Dry skin. Itchy skin. Skin rash. Winter has landed and dryness has officially set in. The air outside is dryer and so is the inside your home and work, no doubt. Besides drinking more water (which is challenging during colder months), you can eat nourishing and enriching foods that help increase circulation to alleviate dryness. These foods are great for the skin: from mild dry skin to psoriasis, and everything in between.
1. Goji Berries. This berry is the Chinese herb gou qi zi (pinyin) which moistens and enriches the skin. Goji berries are also good for eye health. Pair them with chrysanthemum flowers, to make a delicious tea for your eye sight
2. Walnuts. These nuts are packed with essential fatty acids which are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility. Walnuts are also the Chinese herb he tao ren (pinyin) which nourishes and moistens. Also, they are good for helping you stay regular and keeping your colon free from toxins.
3. Dates. The date is the Chinese herb da zao (pinyin) which is very nourishing and moistening. It’s also great for combatting fatigue and giving you a natural energy boost.
4. Black Beans. These powerhouse legumes are chocked full of protein and fiber. They’re fantastic at enriching the skin and bringing moisture to that outer layer.
5. Olive Oil. This type of oil contains essential fatty acids and keeps the skin moistened and looking healthy overall. The best type of olive oil is the least processed form labelled: “cold pressed,” “expeller processed,” or “extra virgin.” These contain the highest level of antioxidants.
6. Asian Pears. This fruit packs a crisper crunch compared to its American counterpart. It is very moistening making it great for the skin. It’s also perfect for dry coughs and dry mouth. Make sure to eat the skin of the fruit, too!
7. Blueberries. These berries along with blackberries and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, which help skin repair. In Chinese medicine, berries are very nourishing and moistening for the body especially the skin. They are also great for getting rid of fatigue.
Enjoy one or two of these foods everyday for a week and see how your skin feels. If you still have dry skin after eating these foods for 2-3 weeks, we recommend trying acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Chinese medicine can help nourish your skin on a deeper level. To see if Chinese medicine is right for you, contact us today at (773) 915-3683 or palmgrenacu@gmail.com.