As Easy as ABC

Here’s one trick from each letter of the alphabet to keep you healthy and happy.

You might have the most enviable wardrobe in the world but nothing can beat a glowing skin and a fit body. The good news is that it does not make a hole in your pocket to get a flawless skin and unbeatable fitness level to go with your Chanel dress. Instead of taking a beat trying to change your lifestyle, just include some good habits, avoid bad ones, pop necessary supplements, include serums and tonics in your skincare regime, and shake a leg at a dance class. Life is all about beating bad with good. Be a warrior.

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A for ashwagandha

Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng is a plant whose roots are used for making medicines. Besides being applied topically to treat wounds, this adaptogen is good for consumption as it helps our bodies fight stress. The chemicals in it help calm down the brain, reduce swelling or inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve the immune system.

B for berries

Berries are small fruits that are great for morning smoothies. These colourful fruits are high in antioxidants and polyphenol that can kick start your day with energy. Mix a good amount of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, redcurrants, white currants and blackcurrants in your smoothie and feel energetic the whole day.

C for chamomile

Chamomile is a herb popular for its relaxant properties. Tea with chamomile flowers can help you get out of din and chaos. It is very helpful in alleviating stomach ache, mouth sores and anxiety. It is also said to induce sleep as it is good for the nervous system.

D for vitamin D

This sunshine vitamin is a must for us. For strong and healthy bones, one can get vitamin D from exposure to the sun, or through a glassful of milk or any of its products. For those who are lactose intolerant, there are reliable supplements available.

E for electrolytes

Electrolytes are chemicals that conduct electricity when mixed with water. They are important for our nerves to function properly. The muscles and neurons of our body need electrolytes such as calcium, sodium and potassium to avoid cramps. Coconut water is an excellent source.

F for fruit facial

Fruit facial is not something you can get done only at a salon. Eat an orange and save its skin. Make a paste by mixing it with rose water and honey. Apply on the face and neck for 15 minutes and get a fresh looking skin. You can also use banana, tomato, papaya, grapes and apple.

G for green shakes

Green shakes are nature’s energy booster. Make some juices and smoothies with spinach, cucumber, celery, kale or mix all of them together. Add some berries, ginger and squeeze half a lemon for taste. It will also keep your skin glowing and hydrated all day long.

H for hair masks

Hair needs a lot of care and pamper. Don’t splurge on expensive professional hair treatments. Make DIY masks at home. For example, mix egg yolk, two tablespoons of coconut oil and a tablespoon of honey. Leave it on for an hour and follow it with a shampoo. The shine will be back.

I for ivy extract

Ivy extract is used as an ingredient in massage creams and is known to smoothen and soften the skin. It also relieves the skin from itchiness due to its antibacterial properties.

J for jatamansi

Jatamansi is an ayurvedic herb found in the Himalayas used to cure skin infections. Prepare a decoction mixing jatamansi powder with cold water and apply it on the affected part of the skin to reduce burning sensations and inflammation.

K for kefir

Kefir is a fermented milk based drink, which is extremely beneficial for the intestines. It is helpful in cases of indigestion, upset stomach, constipation, lactose intolerance, and diarrhea caused by the use of antibiotics. It is considered better than the good old curd.

L for licorice

Licorice is a herb used for treating skin related problems. It is suited for topical application. If you have itchy skin or eczema, licorice is your go to tool to fix it. Apply two to three times a day for about 15 days to see a visible reduction in redness, swelling, and itching.

M for minerals

Minerals or trace minerals are needed by our bodies to prevent hair fall, nail breakage and skin eruptions. But trace minerals are hardly available in the food we take, as chemicals and pesticides have depleted them from the soil and water systems. Take mineral supplements such as Dr Berg’s.

N for nuts

Nuts are small wonders. Eat a mix of almonds, cashewnuts, peanuts, Brazil nuts, walnuts, pistachios and hazelnuts to have a glowing skin. These are nutrient dense, small sized nuggets that are rich in protein, healthy unsaturated fats, fibre, vitamin E and B, folate, phosphorous, magnesium, and potassium.

O for oils

Oils cannot only be applied on the skin but cold pressed oils can be consumed too. Coconut oil is good for hair, whereas jojoba can be used on skin. A dash of extra virgin olive oil on your salad is very healthy. Lavender oil is soothing and induces sleep when applied on the scalp.

P for power yoga

Power yoga not only helps in weight loss but also makes you stronger. The intense workout and quick moves will make you sweat. It also helps in learning balancing act, thanks to its techniques such as lifting your own body weight.

Q for quinoa

Quinoa seeds are a marvel. The Incas called it ‘the mother of all grains.’ It contains manganese, magnesium, folate, copper, potassium, zinc and iron. It also makes for a high fibre, gluten free diet.

R for red wine

A glass of red wine is what every doctor proposes. When taken in moderation for about three days a week, the resveratrol from grape skin makes the heart stronger, boosts immunity and fights cold.

S for seaweed

Seaweed is replete with antioxidants and consists of hydrating properties, the go-to beauty ritual for Japanese. Mix seaweed powder with two spoons of olive oil and warm water. Apply it on your face for 15 minutes to get a glowing skin.

T for turmeric

While the West is going gaga over turmeric latte, Indians have been consuming it in every form, in food or mixed with milk. It has anti-bacterial and anti-cancerous properties. If applied on the skin, it heals. Add turmeric powder in lemon water to drink on empty stomach in the morning or drink at night mixed with warm milk.

U for ubtan

Ubtan is a time tested method that helps to exfoliate and make the skin smooth. Mix it with Bengal gram flour, curd, honey and turmeric and use it as a daily beauty ritual for a clearer skin. You can also use milk, sandalwood paste, wheatgerm oil, and chickpea flour.

V for vitamin E

Vitamin E or tocopherol functions basically as an antioxidant, which means it helps protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules or free radicals. Pop Vitamin E pills for better effect.

W for white sage

White sage is a herb that has been in use during rituals and ceremonies for centuries. Sage smudging is an ancient technique to cleanse people or spaces of negative energy and to seek blessings of health, prosperity, and protection.

X for xylitol

Xylitol is part of a group of natural sugar substitutes. Since it is not absorbed completely by our bodies, it does not impact our skin as much as sugar, causing less skin eruptions. This sweetener is same on the palate, but less harmful.

Y for yarrow

Yarrow is a herb used to unclog pores. You can apply it to tighten pores and prevent sagging. Its astringent properties and pH level can heal acne. Yarrow tea can be used to rinse hair if you have dry or itchy scalp.

Z for Zumba

Zumba is a form of dance exercise. The aerobics cuts out the monotony and lightens you up. It will not only help you burn calories faster but also make the skin glow.

From the December 2020 issue of L’Officiel India.