THIS week I am sharing more natural foods and herbs with you, some of which may be found right at home. Our gardens and kitchen cupboards can be a storehouse of amazing natural ingredients that, when crushed, chopped, steeped, or used as is, can make the most effective treatments for the hair, skin and body.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary is a really multi-purpose herb that can be used for things from asthma to mopping floors.

As a beauty aid, rosemary is great for the hair and makes a great hair and scalp rinse. Steep the rosemary in hot/boiled water and let it cool before using. It does not only strengthen the hair, but it also helps to restore natural hair colour, grow the hair and relieve dandruff. It can be massaged into the hair and scalp daily until desired results are achieved.

Boiled rosemary leaves and flowers can be used as a face wash that can help to reduce wrinkles and premature aging.

ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is a very powerful herb that promotes healing for several skin conditions. It can be used to relieve sunburn, insect bites and skin irritations. It can also be applied to even out skin tone, reduce wrinkles and give you soft, glowing skin.

Aloe vera is great for treating burns when applied immediately, to heal and prevent scarring. The raw gel has been used for centuries in the treatment of burn patients. It will also help to prevent blistering and discoloration as a result.

Used in the hair, aloe vera will nourish hair and scalp, stimulate hair growth and kill bacteria linked to scalp problems.

CASTOR OIL

Castor oil has many great external and internal health and beauty benefits. It can be used to revive tired eyes (dark circles). Just apply a little around the eye area at night, let it soak in during sleep hours and wake up to refreshed eyes.

Warmed and massaged into the hair, it will strengthen/condition the hair and help to eliminate dandruff, lice and fleas. It is reputed to darken the hair when mixed with olive oil.

Castor oil can also be applied directly to the skin for a healthy glow. It helps to prevent premature ageing by improving the skin’s elasticity, and can help to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.

SEA SALT

Sea salt is very well known and used all over the world for its powerful cleansing and healing properties. A wonderful solution for tired feet is warm salt water. This will help to soothe and relax your feet and bring back the bounce in your step.

As a body scrub, sea salt used sparingly and lightly can help to exfoliate dead skin cells and leave the skin smooth and supple.

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.