Spice up your life

BY RHONDA ALLISON


Spices are so commonly used to punch up recipes and provide a natural way to heal many internal ailments, but what are their effects on the skin?

Do they reap the same benefits?


Yes! Most spices are power-packed with antioxidant, antiseptic and detoxifying abilities and chances are if an ingredient is good for the internal body, the same holds true for the largest living organ – the skin.

By spicing up your skin care routine you can achieve glowing, healthy skin. Look to cinnamon, clove, turmeric and paprika, to name a few, not only for their inviting aroma but also for their warming, stimulating and rejuvenating properties.

SPICE AND EVERYTHING NICE
Like many natural ingredients, spices are power-packed with antioxidants and come with a bevy of skin benefits, not to mention delicious and soothing aroma (particularly of the cinnamon and clove) they have. Here’s a snapshot of how each of these works:

BELL PEPPERS OR CHILI PEPPERS
Paprika capsicum annum stimulates and detoxifies cells, and revitalizes and oxygenates the skin. Paprika is made from the grinding of dried bell peppers or chili peppers and is high in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Look for clove and cinnamon in Grape Seed Hydrating Serum, Grape Seed Parfait Mask and the Pumpkin Parfait Enzyme. Turmeric, since it has protective qualities, is used in our eZinc Protection Cream and EnviroProtect. We also use paprika in our Honey Paprika Mask. Try to work these potent spices into your skin care regimen for a glowing complexion. These will also help maintain hydration and circulation all year long.

CLOVE LEAF OIL
Eugenia caryophyllus primarily used as a natural anesthetic and antiseptic stimulant, clove has been cultivated the world over for more than 2,000 years. The oil has long been used in Chinese medicine for detoxification and to stimulate the circulatory system. Its aroma also helps to stimulate the mind.

TUMERIC
Tetrahydrodiferuloy-methane, or Tumeric, is a relative of the ginger root. It is a potent golden spice that provides shielding and healing properties. It protects against damaging environmental elements (UV rays, chemicals, microbes, and other free radicals), and aids in the treatment of acne, hyperpigmentation and eczema, as well as slowing the aging process.

CINNAMON LEAF OIL
Cinnamomum cassia, with its spicy, awakening fragrance, cinnamon oil is primarily used in skin care preparations for its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, as well as its stimulating effects. It is the terpenoids found in the oil believed to promote a glowing, healthy complexion. It also contains phenolic compounds, flavonoid derivatives, and its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties work to tighten and lift the skin.

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