Your appearance reflects your inner radiance, and I'm here to assist you in illuminating that glow with herbal remedies and guidance on cultivating healthy habits for radiant skin.
When stress takes its toll, the sympathetic nervous system releases cortisol and adrenaline, wreaking havoc on your skin:
Excess cortisol boosts oil production, clogs pores, and invites free radical damage, paving the way for acne.
Adrenaline surges, often stemming from overwhelming stress, trigger abnormal cortisol spikes, leading to brain hyperactivity and eventual organ impact, including the skin. This can manifest as acne, dullness, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and premature aging.
Numerous studies confirm what ancient wisdom has long observed: stress and skin health are deeply intertwined. The "Brain-Skin Connection" underscores the crucial role of inner equilibrium in maintaining outer beauty, a facet often overlooked in skincare discussions. Your skin not only quickly detects stress but also shields against external toxins while striving to balance internal and external environments.
Sensory signals from the environment travel through the spinal cord to the brain, which orchestrates responses affecting skin stress levels. Neuroinflammatory conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and itching can flare up due to stress.
Using these herbs we support our nervous system in safeguarding our skin:
SCHISANDRA (Schisandra chinensis)
Origin: Originally from northern and northeastern China, also cultivated in Korea and China.
Used for: Reducing inflammation, aiding in stress management, promoting hormonal balance, and supporting liver function, which can improve hormonal acne.
LEMON BALM (Melissa officinalis)
Origin: Native to the Middle East and North Africa, introduced to Europe in the 1500s.
Used for: Soothing the nervous system and promoting calmness. Lemon balm is rich in antioxidants, fighting against free radicals that contribute to premature aging.
CHAMOMILE (Matricaria chamomilla)
Origin: Native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, now also cultivated in North America.
Used for: Enhancing cell and tissue renewal. Chamomile's calming effects on the nerves and stomach can alleviate skin issues like redness and irritation, imparting a youthful glow.
HOLY BASIL / TULSI (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Origin: Originally from north-central India, now grown in tropical regions worldwide.
Used for: Regulating blood sugar and as an adaptogenic herb. Balanced blood sugar levels help keep cortisol levels in check, promoting clear and radiant skin. Tulsi's linolenic acid also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in acne management.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)
Origin: Indigenous to the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and India.
Used for: Calming both the mind and the skin, exerting soothing effects from the inner nervous system to the outer pores. Lavender's ability to induce inner calmness can reflect outwardly, positively impacting the skin.
You can drink these plant remedies as tea, preferably in the evenings, and use cotton disks to clear your face before make-up application and night routine, but for best results I use concentrated herbal extracts in tincture form for my clients. Connect with me for a free 15 minute consultation to discuss what treatment best suits your skin.
"Forget inspiration. Habit is more dependable. Habit will sustain you whether you’re inspired or not." Octavia Butler
Scientific research has uncovered the significance of cultivating healthy habits for longevity. While we often hear about the importance of staying hydrated, eating nutritiously well, getting sufficient sleep, and exercising regularly for overall wellness, these habits also play a crucial role in maintaining the health and radiance of our skin. So, what are some habits that can give you tangible results in short amount of time?
Here are five tried-and-tested tips to rely on when motivation wanes and fatigue sets in:
Stay Hydrated: Make it a habit to drink enough water daily to keep your skin hydrated and radiant. Pure filtered water supports detox from the inside out. Many Eastern practices, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, advocate for warm or hot beverages throughout the day. Drinking warm water can relax muscles and boost blood flow to nourish skin cells, while bathing in warm water can promote relaxation and softer skin. Explore our medicinal bath guide or try a blue moon milk bath for less stress, increased moisture, and better sleep.
Nourish Your Body: Prioritize nutritious meals rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support skin health from within. "Eat the rainbow" having colorful food on your plate each time. Opt for moist, oily, and nourishing options to lubricate your tissues and avoid skin dryness. Soups, stews, berries, avocado, and coconut are excellent choices this season. Additionally, stock up on warming spices like turmeric, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon to enhance your dishes.
Prioritize Rest: Ensure you get adequate sleep each night to allow your body and skin to rejuvenate. Remember those hormones cortisol and adrenaline? We want to drop them down in order to get radiant skin. Set a deadline to turn off all screens at least 30-60 minutes before bed.
Stay Active: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to promote circulation and a healthy glow. Movement encourages your lymph system to move toxins out of the body quicker. Try incorporating a mindful outdoor movement practice, like barefoot walking in nature. This practice can enhance sleep, boost antioxidants, and reduce inflammation. Research also suggests that mindfulness practices contribute to reduced distress and improved quality of life, essential for maintaining healthy skin.
Consistent Skincare: Establish a daily skincare regimen tailored to your skin type and needs, including cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Look for the plants discussed above on the ingredients list of your skin care products, they can work well topically too, reducing itchiness, redness and heat.
The key is to start implementing these habits now and commit to them consistently.
Use visual reminders like sticky notes in your bathroom or kitchen to reinforce your commitment and encourage self-care. Remember, small, consistent steps can lead to significant improvements in your skin health and overall wellbeing.