Skin is the largest organ.
Chinese women seem to keep nearly flawless skin as they age. Their emphasis on keeping skin healthy has led to women and men looking years younger than their real age. Through organic moisturizing, diet and maintaining a healthy liver, the Chinese remain looking young and healthy even into their advanced years. With the use of herbs such as wolfberry and American ginseng, the skin as well as overall health can benefit. Chinese skin care does have its limitations, because certain herbs pose health risks to people with diabetes.
Significance
The Chinese emphasize skin care, but not primarily for beauty. The skin is the largest organ in the body, so keeping it healthy can lead to greater overall health, according to Chinese medicine. In addition to being the largest body organ, the Chinese consider the skin the most vital because it is the first line of defense against illness and disease.
Theories/Speculation
According to Chinese medicine, the skin is directly correlated to the amount of heat in the blood. It is how we control this heat that has a direct effect on the health of the skin. For example, they believe that eating hot, spicy foods adds further heat to the blood. This has a negative effect on the skin and can cause acne and dry skin. Occasionally indulging in these foods is fine, but overuse can create problems. A herb that is used in Chinese medicine for skin care is wolfberry. It helps nourish the liquids in the liver, kidneys and blood. Keeping these organs and the blood nourished and healthy has a positive impact on the skin as well as overall health.
Considerations
To practice Chinese skin-care methods, one should first detoxify and care for the liver. The liver impacts every other organ in the body including the skin. To accomplish this, a person simply needs to eat a well-balanced diet. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is very good for the liver. Greasy and deep-fried foods should be strictly limited. Adequate rest is also essential. Staying active for too long means the liver also remains active. Without adequate rest, the liver cannot remove toxins from the blood.
Warning
According to your-doctor.com, there are a few dangers associated with Chinese skin care. Diabetics should be extra cautious before taking any Chinese herbs. Gyburide and phenformin are in several of these herbs, but are also ingredients in some prescription diabetes medicines. Anyone taking medication for diabetes along with these herbs could damage her health. Consult your doctor before taking any Chinese herbal remedies.
Effects
Using a Chinese skin-care regimen can have several positive effects beyond improving the appearance of the skin. For example, American ginseng is one of the herbs that benefits the skin but may also help with physical stamina, memory retention, nausea and other effects of aging.
Tags: Chinese medicine, overall health, skin care, American ginseng, before taking