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Naturally treating your skin, body and senses™

Strawberry face mask

For a fresh and cooling mask using everyday store cupboard (or fridge) ingredients. Especially good for oily skin due to the astringent and cleansing ingredients. Makes one application.

• 6 strawberries
• 2 tblsp sour cream (or ordinary cream is fine)
• 1 tblsp flour or oatmeal
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 drops Rose or Lavender essential oil (optional)

Mix ingredients together to form a smooth paste. Apply evenly to face and neck. Relax for 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water and finish with a gentle toner and moisturiser. Your skin will fresh and smooth.

Why strawberries are good for you
Strawberries contain ellagic acid, which is a potent antioxidant. Studies have shown that ellagic acid can halt the growth of tumours in the lungs, oesophagus, breast, cervix and the tongue. Studies also show that strawberries reduce the effects of carcinogens in tobacco smoke. (However, this does not mean that you can get away with smoking)! In traditional medicine, strawberries are thought to have antibacterial properties and are used to cleanse and detoxify the digestive system.

Nutritional content
strawberries have a high vitamin C content. Just one serving of them (around 8 fruits) provides 3 times more health benefits than most other fruits. Strawberries contain 10 essential nutrients including zinc, folate and numerous antioxidants, more than is usually found in other foods and 5 of which are not found in any multi-vitamin supplement. They are an ideal fruit to eat for anyone maintaining their health as they boost energy levels, reverse the signs of ageing, aid concentration and help prevent cancer, colds and allergies. It is a myth that bananas provide sustained energy. They are among the fruits with the highest glycaemic load (12). It is better to eat strawberries as they are low in calories and have the lowest glycaemic load of any fruit (the glycaemic load of a large punnet of strawberries is about 1).

Strawberries contain high levels of Quercitin, nature’s cure for hayfever, eczema and asthma. It also helps maintain the health of connective tissues to alleviate bruising and varicose veins. Strawberries contain more vitamin C than any other fruit and only home-grown fruit contains significant amounts. A diet high in vitamin C can half the risk of cancer, prevent colds and infections, and promote healthy, firm skin. So, ensure strawberries are part of your diet for good health and a clear complexion.

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Carrot and honey face mask

With the high vitamin content of carrots, the antiseptic and soothing properties of honey as well as the nourishing and hydrating oils of the avocado fruit, this mask is ideal for all skin types and conditions.

• 1 small to medium sized carrot
• 4 tblsps honey
• 1 small avocado
• 2 tblsps cream or live yoghurt

Steam carrot until tender, leave to cool and mash in a bowl. Remove stone and skin from avocado, mash to a soft pulp and add to carrots. Add the honey and cream or yoghurt and mix well.

Apply in a thick layer to a thoroughly cleansed skin. Relax for 20 minutes and rinse off. Follow with a toner or splash of water and finish with a rich moisturiser. This mask can be kept covered and refrigerated, but should be used within a couple of days.

Nutrition
Carrots are highly nutritious, and a great source of anti-cancer beta-carotene which converts in our bodies as Vitamin A. They are an excellent purifier and may have a detoxifying effect on the liver. With a strengthening effect on red blood cells, carrots improve the complexion, adding tone and elasticity to the skin. They are one of the best vegetables to eat, containing mainly water, vitamins B, C, D and E, potassium and calcium pectate - a pectin fibre that has cholesterol lowering properties.

Avocado is a rich, nutritious fruit from which yields a moisturising and protective oil. They are packed full of protein, vitamins A and B, have a high content of unsaturated triglycerol and fat-soluble Vitamin E. Avocados (fruit and oil) help give the skin a healthy sheen and protect it from dehydration and becoming chapped.

Honey has a long tradition in skin and health care. As a humectant, it attracts and retains moisture. It also acts as an anti-irritant, making it suitable for use on sensitive and baby skin. With proven antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties, it is helpful with wounds, burns, allergic conditions and infections.

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