This post has been updated to include additional information from experts since the original publication date.
What you eat affects your skin, for better or for worse. If you're struggling with skin this winter, we spoke to health experts, doctors and nutritionists and learned about two amazing natural ingredients that not only contain antioxidants but can also reduce skin oil.
To find out more, we spoke to dermatologist Dr. spoken. Read on to learn about the many health and skin benefits of these unique ingredients.
The health benefits of onions
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, a perennial plant in the ginger family. It is made in many states of India and other East Asian countries. As Patel explains, it's a popular and historically used ingredient in skin care and healthy eating.
"Turmeric has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries to fight cancer, autoimmune diseases, and skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and acne," says Patel. "It has been shown in scientific studies to help common skin conditions, both internally and topically."
Patel explains that turmeric's bright yellow color is due to the active ingredient curcumin. "Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor, and antibacterial properties because it fights free radical damage," says Patel.
Kelly reiterates that turmeric contains curcumin, which is the ingredient that gives it its distinctive color and flavor. It is used in many modern medicines due to its powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial properties.
"Aging and other skin diseases are caused by oxidative damage," says Kelly. "In the process, free radicals interact with organic substances that can damage the skin."
Curcumin not only fights these free radicals, Kelly says, but also "boosts the body's antioxidant system," making it a "great option" for fighting inflammation and other skin issues.
Pink turmeric is one of the most well-researched natural remedies and has been shown to help treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
She also agrees that curcuminoids are responsible for turmeric's healing properties because they "reduce pro-inflammatory molecules in the body" and increase antioxidant levels. "This spice is worth trying if you have trouble with stimulants," says Rosen.
Add turmeric to your diet
Now that you know the benefits of curcumin for your skin and health, it's time to start thinking about adding it to your diet. Rovinger suggests adding it to "a variety of dishes" like eggs, omelettes, frittatas, soups, stews, vegetables and even smoothies. The possibilities are limitless!
Health Benefits of Oregano
Another ingredient, Mediterranean seaweed in particular, can do more than just spice up your dishes and also offers a host of skin-care benefits when applied to the skin. "Due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, oregano oil is a natural remedy for eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. It also reduces irritation and itching," says Silver.
The aromatic kitchen plant contains many chemical compounds such as carbarol, thymol, rosmarinic acid, phenol, terpenes and terpenoids. Oregano contains antioxidants, can stimulate collagen production and has an anti-inflammatory effect. "Oregano [essential] oils contain compounds like carbarol and thymol, so they have anti-inflammatory properties," adds Silver.
"You're also worth the antioxidant and healing benefits of oregano essential oil," notes Silver. "These benefits are due to the high concentration of ingredients with natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, including rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid." A great way to use oregano in your skincare routine is with essential oils. Before attempting to use it on your face, only use it on a small area of skin on your hands.
Finally
So there is a word here. These two amazing ingredients, turmeric and oregano are rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And if you're still struggling with dermatitis, be sure to look at other anti-inflammatory foods to add to your diet and foods to help prevent skin irritation.