The secrets to radiantly beautiful skin seem to be hidden in some of the most deceptive ingredients in our homes that are now known to be superfoods. Sprouts, nuts and legumes are now recognized as pods of eternal radiance and many of our everyday spices are worshipped for their age reversing benefits. Little surprise then, that Ayurveda has always emphasised on the medicinal properties of food and its harmonious effects on our spiritual and physical existence. Let’s discover these precious & traditional beauty secrets from the lap of nature that are sitting pretty on our kitchen shelves.
CITRUS FRUITS
These are the vitamin C boosters we all need. They enhance immunity and flush toxins from our body as well as help soothe inflammation, sun burns and dark spots. Citrus fruits like Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons, Limes and Tangerines fight pigmentation and promote even skin-tone. They naturally hydrate the skin, fight dryness and dullness. If there is a Skin-Food that should top your snack counter, it has to be this juicy wonder from this family of fruits.
TURMERIC
If we apply this on our skin, it’s bound to bloom. And adding it to our food can reverse the ageing of our skin and leave it glowing like eternal Sunshine. Why? Turmeric produces Curcumin, an antioxidant that promotes blood circulation. It fights wrinkles, stimulates skin elasticity and smoothens out fine lines. Widely used in Indian food, Turmeric is now known as the golden miracle in the west too and Turmeric shakes are much in vogue. In fact cold pressed Turmeric juice added to cashew or coconut milk is now served as ‘Golden Milk’ or Turmeric Latte in many cafes across the world and enjoys a serious cult following.
HONEY
Hand picked by bees from the most delicate of flowers, Honey is a super Skin-Food. Adding Honey to our meal bowls can help fight acne as it is naturally antibacterial. Its moisturising properties keep our skin well hydrated and soft. And it is a rich source of antioxidants which helps fight wrinkles, spots, dull skin and uneven skin-tone. Naturally, Honey is fast replacing sugar in DIY face masks and as well as our favourite dishes.
WALNUTS
This is a happiness-inducing stress buster of a nut. Walnuts are literally overflowing with mood enhancing Vitamin B and Vitamin E. These vitamins come together with Omega-3 to regenerate and rejuvenate our skin. Also, being happy delays skin-ageing, and leaves our skin bright and glimmering.
CINNAMON
Cinnamon detoxifies the body from within and puts the glow back on our face. This is why since centuries, Cinnamon is used in our food to stimulate blood circulation and purification. It has antifungal, antibacterial properties that keep acne and other skin allergies at bay. And it is considered to be a powerful antioxidant that is credited with bringing the nutrients directly to the skin, enhancing our complexion and radiance. Adding this sweet fragrant spice to our everyday diet can also make for an effortless beauty regimen.
BASIL
This leafy wonder is a Skin food recommended especially by all Ayurvedic practitioners. A cup of Basil or Tulsi tea early in the morning, is a beauty regimen that adds freshness to the skin. Packed with vitamins and minerals, Basil enhances our complexion and spreads a healthy and even glow. With its herbaceous green flavour and aroma as well as its purifying properties, if there is a lesser known Skin-Food that deserves adulation in the beauty world, it is Basil.
The quest for flawless and beautiful skin often lead us back into the lap of Ayurveda and righty so. While skin superfoods may be in vogue now, Ayurveda has always taught us about the importance of what we eat and how it reflects on our external appearance. And now years of modern research and practice have proved that eating right and using the purest of natural ingredients are quintessential to beauty and health. Adding a good dose of these superfoods into your everyday routine could be the difference between tired, listless skin and a clear and glowing complexion.