Add spice to your beauty

Coriander, the ancient spice is known for lowering cholesterol, treating digestive system, increasing haemoglobin levels and curing eczema. The antiseptic and carminative properties of green leaves you sprinkle on vegetables and salad is also secret of glowing skin since it reduces acidity, which helps to get rid of various skin eruptions. Chewing fresh coriander leaves prevents anaemia, which causes dull and dry skin. Coriander is rich in Vitamin C, beta-carotene and antioxidants. Its fresh aroma instantly rejuvenates both mind and body, which makes skin soft, smooth and radiant.

Coriander is one of the most common ingredients in Indian food. The leaves, the plant and seeds all have their uses. The paste of powder of the seeds is probably the most common spice after turmeric.

Ayurveda, the ancient herbal healing system of India, mentions the use of coriander in many prescriptions, due to its potent healing properties. Modern research has revealed that it does have powerful healing properties. For one thing, coriander contains powerful antioxidants, which prevent oxidation damage. This actually helps to delay degeneration of the body. As far as beauty is concerned, preventing oxidation damage helps to delay the formation of visible ageing signs on the skin and keeps the skin youthful for a longer time.

Coriander also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin K and some of the B-Vitamins, along with several minerals, like iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium and carotene. It also has antiseptic and germicidal properties, as well as anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is easily available in every home in India and may be easily used for skin benefits. Both coriander leaves and the seeds may be used in treatments.

In Ayurvedic treatments, a paste of coriander leaves is applied on the skin or scalp to alleviate itchiness and dryness. In fact, a paste of coriander seeds with a little water and one teaspoon honey is said to relieve itching.

Due to its antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, coriander helps to control and cure acne conditions. Coriander leaves and lemon grass may be used together to control acne. Take one teaspoon each of coriander leaves and lemongrass. Add one cup boiling water and let the herbs steep for an hour. Then blend the herbs to a paste and apply on the acne eruptions. Leave on for 20 minutes and wash off with plain water.

Coriander is also said to help blackheads. Getting rid of blackheads helps to control acne, as a blackhead is a primary acne lesion. The fresh juice of coriander leaves mixed with lemon juice helps to control blackheads. A paste of coriander leaves, mixed with a paste of methi leaves helps in the treatment of whiteheads. Apply on the areas with blackheads and wash off after 20 minutes.

Coriander and lemongrass are also recommended for acne treatment. Take one teaspoon each of coriander and lemongrass and put it in a bowl. Add half a cup of boiling water to it and let it steep in the water, till the water cools down. Mix the herbs and water into a paste and apply on the areas with acne. Leave on for 20 minutes and wash off with plain water.

A coriander face pack can brighten the skin and fade acne marks. You will need fresh tomatoes, coriander leaves and stems, as well as rose water. Blend these together into a smooth paste. You may apply this on the face like a pack if the consistency is alright. Or, add a little Fuller’s Earth (Multani mitti) for a thicker consistency.

Apply on the face and wash it off after 15 minutes. Coriander is also said to remove tan. Make a face mask at home to reduce tan and also add a glow to the face. Take half cup oats, one-fourth cup yoghurt, one-fourth cup chopped coriander leaves. Blend this till it is a smooth paste. Apply on the face, avoiding lips and area around eyes. Leave on for 20 minutes and wash off with water.