Fitness trainer claims soaked gond katira helps treat pimples; expert weighs in

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes on the skin. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments available for acne, some people turn to natural remedies like gond katira as an alternative or complementary approach.

Gond katira, also known as edible gum or tragacanth gum, is a natural resin obtained from the sap of several species of Middle Eastern legumes. “This substance has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for its potential health benefits. One of the purported benefits of gond katira is its effect on skin health, particularly in treating conditions like acne or pimples,” said clinical dietitian Garima Goyal.

Is gond katira effective?

One of its key characteristics is its ability to absorb water and swell, forming a gel-like substance when mixed with liquid. “This gel is thought to have cooling and soothing properties, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with acne,” said Goyal.

Additionally, gond katira contains compounds known as polysaccharides, which have been studied for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, added Goyal. “These properties could contribute to its ability to alleviate symptoms of acne and promote overall skin health,” said Goyal.

Consuming Gond Katira is ideal for extreme summer heat (Source: Getty/ Thinkstock)

Are these effective remedies?

When combined with other ingredients like curd or mint and black salt in water, Goyal said that gond katira may enhance its effectiveness against pimples. “Curd, for example, contains lactic acid, which has exfoliating properties that can help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. Mint is known for its cooling sensation and antibacterial properties, which could help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Black salt, meanwhile, contains minerals like magnesium and potassium, which may nourish the skin and promote its health,” said Goyal.

While gond katira and its preparations are generally considered safe for topical use and consumption, it’s essential to remember that individual responses may vary. “What works for one person may not necessarily work for another, and some people may experience allergic reactions or other adverse effects. It’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before applying any new substance to the skin and to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist if you have any concerns,” said Goyal.

It is better to do a patch test by applying these ingredients on the skin for at least 30 minutes to check for any signs of redness, inflammation, burning, and stinging sensation, stressed Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist and cosmetologist, Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic. “In case, these signs and symptoms are seen then discontinue the usage of these ingredients and consult the doctor without any delay. Don’t just blindly follow any trend on social media as it may work for someone but may go down well with others. Exercise caution before using any ingredients on your skin and don’t forget to consult the doctor,” said Dr Chause.

Dr Vandana Punjabi, dermatologist and trichologist at Khar, and Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital said that there is no scientific evidence to prove its usefulness and has absolutely no role in the treatment of acne or pimples. “Acne is a multi-factorial disease and seeking the correct treatment from your dermatologist will not only improve your skin health and boost self-confidence but also prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring,” said Dr Punjabi.

 

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In addition to using natural remedies like gond katira, maintaining a healthy skincare routine is essential for managing pimples. “This includes gentle cleansing, exfoliation, moisturising, and protecting the skin from sun damage. In more severe cases, prescription medications or professional treatments may be necessary to achieve clear skin,” Goyal added.