A very large percentage of women - and a few men - have to deal with, and often despise, the same problem... that lumpy, orange-peel look to the skin known as cellulite. They search and wish for a quick fix to get rid of it.
Unfortunately, short of expensive surgery (which even then is not a guarantee) there is no quick fix. Even though there is a strong link between cellulite and liposuction in many people's minds, that is not a very effective treatment for this particular kind of fat buildup. Similarly, although meso therapy has been slowly gaining in popularity, there is little proof that it is actually effective.
There are, however, a number of things you can do to help reduce the unsightly appearance of cellulite, and also to help prevent any more from building up; even more than a few natural alternatives. Those are the things this article will cover.
What is Cellulite?
First you need to understand at least basically what cellulite is. It is a buildup of fat cells (and possibly other substances, depending on who you ask) between the connective tissues under the skin. This is why you get the classic "dimpled" effect instead of a "smooth" layer of fat.
For those seeking the "miracle cure," the bad news is that the best cellulite remedy, and to help prevent more in the future, is proper diet and plenty of exercise. It is, after all, basically just fat buildup. However, cellulite can be some of the hardest fat to get rid of, and that is where these remedies come into play; to help "focus" your body's fat burning and removal efforts where you want them.
Cellulite Body Wraps
One of the classic natural cellulite remedies is a leg (or arm) wrap. The most popular is the coffee wrap. Take warm, used caffeinated coffee grounds, and spread them over the area you wish to treat, keeping as much of the grounds in place as possible (though most will inevitably fall off). Then wrap the area - seaweed is said to be best, but cling wrap will work as well. Allow this to set for about half an hour, then rinse clean. Other sources say to mix the grounds with a lotion and apply to the area, allow it to set, then rinse clean.
Body Brushing to Fight Cellulite
Another cellulite treatment that is easy to do and very effective is dry body brushing. Using a soft, natural bristle brush – some companies even have a specifically made cellulite brush – simply run it over the affected areas in long, sweeping strokes, always going in the direction of the heart. This aids with circulation and also helps to "break up" the offending fat deposits.
Aromatherapy Cellulite Treatment
On the aromatherapy side, there are a number of therapeutic essential oils you can choose from that can help with cellulite buildups. Juniper, cypress and lemon are among the oils held to be most effective; oregano, grapefruit, fennel, thyme, rosemary, sage, geranium, patchouli, and lavender are also said to help.
The best carrier oil to use when dealing with cellulite is, without dispute, grape seed oil. The prepared oil should be massaged into the skin well, as the massaging itself is highly beneficial to help with cellulite removal.
Help Reduce Cellulite through Diet
Essential fatty acids are also important for the reduction of cellulite; you can help with this topically, adding evening primrose oil or fish oil to any formula you make; you can also take these as supplements to your diet, as well as making sure to eat plenty of fish. Vitamins C, E, and A can also help when taken as supplements.
And, as with most body problems, be sure to drink plenty of water, to help wash out any toxin buildup and to keep your body well hydrated.
Sources:
The Complete Book of Essential Oil & Aromatherapy, by Valerie Ann Worwood (New World Library, 1991)
The Herbal Drugstore, by Linda B. White, MD, and Steven Foster (Rodale, 2003)
Prescription for Herbal Healing, by Phyllis A. Balch (Avery, 2002)
Natural Beauty at Home, by Janice Cox (Owl Books, 2002)
Aromatherapy for Women, by Maggie Tisserand (Healing Arts Press, 1996)
Genevieve Kiger - Genevieve is passionate about all manner of natural subjects; herbs, herbalism, aromatherapy, and general natural health and body care.
Join the Conversation