Crunch time at work? The kids have you running 24/7? Does your new neighbor like to party until the early dawn? Whatever the reason for your dark circles, rest assured that nature’s provided an answer. The five herbs that follow all contain powerful anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and restorative elements to mask your exhaustion and invigorate your skin and mind.
Lavender
It’s not just for perfumes and aromatherapy anymore. Used in World War II as a surface antiseptic and worldwide to treat skin burns and inflammation, lavender’s health benefits are manifold. Diffused in the air, it promotes sleep and relaxation and lavender can be used externally to sooth and heal insect bites and acne. Lavender has also been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, reducing that puffiness from a night of tossing and turning. Try this trick when fighting fatigue: add a few drops of pure lavender essential oil to warm water and let steep for few moments. Soak a washcloth in this decoction, and then after squeezing out the excess water, roll up the washcloth and place over your eyes for 10 minutes. Voila! Instant relaxation. L’Occitane Lavender Harvest Shea Butter Lavender Ultra Rich Body Cream will maintain the therapeutic effects of lavender as well as promote a healthy, restful sleep. Massage this rich cream all over before bedtime to calm and soothe the body and mind.
Olive Leaf
The benefits of olives are easy to see. After all, some olive trees can live to be over 3,000 years old. If only our skin aged so well! The secret to the longevity of the olive tree lies in Oleuropein, a naturally-produced chemical that helps the tree resists pests and disease throughout its lifetime. When used by humans, oleuropein stuns harmful bacteria and other intruders, bolstering the body’s immune system against bacterial invasion. Combined with anti-aging and antioxidant properties, oleuropein is remarkably useful I skincare. Try L’Occitane Olive Harvest Express Eye Treatment around the eyes for instant hydration and to fight puffiness and sagging skin.
Peppermint
Commonly used for ailments of the digestive tract, peppermint has recently been shown to reduce pancreatic, mammary and liver cancer in animals. It may also prevent cancer of the colon, skin and lungs and peppermints soothing aroma can help relieve headaches and lessen mental fatigue. Hot and sweaty from a long run or working in the garden? Cool off instantly by showering with a peppermint gel or soap. Bliss Mammoth Minty Scrub Soap is a two-in-one treat on hot days. Laced with tiny scrubbing beads, this truly gigantic soap will scrub away grime and dead skin cells, as well as instantly cool the skin with a blast of fresh peppermint. Apply peppermint lotion to the skin to relieve pain, reduce sensitivity, and ease inflamed tissues. Peppermint is also delightful in teas, lemonades and to sweeten plain water. Crush a few fresh leaves between your fingers and place in your favorite beverage to enhance the flavor and boost taste.
Rosemary
Another cancer-preventative, rosemary has been shown to fight free radicals by protecting the integrity of the DNA, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. Rosemary also rejuvenates the mind while reducing the signs of aging. Even more exciting-rosemary strengthens the capillaries, making it a key player in reducing dark circles. Dark circles beneath the eyes can be caused by tiny hemorrhages, or tears, of the capillaries. Using rosemary will help strengthen these tiny vessels and brighten the appearance of the skin. Murad Lighten and Brighten Eye Treatment, rich in herbal extracts and containing linalool, derived from rosemary, is an excellent choice to strengthen the delicate under-eye capillaries and relieve dark circles.
Thyme
In ancient and medieval times, thyme was believed to have invigorating, restorative properties. Before the advent of modern antiseptics, it was used to medicate bandages before they were applied to wounds. Today, thyme is often used to treat and remedy skin and scalp irregularities. It is also a potent antioxidant. When used regularly, thyme can increase cell vigor and longevity, promoting a youthful complexion. Reap the benefits of all five herbs, in addition to a few others by using Cellex-C Under Eye Toning Gel, a cornflower blue gel chock full of anti-oxidants and brightening ingredients.
Truly, herbs are no longer just for the kitchen. Incorporate herbal preparations into all aspects of your skincare regimen for health and vitality!