Believed to have originated in South Africa, watermelons are best during summer. The coolest fruit needs no introduction. It has always been on our list of favourites and it will continue to remain so. The cool fruit requires temperatures of 25°C or above to grow and is available in varieties like sweet, bland and bitter.
Watermelon is known as a super juicy and is commonly red in the inside but can be found with orange, yellow or even white flesh. It has 93 per cent water, loads of vitamins but only 6 per cent sugar and is considered as a natural toner and rehydrating agent during the hot summer months. It prevents ageing, reduces the risk of stroke, lowers blood pressure level and strengthens immune system.
Watermelon contains a chemical namely citrulline that reduces arterial stiffness and reduces the accumulation of bad cholesterol, thereby preventing heart diseases. It is also widely used in skin care and beauty expert Shahnaz Hussain will give you important tips on that.
Watermelon extract is used in beauty products such as shower gels, lipsticks, foam bath and lip glosses due to its hydrating properties. It moisturises oily skin, without making it oily and closes the pores.
Nature is not only the best physician but also the best cosmetologist, giving us the necessary fruits for different seasons. Watermelon is a real thirst-quencher during summer. Extract the juice, add one or two small chunks of watermelon, lemon juice and crushed ice. One teaspoon rose water can be added for flavour. Instead of having rich desserts, take fresh fruits. Watermelon not only makes a delicious dessert, it also helps to lose weight.
Watermelon can also be applied on the skin and hair for its beauty benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as amino acids. These help to keep the skin healthy, improve blood circulation and delay degeneration keeping the skin youthful for a longer period of time. Amino acids help to promote hair growth and keep the scalp healthy. It also contains minerals and antioxidants, which not only moisturise and nourish the skin but also help to delay ageing signs.
Watermelon seals moisture in the skin and keeps it hydrated. In fact, it helps to soothe and improve dry and scaly skin. Applying watermelon pulp or juice helps to soften and smoothen the skin.
Watermelon is a powerful skin toner and also moisturises the skin. It suits all skin types. In summer, it has a cooling, soothing and refreshing effect on the skin.
Apply watermelon pulp on the skin, or add it to fruit packs. Leave on for 20-30 minutes and wash off with plain water. You can apply a watermelon and honey mask on the face for extra moisturisation.
Watermelon pulp can also be applied on the hair to promote hair growth as it contains amino acids. It contains a lot of citrulline that increases the level of arginine and is therefore good for promoting hair growth.
It also has a cleansing action and promotes blood circulation to hair follicles. The Vitamin C in it ensures that enough iron is there in red blood cells to carry oxygen to hair follicles. Collagen is also needed for healthy hair growth and watermelon helps in collagen formation.
For treating sunburn and suntans, prepare a pack of equal portion of watermelon and cucumber and apply that on your face for 15 minutes and wash it off with clean and fresh water.
As already mentioned, watermelon helps to tone the skin and also completes the cleansing process. The juice may be chilled and applied on the face with cotton wool to tighten the skin making it firm and glowing.
