For centuries, the Chinese have turned to alternative medicine, otherwise known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat ailments inside and out. From acupuncture to boiling potent concoctions, this route has proven to be effective, winning the hearts of celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow (who is rumoured to be a fan of acupuncture) and Miranda Kerr (who nibbles on goji berries, a TCM favourite, on the regular) to name a few.
Related article: How Miranda Kerr Keeps Her Body In Great Shape
On the other side of the globe, the beauty industry has run extensive research on TCM botanicals to prove that they do contain active compounds that can improve the quality of life on a scientific level. So why not infuse them in luxurious potions and lotions for a better-looking you? If the scientific approach doesn’t work for you, TCM experts from local TCM company, Eu Yan Sang, has some simple advise up their sleeves on how to consume traditional herbs to achieve beauty and health from within.
Ingredient: Lotus
Product: Lotus Face Treatment Oil by Clarins
Function: With a lavish blend of sacred lotus, Roman chamomile, clary sage, geranium and rose wood extracts in a luxurious hazelnut oil base, Clarins’ youth-enhancing elixir is perfect for oily skin types. The sacred lotus extract helps to hydrate the skin, iron out fine lines and improve skin elasticity. (For more info, visit the Clarins website)
Eu Yan Sang suggests: If you’re looking for improved blood circulation and detoxification, consume lotus extracts as a tea. Simply add 2 teaspoonfuls of dried lotus flowers into 500ml of hot water, and consume the tisane when you’re feeling sluggish and out of it.
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Ingredient: Ginseng
Product: Concentrated Ginseng Cream EX by Sulwhasoo
Function: This powerful anti ager from luxury Korean skincare brand, Sulwhasoo, taps on to the revitalising potential of the ginseng plant. Expect dark spots to fade, fine lines to even out, and a lit-from-within glow that everyone loves when you apply this lavish cream on your skin. (For more info, visit the Sulwhasoo website)
Eu Yan Sang suggests: When consumed, ginseng helps to boost the immune system, calm the mind, promote peaceful sleep, and improve vitality. Pour hot (not boiling) water over chopped dried ginseng, and let it steep for 5 minutes before consuming the infusion. The softened ginseng can also be consumed as is.
Ingredient: Peony
Product: Peony Brightening Treatment Mask by Fresh
Function: If you’re looking for a quick fix to diminish dark spots and carry a radiant glow about your face, Fresh’s Peony Brightening Treatment Mask is a definite go-to. The peony extracts help to brighten the complexion and even out the skin tone. Combine it with vitamin C glucosides, hydrating cucumber extracts, and skin-strengthening amino acids and what you’ll get is a complexion that will even make Fan Bing Bing envious. (For more info, visit the Fresh website)
Eu Yan Sang suggests: The dried roots of a white peony is commonly used in TCM to regulate menstrual cycle, remove bodily heat, and calm emotions. For girls going through PMS, boil the dried white peony roots, and consume the extract to balance energies out.
Ingredient: Angelica
Product: Hydra Vital Cream by L’Occitane
Function: Those with drier skin types will adore L’Occitane’s Hydra Vital Cream. Angelica is the product’s star ingredient, which is great for boosting the skin’s hydration levels and improve skin’s resilience. Say goodybe to dull, sallow skin! (For more info, visit the L’Occitane website)
Eu Yan Sang suggests: Dried angelica roots are commonly ingested to promote blood flow, relieve cold symptoms, and reduce skin itching. A TCM physician will prescribe angelica roots, and give proper instructions on preparation suggestions.
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Ingredient: Licorice
Product: Deep Brightening Serum by Tatcha
Function: Well-known for its skin brightening properties, licorice is combined with anti ageing powers of jujube extract and HADASEI-3™ Complex in Tatcha’s Deep Brightening Serum. (For more info, visit the Tatcha website)
Eu Yan Sang suggests: When consumed, licorice tea improves blood flow, immunity, and detoxifies the body. Simply bring dried licorice roots in a pot of cold water to boil and consume the concoction. For extra flavour, add ginger or chamomile.
By Syed Zulfadhli
