sPOTLIGHT iNGREDIENT: cRANBERRY
Cranberry is a type of evergreen shrub that can be found growing along the banks of marshes and wetlands in northeastern North America.
These low, creeping plants feature wiry green stems, clusters of pink flowers and deep red, egg-shaped berries; resembling the profile of a crane, they were initially called “crane-berries” by early European settlers.
The berries themselves are water-harvested and, when ripe and ready to pick (typically between September and November), they float on the water’s surface. This exposes them to sunlight, which contributes to their high nutritional value.
Historically, cranberries were used by indigenous peoples and early settlers as a medicinal ingredient to treat infections and boost overall health.
The topical use of cranberries enables the antioxidants found within them to help combat free radicals and slow the appearance of the effects of premature aging, the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, and the breakdown of collagen.
Cranberries also contain natural acids that help prevent the clogging of pores.
Cranberry has the only oil with a perfect ratio of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. Cranberries are rich in vitamin C that help in boosting our collagen production that is known to improve the elasticity of the skin.
Cranberry is a rich source of antioxidants, which promote the growth of new cells. Apart from this, antioxidants help in eliminating the free radicals from your skin, making it healthy. Using cranberry-infused beauty products can also reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
All the antioxidants and vitamin C present in the cranberries boost collagen production. Collagen helps the blood vessels to carry the oxygen and nutrients beneath the skin. This helps in making your skin soft, firm and, of course, younger. On the other hand, vitamin C in cranberries helps in reducing the inflammation, too.
Cranberries carry a lot of enzymes which exfoliate the dead skin cells while adding a subtle glow to your skin. This factor helps in controlling the excess sebum production, hence cranberries are no less than a blessing for oily skinned ladies. Cranberries also offer natural astringent properties and reduce the pores. Vitamins present in cranberries also lighten your skin tone. This, in turn, makes your skin even toned and radiant.
Cranberries can act as natural lip gloss. They effectively help in treating dry and pigmented lips. If you use cranberries topically, your lips will become depigmented, soft and radiant. You can use cranberry juice, cranberry-infused lip gloss or balm or cranberry paste to see visible results.
Because of the antiseptic properties, cranberries can effectively treat your acne. They can reduce the size of your pimples and treat other skin infections. Vitamin C, which is already present in cranberries, reduces redness and lightens post acne marks. On the other hand, antioxidants present in cranberries can soothe the skin.
Cranberries contain a very high amount of vitamin A and C. Both of these vitamins promote healthy hair. Cranberry shampoo or juice for your hair can repair the hair follicles. Healthy hair follicles help in promoting the growth of healthy hair. Apart from this, cranberries can treat split ends and make your hair look lustrous.
Cranberries are known for their antifungal and antiseptic properties. Hence, they can treat your scalp problems like dandruff and itching with ease. When you use cranberry rinse for your hair, it effectively cleanses your scalp and gives all the nutrients to your hair. Cranberries also can be applied topically to the scalp to treat dandruff. You can use cranberry shampoo, too, as they are widely available in the market.
Rinsing your hair with cranberries can give your hair a nice and subtle red tint. If you already have red hair, it can be used to enhance the look. It will add a beautiful colour to your hair temporarily without damaging your tresses.
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- Danielle Lasit