5 centuries-old food items consumed for glowing skin

Long before the release of fancy serums and tube creams, ancient civilisations had their own elegant approach towards achieving glowing and clear skin. We typically imagine ancient beauty routines involving rose water with milk baths and the use of oils, clay masks, and more. But the real game changer was their dietary wisdom. Many ancient cultures across the globe trusted their skin’s health to their food, which surprisingly came with cutting-edge nutritional benefits. Let’s know 5 of such ancestral eating patterns that are better and healthier than your expensive skincare routine.

Ancient Egyptians were popular for their elaborate beauty rituals, which included consuming nuts, which helped them achieve a brighter complexion and ageless beauty. Egyptian women used to consume almonds, which have an exceptional concentration of vitamin E and are a powerful antioxidant that protects their skin cells from oxidative stress and the harsh desert climate. It also prevented accelerated ageing, as the sun exposure created free radicals and was used for internal and external needs.

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The ancient Greeks approached beauty through a balanced lifestyle and emphasised diet for a glowing appearance. They used to consume Oxygala, i.e., a fermented milk similar to yoghurt, which manifested clear and glowing skin. They also consumed a fermented grain drink called Kyleon, which provided beneficial bacteria to clean the gut, which led to better digestion and helped prevent breakouts and acne issues, which are caused by gut microbes at times.

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The Chinese people consumed pearl powder for glowing skin, which was used in teas, soups, and medicinal formulations. It is mainly calcium carbonate with traces of amino acids and minerals, which support the skin function, regulating cell turnover and rejuvenation. This powder helped in removing the dead skin cells, preventing buildup, and leaving a lustrous and clear appearance in no time.

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Ayurvedic medicine has a history of 5,000 years, which prescribed turmeric consumption and application for beautiful skin. This yellow spice offers powerful anti-inflammatory properties and helps to prevent premature ageing and acne issues. It is still heavily used in the Indian culture and is also used in several manufactured beauty products. Ayurvedic practitioners, however, used to add black pepper, ghee, and other combinations, which helped in a tight, clear, and glowing complexion.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

(Image Credits: Pinterest)