The root of the curcuma longa plant, known as turmeric, is a staple in Eastern and Asian cuisines. Turmeric is part of the ginger family. Its appearance, similar to ginger, has the familiar perpendicular roots and shoots that grow against the force of gravity, known as rhizomes. Today, turmeric is most widely recognized as a spice, but it is a plant that, for centuries, has…

Humans have utilized plants for healing and health since the beginning of time. Each plant has the unique ability to draw nutrients from the earth and transform them into powerful, bioactive constituents that create a corresponding biological response in the human body. For overall efficacy in both skin care and health care, plants need to be used as close to whole as possible, maintaining their…

Hydrosols, also known as floral waters or hydrolats, are produced through distillation of essential oils. In a steam distillation method, the hydrosol – or water of the plant – is released and the essential oil floats on top and is siphoned off. Some producers create hydrosols for their own unique benefits, bypassing the essential oils. The term hydrosol means water solution, from “hydro,” meaning water,…

Skin hydration is important, but it is not only achieved through topical treatments. Diet can also help to keep the skin from becoming too dry. But the question is, which vitamins, minerals and nutrients are skin-hydrating and which vegetables and fruits can they be found in?