Home Remedies and Herbs for Cellulite

Cellulite is medically known as adiposis edematosa and is the herniation of subcutaneous fat within the fibrous connective tissue that manifests topographically as skin dimpling and nodularity.¹ Simply put, cellulite is fat that collects in pockets just below the surface of the skin. It’s much more common in women than in men and usually forms around the hips, thighs, buttocks and back of the arms.² Cellulite is not a serious medical condition but is considered by some to be unsightly, making the affected person self-conscious about their appearance.¹

What Causes Cellulite?

Everyone has layers of fat under their skin so even thin people can be subject to excessive cellulite. It happens when collagen fibers that connect fat to the skin stretch, break down or pull tight, allowing fat cells to bulge out. This causes the appearance of orange peel or cottage cheese with the skin looking dimpled and lined.^1,3 Cellulite causes are usually attributed to these seven factors:^1,2,3

• Genetic imprinting
• Diet
• Energy burning
• Inactive lifestyle
• Hormone changes
• Dehydration
• Smoking

Suggestions for avoiding cellulite include:^2,3

• Healthy eating with a diet being rich in vegetables, fruits and fiber
• Regular exercise with muscle-toning practice
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Keeping hydrated with plenty of water
• Not smoking

Without question, a lot of excessive cellulite is a genetic result. With some people, cellulite runs in the family and cannot be totally avoided. There is no complete cure for cellulite, however surgical procedures including liposuction should be a last resort.

Cellulite Symptoms

Symptoms of cellulite are very visual. Cellulite in early stages appears as dimpled or bumpy skin. As the condition advances and weight is gained, cellulite takes on an orange peel look or an appearance resembling cottage cheese.^1,3 Mild cellulite can only be seen when the skin is pinched. More-severe cellulite shows as rumpled skin with peaks and valleys. Advanced cellulite has a hanging or drooping appearance and worsens as the skin loses elasticity.²

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Cellulite

Cellulite natural treatments and solutions are available through a number of sources. The best natural treatments for cellulite include:

• Gotu Kola - This is a plant that grows in tropical, swampy areas and originates in southern Asia. It’s been a known as an herbal medicine for centuries and promotes collagen production in the skin, making it an ideal treatment for cellulite.
• Cayenne Pepper - Cayenne pepper is a hot spice generally used in cooking. It contains the substance capsaicin which is a pain reliever and improves circulation. Cayenne normally comes in dried powder form but the dried peppers are commonly available in stores. Be cautious, though. A little cayenne goes a long way.
• Ginkgo Biloba - Ginkgo Biloba is an herbal remedy that originates from a Chinese tree with the same name. It’s highly effective as a circulatory treatment which helps control cellulite production.
• Dandelion - Dandelions appear in practically every American lawn and are generally considered a common weed. However, dandelions are rich in nutrients and have been used in medicinal teas for thousands of years. Dandelion supplements help reduce the appearance of cellulite.
• Apple Cider Vinegar - This is nearly a universal cure-all. Apple cider vinegar taken in a diluted drink has proven qualities in controlling cellulite.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids - These fatty acids are found in rich fish like salmon. The compounds in Omega-3 significantly contribute to a healthy diet which is one of the main factors in preventing and controlling cellulite.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cellulite/basics/definition/con-20029901
2. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/cellulite
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002033.htm