The Beauty Benefits of Watercress
Haven’t you heard? WATERCRESS IS THE NEW KALE™
For years, kale was THE health staple in many households–and it’s not hard to see why. The fact that it’s jam-packed with vitamins and nutrients that the body needs and craves contributed to its massive popularity. However, kale isn’t the only green superfood that packs a health punch. Watercress is just as powerful, if not better for you in more ways than one. It’s especially favored in the beauty industry as a robust skin-enhancing ingredient.
Watercress: A superfood that can truly save your skin
You’d never think that there are so many health benefits attached to this one single plant–but there are. Watercress is not only beneficial for physical health, but it also has additional benefits that could have a positive impact on your skin.
If you want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, watercress may be just what you need. For starters, it contains the carotenoid antioxidant that reportedly helps to reduce pigmentation and minimize the effects of aging. [1] [2] This plays a role in watercress’s ability to help your skin look youthful and retain its elasticity.
Studies show that watercress consumption may even help to reduce acne and other inflammatory skin conditions. [3] Its high levels of vitamins C and E are what reportedly produce this result. All of these benefits combined prove that watercress is a great detoxifying addition to your skin regime.
The science behind watercress and its acne-fighting powers
When you have acne, the bacteria on your skin clogs your pores. This ultimately leads to an increase in oil production and excess sebum. Watercress can help neutralize these bacteria by trapping them in the water it produces to keep your skin hydrated, which will make sure that your pores are as open as possible so that your skin can clear itself up more easily.
How to incorporate watercress in your skincare routine
Once people become aware of the benefits of this watercress, they jump at the opportunity to add this green superfood to their skincare routines as well. Fortunately, it’s already used in a variety of store bought skincare products.
Many skincare manufacturers refer to watercress by its botanical name, Nasturtium Officinale. You’ll know that a skincare product has watercress in it if you see this name on the ingredient label. In case you were wondering, our Superfood Beauty Oil contains Nasturtium Officinale Seed Oil among a list of other essential oils.
Other ways to enjoy the skin-enhancing benefits of watercress
You already know this, but what you consume diet-wise affects your skin as well. Watercress can serve as a wonderful addition to your daily diet. A good amount of watercress each day can provide your body with an array of essential vitamins and nutrients that are good for the skin.
Watercress is a fairly low-lying plant with very little thorns. You’ll notice that it has the appearance of a baby spinach leaf–and it’s easy to prepare and eat.
There are quite a few ways that you can incorporate it in popular meals. It pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes–such as vegetables, fish, and eggs. It also gets along swimmingly with fruit. These convenient little seeds are even versatile enough to use in stir-fries, soups, salads, and sandwiches.
Sources
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5063591/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583891/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30339978/
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