This is the first in a two-part feature of caring for your body and skin naturally.

TODAY’S super-busy and stressful lifestyles can take a huge toll on our faces and bodies. Synthetic foods, chemical drugs and cosmetics also contribute to this.

However, the age-old holistic approach to food and body care is now in its revival. More and more people across the globe want to live more simply, breathe fresh, clean air, and eat fresh organic foods as much as possible. There is a growing consciousness about the dangers of synthetic products and the effects they have on our bodies. Sadly, there are still those who think that ‘bleaching’ and ‘toning’ bring about a more attractive and desirable appearance.

I now shine the spotlight on beauty and body care, the natural way. From time immemorial, natural herbs, spices and foods have played a huge part in healing, pampering, skin care, and relaxation techniques. It is said that Cleopatra soaked herself in milk and used aloe vera on her face to maintain her ‘glow’ and vitality. You too can try some of these basic methods for natural skin and body care. The results may not be immediate, but be patient and take pride in knowing that the use of naturally grown ingredients is definitely going to contribute towards your good health.

WHERE SHOULD YOU START?

Start with avoiding chemical-based cosmetics altogether, or as much as possible. Look at all the chemical-based products you use and find substitutes. Beauty starts from the inside out. Buy lots of green, leafy vegetables and use them to make delicious salads, juices and/or smoothies. These are loaded with vital nutrients, fibre, chlorophyll, and life force energy that will help to clean and alkalise the blood. The lower the toxic load in the bloodstream the more energy we’ll have with better skin.

FOODS FOR BEAUTY

The best thing about these foods and treatments is that they have no side effects and certainly no damaging effects. However, natural ingredients have a short lifespan, so you’ll need to make and use them right away.

BANANAS

Bananas are not only great for consumption but are also very nourishing for the skin. They make a great face mask, as they tighten and soften the skin.

Bananas also cleanse the pores and help to clear blemishes. Just mash one banana (ripe) and add the juice of half a lemon. Place this mixture in the fridge for 10 minutes and then apply all over the face. Leave on for approximately 30 minutes and then wash off. This treatment can be used on all skin types.

AVOCADO AND HONEY

Avocados contain vitamins A, D and E and the minerals sulphur and potassium, which are great for nourishing dry and damaged skin. Honey is one of nature’s finest moisturisers and a treat for the skin. It has cleansing and soothing properties, whilst helping to soften skin and cause lines and wrinkles to fade.

Combine (mash) one ripe avocado, one teaspoon of honey, one oz of oats, and one tablespoon of coconut oil to make an exfoliating body scrub. This naturally simple recipe will bring life and glow to dull, dry skin. Just try not to eat it all when applying it!

PAPAYA

This enzyme-rich fruit is helpful for cleansing and softening the skin. It has a deep cleansing effect by breaking down dead skin cells. It is excellent for oily/greasy skin; the versatile seeds can be crushed and applied to help clear blemishes. Papaya pulp can be refrigerated for 15 minutes then applied to the face and neck for 20 minutes. Eaten regularly, papaya is great for the colon and keeping you regular, and will also help to keep the skin and eyes clear.

LETTUCE

Try this leafy, green vegetable to help soothe sunburn and rough skin. Soak a head of lettuce in 500ml of water overnight and apply over the affected areas. It will also help to cool and soothe soreness, especially when applied to the breasts of nursing mothers with sore nipples.

PARSLEY

I love this one. Highly underestimated, this herb is very valuable. There are many varieties of parsley and all have similar properties. Fresh parsley placed over the eyes will help to remove puffiness and dark bags/circles around them. Used as a hair rinse, it brings a natural shine and softens the hair. A few fresh sprigs of parsley eaten after lunch or dinner help to freshen breath and eliminate the odour of garlic and onions.

Bena Nakawuki is an internationally trained and certified raw food teacher, wellness coach and editor. She is currently the only certified member of the International Association of Raw Food Coaches and Teachers in Jamaica and an ambassador for the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship Caribbean. Bena is the owner of The Lotus Line and may be contacted at TheLotusLine@gmail.com, www.facebook.com — The Lotus Line of Natural Health Products and Services, and twitter.com/TheLotusLine.