3 massage tools to try
This eager veggie appears early in spring, and boasts a whole host of body and brain-boosting benefits
Massaging your face is a lovely self-care ritual that not only helps you feel more relaxed and relieves tension in your face, but also benefits skin. It does this by boosting circulation to create glow, helping to drain toxins in your face, and combatting puffiness. While you can massage with your hands, these helpful tools make light work of the exercise. Use a light oil or moisturiser on your skin, and then work upwards and outwards across your face. Working into the jaw line, along the cheekbones and across the forehead can be particularly beneficial.
Part of the nutritious cruciferous vegetable family, the radish is renowned for its health-giving qualities, along with its peppery flavour. This versatile veggie can be eaten raw, cooked or even pickled. Radishes contain large quantities of vitamin C and are also purveyors of energising potassium, which can help to reduce blood pressure and the anxiety that accompanies it. These bright red spheres are low in calories and low on the food waste scale, as you can even cook and eat their green tops. Our expert nutritionist, Alison Cullen, is on hand to share the many advantages adding radishes to your dishes may bring…
Soothe inflammation
‘Radishes add to the benefits of a plantbased diet in countering the inflammation that is part of so many degenerative diseases, including many mental health issues,’ says Cullen. ‘A juicy radish as a regular part of your menu plan will also stimulate bile production and help you to metabolise those healthy fats that keep your brain cells functioning well.’
Boost blood flow
‘The natural nitrates in radishes help to improve blood flow to your vital organs,’ adds Cullen, ‘including the brain, which always benefits from a boost of slickly delivered blood, bearing its gifts of oxygen, glucose and other nutrients. These natural nitrates are also thought to have antimicrobial qualities, which help to prevent the growth of bad bacteria. Note that natural nitrates differ in their health effects from nitrates that are added to foods such as processed meats, which are best avoided.’ avogel.co.uk
The Greek name for the radish, Raphamus, means ‘appearing quickly’, as they are often the first vegetable to appear in the spring.
Why not grow your own spicy radish sprouts? Perfect for adding to soups and salads. A.vogel’s Biosnacky Little Radish Seeds are ready to eat after about five days. £1.99, avogel.co.uk