Skin care may have gone totally hi-tech, but it still looks to Mother Nature to reap richer benefits. We are talking about certain kitchen ingredients and their importance in the past. Their virtues in the present day scenario are yet worth extolling. So here are some nature gifts that are useful for your body and your skin too:

Aloe Vera: Alexander the great helped heal his soldiers’ wound with the juice of aloe vera. The American Indian called it the ‘wand of heaven’. Today, aloe vera has been rediscovered as a storehouse of important vitamins and minerals, in addition to beta carotene, enzymes and amino acids. A great tonic to raise lowered immunity, aloe vera gel is useful in treating digestive tract problems. It is now also being hailed as a wonder ingredient in cosmetic preparations for its moisturizing and healing properties.

Alfalfa: Ancient tales tell of its values; it was often worn in an amulet for protection. The herbalists of ancient Greece called it the father of all foods. Spanish explorers introduced it to the new world and it later became the most popular cattle fodder. Alfalfa seeds can be sprouted or grown like wheatgrass. An energetic cocktail of beta carotene, minerals and vitamins, it is a tonic, stimulant, appetizer and a diuretic all rolled into one. It also provides relief from urinary disorders and water retention.

Holy basil: Hindu mythology speaks of this shrub in a reverential tone. It is grown in the backyards of many a home, to drive away evil. While basil leaves possess appetite-stimulating properties, they come with decongesting power, too. Infusions of the leaf are used to relive flatulence and stomach cramps. It is used in herbal teas. It is known to boost blood circulation and is the holistic way to treating certain skin disorders.

Chamomile: It is believed that as a guardian angel, it protects all the other plants in the garden. Also, when worn in an amulet, it fulfills wishes. And that it is an effective hair rinse. It helps calm frazzled nerves and cures insomnia, cramps and stomach aches. Its anti bacterial and anti inflammatory properties ensure you wake up rested and relaxed every morning.

Clove: A symbol of life in china, the clove has been used to cure halitosis (bad breathe), to make pomanders that serve a bug repellants or as a room/cupboard fresheners. Cloves aids digestion and speeds up the metabolism. Chewing it settles a sudden, uncontrolled cough, while its oil helps dull a toothache.

Fenugreek: Legend has it that fenugreek’s medicinal qualities were valued by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. It was given to lactating mothers to stimulate milk production. Back home, fenugreek seeds were soaked in water and applied to warts, while a few seeds left in an open jar were supposed to increase wealth. This bitter food is a panacea for indigestion and flatulence and the simplest way to recover from severe anemia. It is also used for treating bronchitis, coughs and lung infections. The seeds, when added to tea, help in reducing bad breathe and body odour. The leaves and the seeds are also used in making face and hair packs.