Edible Beauty

Who can resist the rainbow array of fruits at the market? Rich pink watermelon and raspberries, shiny bright oranges, polished yellow lemons, plump green grapes and sapphire blueberries, it is truly amazing that these enticing fruits are not only naturally delicious, but also bring beauty benefits by the barrel-load.

There are few greater-tasting pleasures than fresh, organic strawberries on a warm summer day. Strawberries have been used traditionally to soothe sunburn and to moisturize the skin. Eat one cup of strawberries and they will nourish your body with iron, calcium, vitamin A, riboflavin and 90 milligrams of vitamin C, 262 mg of potassium and 92 micrograms of vitamin B6.

Papaya is another fruit powerhouse that contains vitamins A, C and E and the enzyme papain. This enzyme softens the skin cells, making it an excellent ingredient in exfoliants.

The citrus family (lemons, oranges and grapefruit) are used in natural cosmetics as antioxidants due to their high vitamin A, C and E content. Lemons have a mild bleaching effect on the skin and hair, but use with caution as the acidic effect of lemon juice can cause irritation.

Neroli and petitgrain oils from the blossoms and leaves of the orange tree are used as natural fragrances in soaps and lotions. Grapefruit oil is also used as a natural fragrance in cosmetics, but grapefruit is also important to the natural cosmetic industry for the preservative properties of grapefruit seed oil.

Juniper oil is a popular ingredient in skin creams and lotions, soaps and perfumes. It is beneficial in treating acne and other skin problems. A tincture of juniper berries is an excellent homemade skin toning lotion.

The first ingredients used in cosmetics were fruits and herbs, milk and yogurt. Not only the flesh of the fruits but also the seeds and seed kernels.

Apricot kernel oil is included in formulas for creams and lotions for its softening action on the skin. Ground apricot kernels are often included in face scrubs and facial masks. They leave the skin soft, glowing and moisturized.

There are many tasty ways to make yourself feel happy and healthy with beauty treatments that are good enough to eat. Try any one of these delicious treatments for yourself, and you will be an edible beauty convert.

Green Tea Skin Tonic - This tonic is simple, and it cleanses, tones, and smoothes the skin. It works well to give aging and tired skin a lift. Mix 2 teaspoons of powdered green tea with ½ cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes, and allow to cool. Apply to face with cotton or gauze. Use daily for fresh tea treated skin.

Tomato Facial Tomatoes - are astringent, and this treatment fights against black heads. Apply tomato slices or a mashed tomato directly to your face. Leave on for 15 minutes, and rinse with cool water.

Carrot and Avocado Hydrating Cream Mask - using this treatment regularly will diminish age spots, improve the texture of the skin, and rebuild collagen. Combine 1/2 cup of heavy cream with 1 cooked and mashed carrot, 1 avocado (peeled, pitted, and mashed), and 3 tablespoons of honey in a bowl. Spread the mixture over your face and neck. Relax for 15 minutes, and rinse with cool water.

Thyme and Fennel Seed Cleanser - Fennel seeds are a gentle skin cleanser that tones the skin and helps reduce puffiness and irritation. Thyme is a mild astringent. This cleanser is so gentle that it can be used every morning, and is a great choice for sensitive skin. To prepare, crush 2 sprigs of fresh thyme and 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds. Mix them together in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Add the juice of half a lemon and let the mixture steep for about 15 minutes. Strain, and store in a jar in the refrigerator. Apply with cotton balls.

If you have the time, you should try to make a spa day of it. These treatments are not only good for your beauty regimen, they’re fun to concoct. Invite a friend and bask in all that nature has provided us. And the best part is, it’ll cost you a fraction of the price of anything else you’ve ever tried. Enjoy their fragrance and beauty, and luxuriate in the fruits of nature.