The holidays are such an exciting time of year! The traditional decor, the signature music, and the special foods and smells are not only nostalgic, but also pack many surprising health benefits!
1. Orange
Orange is a signature winter citrus fruit. Whether it’s simmering in a fragrant pot with cinnamon and cloves or in a mimosa on Christmas morning, there is sure to be some form of orange around your holiday celebrations. The benefits of orange juice are widely known. Drinking orange juice provides high levels of Vitamin C to fortify the immune system and boost collagen production. Topically, orange extract is thought to contribute to skin-brightening and provide carotenoids, a potent antioxidant to combat signs of aging. Find the refreshing scent and benefits of orange oils in Frownies Citrus Honey Body-wash.
2. Pomegranate
Pomegranates have grown in popularity over recent years. Harvested from October through January, the juice makes for a festive cocktail and the seeds are a sweet and crunchy addition to any holiday salad. Pomegranates are loaded with a specific antioxidant called punicalagins. The punicalagins are also responsible for the potent anti-inflammatory benefits of the fruit. These plant compounds have been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Find this superfood antioxidant in Frownies Eye Cream.
3. Macadamia Nut Oil
Perhaps not as instantly recognizable as “chestnuts roasting on an open fire,” macadamia nuts are a popular addition to baked goods during the holiday season. This Australian nut is loaded with healthy fats, antioxidants, and Vitamin E–all great for healthy skin. Most significantly, the oils from this nut also provide a vegan source of a lesser-discussed skin compound called squalene. Squalene is important for the hydration and overall youthful appearance of the skin. Like collagen, the amount of squalene produced naturally decreases over our lifetimes. Squalene found in macadamia nut oil mimics the squalene that our bodies produce, making it an ideal skincare ingredient. It is easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores providing the ultimate lightweight hydration to improve the skin’s texture and decrease the appearance of wrinkles. Find macadamia nut oil with its natural squalene in Frownies Skin Serum and Frownies Soft Serum Patch.
4. Ginger
Around Christmas, ginger may be best known for its use in baked goods–the gingerbread men and gingerbread houses–But the ginger root also has many well-supported health benefits. Ginger is commonly used for digestive issues (think ginger ale to settle upset stomach). Some recent studies have also proved the skin benefits of ginger, including improved skin texture, due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Find oil from the ginger root in Frownies Cellulite Cream.
5. Frankincense
Best known as one of the three gifts from the Wise Men to the baby Jesus in the Bible, frankincense has been used for its healing properties for thousands of years. Frankincense is derived from the Boswellia tree. The scent of frankincense is claimed to improve mood, decrease stress, and improve anxiety. Topically, frankincense is used to treat acne and is thought to diminish signs of aging. Find this historic oil in Frownies Cellulite Cream.
6. Myrrh
Another one of the three gifts from the Wise Men was Myrrh. Historically, myrrh was used to heal wounds and to treat digestive issues. Myrrh is an oil from the sap of a thorny tree found in Asia and Africa. The research supporting the use of myrrh is robust! Myrrh has been shown to increase healing rates of skin sores and irritations, decrease pain and swelling, has anti-inflammatory, as well as antimicrobial, properties–Honestly, what can myrrh not do? Find this surprising super oil in John George Skin Conditioning Splash.
7. Sage
No holiday meal is complete without sage. Often added to poultry or sausage dishes, sage provides a unique yet versatile flavor and aroma. But the benefits of sage go beyond the dinner table. Sage is high in antioxidants and several studies have shown sage to fight acne and decrease signs of aging including decreasing the appearance of wrinkles! Due to its natural antibacterial properties along with known benefits to calm and soothe dry, irritated skin, sage also makes the perfect addition to soaps and hand lotions. Find it in Frownies Lush Lime Handwash.
Now even your skincare can join in the festivities this holiday season!
By: Dr. Megan C. Wright, PT, DPT
Megan C. Wright, PT, DPT is an authority in health and wellness content with over ten years of clinical experience as well as a freelance health writer. Megan received a BA in English from the University of Virginia and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Marymount University. Megan lives outside Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young boys..