Anti-aging is possible! But shhh... it's a secret. It is inevitable that with age, cellular regeneration begins to slow in all parts of the body, becoming especially noticeable in the face and neck. The wrinkles, age spots, dark under-eye circles and sagginess are common signs of aging in which society tries so diligently to ward off. As a female Chinese Medical practitioner and Cosmetic Acupuncturist, I am always on the look out for products which will help my patients in their fight against the signs of aging. I consistently educate my patients on what Chinese herbs may be beneficial for them -and their wrinkles- to incorporate Eastern healing traditions into their Western lifestyle. Procedures or treatments which help to treat the face do not dispense the need to treat the skin itself. It is imperative to use products which are suitable for ones skin type and to always use products that are NATURAL. Remember that skin is the largest organ of the human body. Everything that you put onto your skin is absorbed by your pores and processed into your body just like food; treat it good by feeding it well!

I like to call this skin food therapy! These following products are a few which can be both taken internally and even applied directly on the skin!

Bird's Nest

A personal favorite, Bird's nest is considered a delicacy in the Chinese culture! Detailed investigations have discovered bird's nest to contain properties which stimulate the growth and division of cells. It has also been linked to enhanced tissue growth, cellular regeneration and cell-mediated immunity. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, regular consumption of bird's nest can strengthen the lungs and pancreas to prolong one's life and slow down the aging process. It is especially valued by Asian women for its ability to leave the skin delicate and smooth and the complexion both glowing and radiant. Common uses: enhance metabolism in children, strengthen function of the stomach and pancreas in newborns, particularly effective for those with asthma and difficulties in breathing. Also used as a longevity elixir by elders to improve health or increase energy in those just recovering from illness.

Primrose Oil is extracted from the evening primrose plant (Oenothera Biennis), pictured above.

Evening Primrose Oil

Extracted from the evening primrose plant (Oenothera Biennis), this plant's pale yellow flowers open only in the evening - ” hence its common name. Its seeds bare a special fatty oil that is commonly used in healing methods today. Modern research has unveiled the therapeutic power contained within this oil: an essential fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Once processed within the body, GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid which exerts anti-inflammatory properties and other healing actions. Common uses: treatment of eczema, acne and rosacea, protects against signs of aging, nourishes hair, scalp and nails, lessens numbness and tingling associated with arthritis, relieves discomfort of pre-menstrual symptoms, treatment of endometriosis and fibroid cysts, eases joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis and prevents diabetes-associated nerve damage.

Ginseng

This "root of life" is commonly used to treat conditions associated with low energy and fatigue. It has been shown to reduce the signs of aging. Ginseng has shown to lengthen the life span of cells as well as having the ability to stimulate new cell growth. This rich source of vitamin B-complex creates ATP, the fuel which is essential for life - necessary to run essential and everyday processes within the body. Ginseng enhances blood circulation, improves blood formation as well as other metabolic processes. How would this help your skin? With its revitalizing properties, Ginseng stimulates circulation throughout blood vessels to leave the complexion rosy and glowing. Used topically, it has the ability to improve the cells health leaving you with more radiant and supple skin. Common uses: energy, improves brain function, reduce stress levels, increase sexual libido, strengthening cardiovascular health, increase immunity and decrease sugar levels in diabetics.

Green Tea

Apparently the "preferred" drink by supermodels, clinical evidence suggests that green tea is not only packed with health benefits, but beauty benefits as well! Containing more than 200 times the antioxidants of vitamin E, it helps to protect the body (and skin, when applied topically) from free radical damage.

With its antiseptic properties, it can also be used to treat minor cuts and rashes, spots and blemishes, sunburn and even use it to prevent bad breath!! It has also been associated in accelerating cell division to treat all types of skin conditions and prevent the signs of skin aging. Common uses: weight loss, cancer treatment and prevention, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease and impaired immune function.

Pearl

Used by the Chinese for over 5,000 years, pearls not only look good when strung around your neck, they also have amazing effects on the skin! Its unique combination of natural substances and minerals help to keep the skin clear, smooth, soft and supple. By slowing down the development of melanin (the chemical in our body responsible for colour pigments) it prevents and facilitates the fading of pigmentation spots. Rich in proteins, pearls also help to renew skin cells. It is also rich in vitamin B-complex and polysaccharides which strengthen the muscles and improve metabolism. Taken internally, pearl powder also acts as a source of calcium to aid those with bone loss. Chinese experts even claim that it has the ability to filter the sun's rays and correct damage done to the skin by the sun. For all you sun-worshippers, this is for you! Common uses: evens out skin tone, clears acne and rosacea, fades pigmentation marks and is beneficial for general complexion maintenance.

Placenta

An anti-aging essential! Placenta is one of the richest sources of nutrients and immune co-factors ever known. It contains bio-active nutrients such as essential amino acids, melatonin, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), antioxidants, immune co-factors, superoxide dismutase (SOD, a potent antioxidant that protects cells agains free radical damage,

Green Tea has been long believed to benefit your health.

prevents age spots and uneven skin colour), epidermal growth factors (EGF's) and other cell activating factors, to name a few. This unique combination helps to revitalize the skin and assists to repair damages caused by environmental and metabolic factors. Not only does it clearly promote the growth of cellular tissue, it also helps to regulate hormones and strengthen immune function. It is a favorite among those who wish to preserve their beauty and youth. Common uses: common beauty tonic, kidney tonic, aphrodisiac, improve energy and depression.

Royal Jelly

Beehive products - the collective name for honey, royal jelly, bee propolis and bee pollen, are the natural foods revered as the fountain of youth since the dawn of history. People in all cultures have collected honeycombs and used royal jelly for both nutritional and therapeutic purposes. The healing power and health benefits of royal jelly and beehive products are still one of the most sought after in modern time. Royal jelly is the crown jewel among beehive products; it's rich, creamy white and opalescent liquid, is created by the worker and used exclusively for the nourishment of the queen bee with its amazing longevity, energy and stamina for reproductive capability. Gelatin, a precursor of collagen, accounts for royal jelly's ability keeping the skin youthful. Common uses: improve energy levels, stimulate and boost the immune system, help fight bacterial and viral infections, prevent skin aging and keep youthfulness, weight control, anxiety and longevity.