The Skinny on Superfoods

Every day we look for healthier ways of living which is why I created a few superfood recipes for your body and skin. Superfoods are most commonly known for containing extra high amounts of antioxidants, vitamins & minerals which help protect our bodies from disease and support our skin from the damaging environmental effects of the sun. Here's a look at a few popular types of superfoods in today's market:

Coconut milk & oil – Contains antimicrobial lipids and lauric acid, which helps prevent heart disease and various bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause indigestion. When applied to skin it strengthens skin tissue, exfoliates dead skin cells and moisturizes.

Kale – Filled with powerful antioxidants, high in calcium, vitamin a, vitamin k, iron and it’s a great detox food.

Pomegranate – Produces youthful skin, helps with dry skin, and protects the epidermis and dermis by encouraging skin cell regeneration, aiding in the repair of tissues, healing wounds and encouraging circulation to skin that is healing.

Flax Seeds – Able to scavenge free radicals in the body, high in omega 3 fatty acids and fiber.

Raw Cocoa Powder – Contains flavonoids, which help prevent platelets in your blood from mingling together and forming clots.

Dates – Naturally sweet, they are a rich source of protein, dietary fiber and high in vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B5 along with vitamin A1 and C.

Jojoba Oil – Is a great scalp cleanser and helps promote hair growth. High in monounsaturated fatty acids, also rich in vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin E, myristic acid (a saturated fatty acid, and plant wax.

Oranges – The orange is known for its vitamin C content, but it also has more than 170 cancer-fighting phytochemicals and 60 flavonoids, and it also helps brighten, exfoliate, and build collagen in skin. It is the complete package of natural anti-cancer nutrients and beauty essentials.

And, now, some recipes to try at home or at work (if you are a formulator or in a spa or salon, etc.):

Chamomile Honey Facial Wash with Superfood Orange
¼ cup calendula or chamomile tea (anti-inflammatory)
¼ cup jojoba oil or olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
8 drops of essential oil of either geranium, lavender or roman chamomile (optional)
8 drops of vitamin E oil
Superfood: Oranges (squeeze 1 fresh orange slice)
 
Directions: Add all your ingredients to a bowl and mix well. Pour into a clean bottle or jar with lid and keep out of the sun. Apply to face and gently wash with a warm wash cloth.
 
Rose Water Facial Toner with Superfood Pomegranate
¼ cup filtered water
¼ cup aloe vera juice
8 drops of rose otto essential oil
Superfood: 1 tablespoon Pomegranate Juice or juice of actual fresh pomegranate seeds
 
Directions: Add all your ingredients to clean bottle with sprayer top.
You may also refrigerate. Use throughout the day to hydrate and calm skin.
 
Vanilla and Coconut Body Lotion with Superfood Coconut Oil
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/8 cup shea butter
1 tablespoon aloe vera juice
1 tablsepoon of jojoba oil
5-10 drops vanilla extract (optional)
 
Directions: Add all your ingredients to a clean pot and slowly heat until melted. Pour melted ingredients into a clean jar with cover. Use sparingly on body or face!
 
Winter Cup of Superfood Hot Cocoa
2 ½ cups of unsweented coconut milk
Superfood: 1 ½ tablespoon of raw unsweetened cocoa powder
Superfood: 1 cup of dates
Superfood: 1 ½ tablespoon of grounded flax seeds
Directions: Add unsweetened coconut milk, cocoa powder and dates into blender. Blend until all is liquefied. Add to pot on stove and slowly mix grounded flax seeds. Drink and enjoy! Serves 2-3 people.
 
About the expert:
Rianna Loving is the creator of  L.A.’s innovative and eco-friendly line Organic to Green. Packaged in donated, reusable glass – gathered from a community recycling program – her brainchild quickly became a staple in the Los Angeles beauty world. The brand was launched in exclusive LA based retailer Fred Segal, and the signature white tea formulas were later developed as an exclusive refillable amenity line for luxury hotels. Organic to Green is also available for purchase at The O.C. Mart Mix in Costa Mesa, CA.

 More info: www.organictogreen.com