The reason that Chinese medicine is so effective in skin health is because is two-fold:
1. It hydrates the skin
2. It Reduces inflammation
Chinese medicine is based on the theory of yin and yang. Which is based on the principle that we live in a dualistic universe. Examples of this are: up & down, night & day, hot & cold, East and West, summer and winter. Each can only exist because of the other. We can’t have a right if there is no left.
Yin represents water and hydration. An excess of yang results in inflammation, which is technically referred to as ‘excessive heat’ in Chinese medicine. Balancing yin and yang is what leads to being powerfully healthy.
Although the humidity that comes with our summers does help the skin. If you’re not careful you can further dehydrate yourself and the heat can increase inflammation. I’m not just talking about superficial inflammation caused by sunburns. Think of an engine that runs out of coolant and overheats. The same thing can happen to your body. And it does your skin will suffer.
One of the best ways to beat the heat this summer is not through ice cream, cold beer or extra ice in your water. Foods that are too cold can actually “freeze” your digestive system. The cure? Watermelon! Water-melon is incredibly hydrating. According to findings from USDA scientists, watermelon contains powerful antioxidants that have shown to: Reduce the risk of asthma, diabetes, colon cancer and arthritis. It’s rich in Vitamin C, A and Bs, fiber, magnesium potassium, and Lycopene.
Lycopene not only disarms harmful free radicals, but studies have shown it to reduce inflammation, reduce the risk of a wide variety of cancers, and benefit the digestive system.
Watermelon will offset the heat this summer. And your skin will thank you.
