The Cucumber: Benefits of Use and other Facts

I've always seen pictures of the women who have slices of cucumber over their eyes, and I wondered why. I recently tried a new makeup that has cucumber water as an ingredient. It's because of the results I got from that makeup that struck my curiosity about what types of benefits cucumber offers for any type of skin care. The first thing I saw was that cucumbers are among the worlds healthiest foods and have been used for a variety of skin care regimens as well as for their health benefits for 1,000's of years.

Cucumbers are primarily made up of water but also contain high levels of Vitamin C and caffeic acid, which are both used to help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. So that's why people have them on their eyes, to decrease under eye puffiness.

The skin of the cucumber is rich in fiber and contains a large variety of minerals including silica, potassium, and magnesium. Silica is an essential component of healthy connective tissue. Important for the elasticity wrinkle proofing your skin :).

The fact that the cucumber has high levels of water content makes it a naturally hydrating source which increases the complexion and health of your skin.

Cucumbers have also been known to be used as a bleaching agent (Cucumber Fashions)

The Best 10 Recipes for Beverages Using Cucumber

As great as the benefits are on your skin, they are even more appealing on what they can do for one's health. I'm sure there are many, many more than these, but just to touch on a few important benefits:

Cucumbers are a rich source of Vitamin C which is great in aiding a healthy immune system. It also is a great source of dietary fiber, which is good for keeping your digestive track functioning normally. It's one of the easiest ways to increase your fiber and water intake. If you have a tendency to get bloated or retain water, these are a natural way to prevent water retention.

Cucumbers have also been proven through research for D.A.S.H (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) to help in lowering blood pressure. Studies show that adding foods high in potassium, magnesium, and fiber can lower the systolic (top) number by 5.5 points, and the diastolic (bottom) number as much as over 3 points.

Cucumbers are rich in:

• Vitamin C
• Mineral Molybdenum
• Vitamin A
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Folate
• Dietary Fiber
• Magnesium
• Silica

Cucumbers benefit your body in these ways:

• pretty skin
• healthy skin
• healing effects on skin
• healthy digestion
• healthy immune system
• prevents water retention
• natural hydration
  

The facts that I share on any hub of mine where it pertains to anything medical is from my research of other resources and my opinion.  I am NOT  a medical Doctor and any time you decide to do anything that could affect your health in a positive or negative way you should ALWAYS consult your physician first!