Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts

Monday, 16 October 2017

The magic of spirulina on your skin!


Spirulina is a dark green algae that grows on the surface of lakes. Here in Kenya, it grows on Lake Victoria, therefore it is readily available in many supermarkets and health food shops. It contains 65 percent protein and is packed with vitamins, iron, amino acids, and omegas, thus, it is extremely nourishing.
The antioxidants found in spirulina are four times the amount found in berries. The rich green colour comes from chlorophyll which helps to eliminate toxins from our body, while also boosting the immune system. This powder can be taken with water, smoothies, or sprinkled on food.

It is highly alkaline therefore it is beneficial when ingested or applied to the skin. It is available in powder, tablet or flake form. Some of the many benefits of spirulina for the skin include:

· Reducing dark circles
· Fights inflammation
· Detoxes the body
· Fights acne with its antibacterial properties
· Anti-aging
· Helps the skin retain moisture
· Encourages cell turnover

The best way to use spirulina topically is by applying a face mask. This mask works for all skin types and is soothing, hydrating and brightens the skin. Spirulina can stain, therefore watch out for any dripping.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon spirulina powder
½ teaspoon raw honey
½ teaspoon water or aloe vera juice

Step 1 - Mix ingredients

Mix all the ingredients together until smooth.

Step 2 - Apply

Apply to a clean face, avoiding the eyes, nostrils and mouth. You can apply with your fingertips or a brush.

Step 3 - Dry

Allow drying for 10 – 15 minutes.

Step 4 - Rinse

Rinse off with warm water.

Step 5 - Moisturise


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Monday, 9 February 2015

5 Myths About Food and your Skin



BY RENEE LOUX
The foods we eat can have a major impact on how we look—and I’m not just talking about how well we fit into our skinny jeans. For a dewy, gorgeous complexion, you’re going to want to watch your intake of certain munchies. But here’s the good news: Not all foods known for wreaking havoc on  your skin actually deserve their bad reputations. And some foods that have stellar health points aren’t always the best for your face. Here, the truth about foods and your skin—and how to keep that gorgeous, glowy look for good. 
MYTH: Chocolate leads to zits and acne
FACT: Not necessarily true. Pure chocolate contains a bevy of skin-beautifying antioxidants and feel-good compounds. However, chocolate that’s loaded with sugar and dairy can trigger a skin freakout.
Takeaway: Indulge in dark chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa and less sugar to treat your skin and body right. And less is more – enjoy a bite or two, not boatload.
MYTH: Fatty foods = ruddy, blotchy skin
FACT: We all know that not all fats are created equal, and it’s especially true when it comes to keeping skin clear and radiant. Nuts and seeds, olive oil and avocado are loaded with skin-beneficial oils and antioxidants like Vitamin E. That heaping plate of fries? Not so much. While saturated fat has been known to make skin angry, experts say that fat is less of a troublemaker for skin than processed foods (especially processed carbs) and sugars.
Takeaway: Opt for plant-based oils in their fresh form, and forgo saturated fat and the processed and fried stuff.
MYTH:  Dairy ALWAYS does a body good
FACT:
 Milk and dairy are a great source of calcium, protein and Vitamin D, right? Yes, but dairy may also be a doozie for your skin. Some skincare experts say that components in milk that are related to testosterone hormones can cause oil glands to go into overdrive, setting the stage for skin upset.
Takeaway: If you’re having trouble with your complexion, try switching to non-dairy options like almond milk, hemp milk and soy milk as a nutrient-rich alternative to dairy. Or try goat and sheep dairy cheeses instead of cow dairy, which some say has less of an effect on skin.
MYTH: Caffeine leads to breakouts
FACT: The claim that caffeine causes acne and breakouts may have more bark than bite. Some experts say it doesn’t directly cause acne, but may aggravate existing conditions. But caffeine has its benefits too. Many caffeine-laden drinks, like coffee and black and green tea, are also loaded with antioxidants that can help defend skin from damage, particularly from the sun.
Takeaway: Drink caffeine in moderation to avoid messing with your beauty sleep (hello, undereye circles), and be sure to drink plenty of water to counteract the dehydrating effects of caffeinated drinks.
MYTH: Natural sweeteners aren’t as bad as refined sugars for the skin
FACT: Sugar is sugar (for the most part). And sugar has inflammatory effects, especially for the skin. Anything that spurs a blood sugar spike causes inflammation and accelerated aging. While some natural sweeteners don’t meddle with blood sugar status quo as much as straight up sugar, the fact is that most things that taste sweet are pretty high on the glycemic index and trigger skin-damaging effects.
Takeaway: Keep sugar (in any form) to a minimum. Opt for natural sweeteners like agave and honey, which are sweeter than sugar so you need less to satisfy your taste buds; or maple syrup, which is loaded with minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds to counter it’s sugary impacts.

Thursday, 5 February 2015

The All-Natural Ritual That Will Save Your Skin

BY LULA BROWN


Our skin is a reflection of our inner ecosystem, so epidermis health ultimately comes from the foods we put in our bodies, the water we drink and the air we breathe. Those three things create the foundation for clear, glowing skin. But sometimes environmental and hormonal factors take a real toll on our skin and we need to give it some special care (especially during these frigid winter months).
As a health coach, I work with clients to heal their brains and bodies so they can step into their full potential, and skin health is a huge part of that. When your skin is healthy, it's a sign that all your organ systems are running smoothly. When you're clear and glowing, you feel confident and amazing things happen in your life.
I rarely follow a schedule unless I have to and consider myself very intuitive, so when I found myself moving through this skin care ritual and saw fantastic results, I knew I had to share it.
The issues:
  • Dry, flakey winter skin
  • Hormonal breakouts along jaw line
  • Clogged pores as a result of living in a major city with exposure to environmental toxins beyond my control
The ritual:
Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it into a large, heat-resistant bowl. Add a few drops of lavender oil or another favorite essential oil. While the water boils, apply coconut oil to your face to remove makeup and debris, then wipe it all off with a clean cloth.
When your skin is cleared of makeup and oil, carefully place your face about six inches from the top of the water and cover your head with a large towel, making sure to position it so the steam from the bowl is somewhat trapped under the towel tent. Steam your pores for 1-3 minutes, breathing slowly and deeply, taking breaks if you need to.
Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Slice a fresh lemon in half and gently rub the flesh all over your face like you would a toner, being careful to avoid your eyes. The acid in the lemon acts as gentle microdermabrasion and is the most important part of this ritual.
Apply a natural clay mask and let sit for 15 minutes. Gently wash the mask off, pat your skin dry and apply coconut oil or another favorite moisturizer.
The results:
  • Clear pores
  • Visibly glowing, firm skin
  • Instant reduction in size and swelling of any blemishes
You don't have to spend a lot of money on products to have the best skin of your life, you just need to take care of it consistently using simple, natural techniques and tools.
What are your favorite skincare rituals and natural products? What are your skin questions and qualms?
Please remember that everyone's skin is different, and you should always consult your dermatologist and/or medical doctor before trying any new routine or product.

Wednesday, 24 December 2014

30 Amazing Benefits Of Moringa Plant For Skin, Hair And Health

by Drew Canole
Drumsticks are an integral part of the delicious sambhar and other South Indian delicacies. It has a unique taste and texture. You would be surprised to know that the drumstick tree or moringa tree is highly beneficial for the human body. Astonishingly all its parts are edible as well.
Drumsticks are an integral part of the delicious sambhar and other South Indian delicacies. It has a unique taste and texture. You would be surprised to know that the drumstick tree or moringa tree is highly beneficial for the human body. Astonishingly all its parts are edible as well.
Let’s delve deep into the secrets of the moringa plant and identify the benefits.
What is the Moringa Tree?
  • The miracle tree Moringa is a multipurpose tree that is native to parts of Africa and Asia. It is also called drumstick tree by the British and Malunggay in Philippines
  • In India, it is found on the foothills of the Himalayan mountains. This plant belongs to the family Moringaceae. It derives its name from the Malayalam word, ‘Muringa’. It is a multipurpose plant and its leaves, pods, fruits, flowers, roots and bark are beneficial in one way or the other.

miracle-tree-moringa
cc licensed ( BY ) flickr photo shared by Trees ForTheFuture
  • The moringa tree grows easily in a semi-arid, tropical and sub-tropical climate and is reported to be beneficial for human beings as its various parts are edible.
  • Some of the most commonly used parts are moringa leaves and seeds. Moringa seeds and roots are used to extract oil and the flowers can be cooked and eaten.
  • Apart from these, its bark, sap, seeds, oil, leaves, roots and flowers are used in making traditional medicine in many countries.

 Health Benefits Of Moringa:
The most amazing thing about Moringa is that all parts of this plant including its bark, roots, leaves, flowers, seeds, sap and pods are a storehouse of nutrients and antioxidants. Thus, this plant possesses innumerable health benefits and has the capacity of curing several diseases. For this reason, it is referred to as the ‘miracle tree’ and is widely used in traditional medicine. The various health benefits of moringa are as follows.
1. The seeds of moringa contain 40 percent edible oil known as Ben oil. This clear, sweet and odourless oil is rich in antioxidants and is similar to olive oil in terms of its nutritional profile.It has an indefinite shelf life as it does not turn rancid like other oils.
2. Moringa leaves are the most widely used parts of this plant. These leaves are edible. They contain three times more iron than spinach.
3. Moringa contains all the essential amino acids needed by the body. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins which are needed to grow, repair and maintain cells. Human body manufactures 10 to 12 amino acids. The remaining 8 amino acids are known as the essential amino acids which should be provided from everyday diet and moringa contains all of them. The list of essential amino acids and their benefits are given below. 
ISOLEUCINEHelps in building protein and enzymes and creation of biochemical components within the body.
LEUCINEBuilds protein and enzymes along with isoleucine to enhance body’s energy and alertness.
LYSINEEnsures the absorption of right amount of calcium by the body and aids in collagen formation and production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. Maintains the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth.
METHEONINEProvides sulphur to the body and prevents hair, skin and nail problems. Lowers cholesterol levels by increasing liver’s production of lecithin. Helps in reducing liver fat and bladder irritation.
PHENYLALAINEProduction of chemicals required to transmit signals between nerve cells and brain, thus reducing hunger pains. It also improves memory.
THREONINEForms an important part of collagen, elastin and enamel proteins. Assists metabolism, prevents fat build up in the liver and boosts digestive and intestinal tracts.
TRYTOHYANSupports the immune system and alleviates insomnia. Reduction of anxiety, depression and migraine symptoms. Decreases the risk of artery and heart spasms as it reduces cholesterol levels along with lysine.
VALINEPromotes a sharp mind, coordinated muscles and calm mood
4. The Moringa leaves help in boosting energy levels in a natural manner, which is long lasting. It is also found to heal ulcers, restrict tumours, reduce arthritis pain and inflammation and control blood pressure.
5. Daily consumption of moringa as part of the diet improves the body’s natural defence mechanism. It is an immune stimulant and it is often prescribed for AIDS afflicted patients.
6. It is rich in vitamin A or beta-carotene and acts as an effective weapon against blindness.
7. It plays an important role in lactating mothers. Consumption of moringa is reported to cause a dramatic increase in breast milk.
8. As it balances the sugar levels, it can be extremely effective against diabetics.
9. Increased consumption of junk food in the present scenario can lead to high cholesterol levels. Moringa helps in balancing the cholesterol levels in the body.
10. Consumption of moringa leaves stimulates metabolism and cell structure of the body.
11. This plant also has several antibacterial properties and hence can be used as a purifier and as a natural detoxifier.
  • Moringa seeds mixed in impure water can help in absorbing all the impurities.
  • Moringa helps in the removal and excretion of toxic build up by attracting toxins from the blood.

12. No side effects of moringa leaves have been reported. Hence, it can be safely consumed by children and adults. Nowadays, it is used in porridge, pasta and bread to increase the nutrient content of meals.
13. Moringa supplements are better than most of the multivitamin and calcium supplements available in the market which uses synthetic ingredients. Moringa supplements are prepared from moringa leaves and pods which are natural sources of calcium and multivitamins. Their processing method increases the availability and absorption of nutrients by the body.
14. Moringa seeds are used in the manufacture of perfumes and aromatherapy oils. The flowers of moringa are used in making herbal tea which contains flavonoids and antioxidants.
cc licensed ( BY ) flickr photo shared by Forest and Kim Starr
cc licensed ( BY ) flickr photo shared by Forest and Kim Starr
15. Due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, moringa supplements facilitate quick healing of minor injuries like bruises, cuts and burns.
16. Roots of moringa are used in traditional medicine to control disorders of the circulatory system, for stimulating appetite and to improve the functioning of the digestive tract. In addition to these, they can treat sexual dysfunctions, female reproductive tract problems and arthritis.
17. According to research, certain elements contained in moringa roots can cure ovarian cancer, kidney stones and inflammations. They improve the overall kidney function by enabling the body to flush out calcium and phosphates from kidneys more efficiently.
Hair Benefits Of Moringa:
Healthy hair improves physical appearance to a great extent. Health problems or nutritional deficiencies can damage the hair and cause problems like dandruff, split ends and breakage. Hence, proper intake of vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids are involved in the formation of keratin protein.
18. Moringa Oleifera has a high content of vitamin A, thus promoting hair growth and maintenance. Optimum delivery of oxygen and nutrients from the circulatory system to the hair follicle is vital for proper hair growth. Vitamin A plays an important role in the development of healthy cells and tissues in the body and reduction of hair loss. Deficiency of vitamin A can cause thickening of scalp, dry hair and dandruff.
19. Moringa plant also contains zinc which stimulates hair growth by enhancing the immune function. Zinc and silica along with vitamin A prevent drying and clogging of the sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are responsible for production of sebum. Deficiency of zinc can lead to atrophy of the hair follicles due to the impairment of DNA and protein synthesis. Zinc also influences the conformation of nucleic acids.
20. Vitamin E in Moringa is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates blood circulation around the scalp. Proper flow of blood to the scalp helps in the absorption of more nutrients available in the hair follicles.
21. Moringa is a storehouse of all the nutrients required for healthy hair. Hair loss occurs due to the deficiency of vitamin B- especially B6, biotin, inositol and folic acid. Proper blood circulation to the scalp enables hair follicles to grow stronger and healthier. Vitamin C together with vitamin E helps in the improvement of blood circulation in the scalp. It is vital to maintain capillaries that carry blood onto the follicles.
22. Moringa contains abundant quantities of minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, selenium, copper and manganese which are essential for healthy hair.
moringa-benefits
Source: >Dolce Bella Organic
23. Moringa oil is a natural supplement for improving the health and strength of hair and scalp. Regular massage with this oil helps in reducing split ends and dandruff. It supplies rejuvenating vitamins and minerals to the hair follicles and tissues of the scalp.
Skin Benefits Of Moringa:
Just like healthy hair, the supply of proper nutrients is vital for the maintenance of healthy skin. Moringa is loaded with nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, B, C, D, E; minerals like copper, iron, zinc, magnesium, silica and manganese. Moringa has moisturizing and nourishing properties and an excellent cleansing ability which makes it an active ingredient in skin care products.
24. Moringa has been found to possess anti-ageing properties. The effect of free radicals on human skin causes the appearance of wrinkles and makes the skin aged and less resistant to lines. Moringa has an excellent cleansing ability which aids in cleaning the skin cells of free radicals and restoring the vitality and youthful complexion of the skin.
25. Moringa leaves contain about 30 antioxidants that contribute greatly towards healthy skin. Moringa oil is highly absorbable and hence helps in delivering these powerful antioxidants to the skin cells.
26. Moringa leaves also contain sulphur. This mineral is present in every single cell of the body and is the key ingredient for Collagen and keratin. Collagen is an elastic substance that gives flexibility and softness to the skin and keratin is a rigid substance which gives the skin rigidity and strength. These two substances form the majority of skin tissue and are made up of proteins constructed from sulphur.
27. The seed extract of moringa herb is popular in the cosmetic industry due to its therapeutic skincare benefits and skin purifying properties. It possesses the ability to filter out impurities that are deeply rooted within the skin and has an amazing detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It enhances the fairness of skin by balancing the natural skin colour and tone. A paste made from moringa leaves beautifies the skin and can be used as a face mask.
28. The ben oil which is extracted from moringa seeds is used to soften and soothe baby’s’ skin.
29. Moringa seed extract is used in protective creams and has the ability to provide protection against cigarette smoke and heavy metal pollution.
30. It is a powerful cleaning agent and moringa seed powder is used as an active ingredient in deep cleansing creams and lotions. It protects the skin from adhering pollution and smog.
Nutritional Value Of Moringa:
The most amazing fact about Moringa is that it is a storehouse of nutrients and medicinal chemicals. The various parts of this plant are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron and protein. It contains a plethora of phytonutrients, eight essential amino acids and other powerful disease-fighting antioxidants. According to the Ayurveda, moringa comprises of around 539 compounds capable of preventing 300 diseases. Moringa contains more than 90 nutrients and 46 different antioxidants which make it a powerhouse of nutrition. The table given below provides a list of the nutritional value of this wonderful plant.
Screen Shot 2014-10-27 at 7.03.53 PM
Source: Moringa Organics
Source: Moringa Organics
 Moringa leaves are a storehouse of nutrients. They contain seven times more potassium than bananas and twice the amount of protein as that contained in milk. Milk is considered to be an important source of calcium, but moringa leaves contain four times more calcium than milk. They contain four times more vitamin A or beta carotene than carrots. Moringa powder which is prepared by grinding the dried leaves of Moringa contains seven times more vitamin C than oranges, 25 times the amount of iron in spinach, 36 times the amount of magnesium in eggs, 50 times more vitamin B3 than peanuts and 50 times more vitamin B2 than bananas.
 Moringa leaves compared to common foods
Values per 100gm. edible portion
Screen Shot 2014-10-27 at 7.07.16 PM
In addition to these nutrients, moringa leaves contain all the essential amino acids needed for growth and development of the body.

Amino Acid Content of Moringa Leaves:

All values are per 100 grams of edible portion.
Fresh Leaves Dried Leaves.
Screen Shot 2014-10-27 at 7.10.35 PMLooking at the benefits of Moringa, it is imperative to include it in our diets and daily regime. With its antioxidant, purifying and detox properties it is the skin’s best friend. Always do a patch test before applying any new product on your skin like ben oil and the paste of moringa leaves. Moringa is an easy and delicious way to reap the benefits.
- See more at: http://fitlife.tv/30-amazing-benefits-of-moringa-plant-for-skin-hair-and-health/#sthash.ZBsBGCeV.dpuf

Tuesday, 4 November 2014

When Your Skin Smells Sandalwood Oil, It Heals Itself

Your nose isn’t the only part of your body capable of taking a whiff.
In the past decade, scientists have discovered olfactory receptors lingering in strange places—in sperm, in the spine, and even in the kidneys. Now researchers in Hanns Hatt’s lab at Germany’s Ruhr University Bochumnm have identified scent receptors somewhere much more accessible: the skin. What’s more, these receptors appear to be involved in healing.
sandalwood-oil
Sandalore, a synthetic sandalwood oil, binds to an olfactory receptor in the skin, prompting the healing process.
Here’s Bob Roeher, writing for New Scientist:
They found that Sandalore—a synthetic sandalwood oil used in aromatherapy, perfumes and skin care products—bound to an olfactory receptor in skin called OR2AT4. Rather than sending a message to the brain, as nose receptors do, the receptor triggered cells to divide and migrate, important processes in repairing damaged skin.
Cell proliferation increased by 32 per cent and cell migration by nearly half when keratinocytes [skin cells] in a test tube and in culture were mixed for five days with Sandalore.
In other words, your skin has the ability to smell, just not in the way we normally think of. Instead, certain odorants target “smelling” receptors in the skin, which prompt the healing process. Of course, just as one nose is different from another, so are the scent receptors in our skin. One person’s genetics might predispose them to greater olfactory sensitivity than another’s.
This discovery is another example of our skin’s unexpected abilities. This week, NOVA Next contributor Sujata Gupta reported on the skin’s ability to “hear” sound. And new findings about our sense of touch, too, have illuminated a possible sensory-social dimension of autism. In the future, we might see a growing number of treatments channeled through the skin, whether they are topical solutions or otherwise.

Tuesday, 21 October 2014

48 Foods To Balance Your Hormones & Give You Glowing Skin

BY MEGAN KELLY 



Who doesn't want a rocking reproductive system, balanced hormones, and glowing skin?

I know I do, and eating certain nutrient dense foods will put anyone on this path. Whether we like it or not, hormones control our mood, digestion, energy, libido, metabolism, and how our skin looks.

If we don't eat foods with the nutrients we need, our body cannot produce hormones correctly or maintain hormonal balance because it doesn't have the building blocks to do so.

Whatever you're eating is either helping hormonal production, or causing unpredictable imbalances.

The human body needs a balance of all three macronutrients, carbohydrates, protein, and especially fat.

Fat is one of the most crucial elements for hormonal balance. For years, we've been told that fat-free is good, while cholesterol and saturated fat are bad. This is a dangerous lie. Healthy fat is the raw material that we need to produce and maintain proper hormone function.

Here's why: hormones are produced using certain fatty acids and cholesterol, so if we're missing these nutrients, hormone problems arise simply because the body doesn't have the nutrients it needs to make them. Our body needs certain fats for rebuilding cells and stabilizing hormones. This is especially important for the female reproductive system.

How to eat for hormonal balance

Basing meals off clean protein, hormone-balancing healthy fats, antioxidant-rich vegetables, and healing herbs will help your body thrive. Choose one food from each category for an easy, hormone balancing, skin healing, meal.

1. Clean protein

Soaked or sprouted nuts
Beans
Seeds
Quinoa
Lentils
Organic pasture-raised/grass-fed chicken, turkey, beef, bison, elk, pasture-raised eggs
Wild caught fish

2. Hormone-balancing healthy fats

Coconut oil (and all coconut products for that matter). It contains lauric acid, which is incredibly healing to the skin and extremely beneficial for hormonal production. It also kills bad bacteria and viruses in the body, provides a quick source of energy, is easy to digest, and speeds up metabolism.

Avocados. They're rich in healthy fat that helps our body absorb and use nutrients They are also full of fiber, potassium, magnesium vitamin E, B-vitamins, and Folic acid - all essential for maintaining hormonal balance in the body.

Raw butter/ghee. They provide a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K2. These nutrients are key building blocks for hormonal production. Butter provides great amounts of short- and medium-chain fatty acids, which support immune function, boost metabolism and have anti-microbial properties; meaning, they fight against bad bacteria and viruses in the body.

Egg yolks. They're rich in countless vitamins and minerals including: A, D, E, B2, B6, B9, iron, calcium, phosphorous, potassium and choline which all contribute to a healthy reproductive system, hormonal balance, and healthy skin. The choline and iodine in egg yolks are also crucial for making healthy thyroid hormones.

Nuts and seeds. Soaked nuts and seeds, olives and olive oil, fermented cod liver oil, hemp seed oil, flax-seed oil, and raw cultured dairy products.

3. Antioxidant-rich vegetables

Look for anything dark green: asparagus, broccoli, spinach, collard greens, cabbage, cucumbers, kale, cilantro, etc.

Opt for brightly colored veggies: green, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, red cabbage, red/white onions, tomatoes, and carrots.

Don't overlook starchy vegetables: sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash, yucca, beets, artichokes, butternut squash, and turnips.

4. Healing spices & herbs

Cinnamon
Turmeric
Cayenne
Cumin
Garlic
Ginger

If your body has the nutrients it needs to be in hormonal balance, it will be. You'll experience glowing skin, stable moods, fertility, and consistent energy. Our bodies have an incredible ability to heal and be in balance, when given the nutrients they need to flourish.
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-11983/48-foods-to-balance-your-hormones-give-you-glowing-skin.html