Avocados
are rich in taste
and nutrition and one of nature's most nutrient-dense foods. They're
cholesterol-free,
sodium-free, low in saturated fat and loaded with dietary fiber,
vitamins
B6, C, E and potassium. Avocados also contain lutein
and phytochemicals
which are natural plant nutrients that help protect against a variety
of
cancers and diseases. Avocado is high in fat,
but fat in avocados is the healthful, monounsaturated variety, shown to
reduce cholesterol levels and helps to decrease the risk of heart
disease
and stroke and one more reason to enjoy healthy avocados, on a daily
basis!
Not only are avocados a source of good
nutrition, but they're also
good for your skin. So, it's not surprising that
avocados are being used to develop various new healthy skin and hair
care products.
Researchers have found that avocado oil penetrates the
skin quickly. Skin most needed vitamins A, C, and E, found
in avocados, are in a rare water-soluable form. Research has show that
vitamins A, C, and E reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. As
a result, cosmetic companies around the world are exploring the use of
avocados in skin enhancement products. Avocados are also rich in the
antioxidants,
vitamin E and glutathione that prevent damage from free radicals and
have
the ability to stimulate collagen rebuilding.
Treat yourself to a
relaxing facial or a refreshing body scrub with
avocados. These avocado recipes are easy to make and try at home.
*
Facial
masque for oily skin - Blend the pulp of 1/2 of a ripe avocado,
one egg white, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
Apply the masque immediately on a freshly washed face and neck. Lie
back with your
head elevated for 30 minutes. Gently remove the masque with warm water
using a
face cloth. Pat dry and finish with your favourite skin toner and
moisturizer.
*
Facial masque
for dry skin - Blend the pulp of
one ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1/4 cup of milk until
smooth. Apply the masque immediately on a freshly washed face and neck.
Lie back with
your head elevated for 30 minutes. Gently remove the masque with warm
water using
a face cloth. Pat dry and finish with your favourite skin toner and
moisturizer.
*
Body Scrub
- Mash the pulp of 1/2 ripe
avocado with half cup of cornmeal. After cleansing face and body,
apply the mixture and gently rub for a few minutes. Rinse with warm
water
using a washcloth. Finish by splashing on skin toner and moisturizer.
This scrub is the best for oily skin.
*
Hair and Scalp
Pack - Mash the pulp of 1 ripe
avocado and mix well with juice from 1/2 lemon. Wash and thoroughly
wet hair with warm water. Rub avocado mixture into hair and scalp while
still warm. This will help the natural oil from the avocado to
penetrate
more easily. Cover with a shower cap and wait 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse
hair and
shampoo as usual.
*
Eye Treatment
- Peel and slice an avocado into quarter inch crescents. Place
under eyes and lie down for 25 to 30 minutes.
Best for correcting under-eye
puffiness.
