Honey
Natural honey has been used by mankind for the past 2,500 years. Although, it is well-known for being used with tea … its benefits are far reaching. For years, people have relied on honey to soothe their aching throat, sweeten their foods or beverages, but it has also been used to treat wounds and gastrointestinal problems? Moreover, in another Scope This article, "Facts About Honey," within our August 2010 issue, it is mentioned that due to its nutraceutical content, honey is very effective in removing free radicals from our body. Plus, it contains alpha hydroxy acids, which help to gently exfoliate the skin and is an ideal for people with sensitive skin.

Salmon
Salmon is another superfood mentioned within our "Fab Five Superfoods" article from our June 2011 issue. Like walnuts, this tasty fish is packed-full of omega-3 fatty acids – making it a great choice when considering foods that are heart-healthy. In addition, salmon is a good source of easily digestible proteins; fatty acids; vitamins D, A, and some B vitamins; and minerals like selenium, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, and iron.

Oats
In our July 2011 issue of DERMASCOPE, oats was featured as our ingredient of the month within our Scope This department. This distinction was justifiable due to oats providing everyday benefits for both the heart and body. Adding it to a person's daily diet can contribute weight lose and the lowering of cholesterol, preventing arterial hardening which contributes to coronary artery disease. They increase an individual's consumption of whole grains and are potentially full of proteins. Oats contain nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and thiamin that helps a person to lose weight instantly. The benefits of oats on the skin are extensive. Oats are one of the best natural treatments for dry skin; plain rolled oats can be used to make a gentle and very effective natural skin cleanser, facial scrub, and soothing facial mask; and as a cleanser and/or exfoliant, it provides the bonus of a natural, healthy glow.

Dark Chocolate
This decadent ingredient continues to find a place in the aesthetics industry as a staple in skin and body treatments. It can also be found in skin care products in a variety of forms: face creams, face masks, body wraps, moisturizers and lip balm … just to name a few. Dark chocolate is a potent antioxidant which defends against free radicals, staving off lines, wrinkles and discoloration. In addition, it is also believed to help reduce blood pressure, so this delicious food not only protects and nourishes the outside of our bodies but the inside as well. In fact, within our March 2012 issue, the nutritional value of this food elevated it to being included as one of the "Top Superfoods That Provide Iron."

Blueberries
Sweet blueberries do not just make smoothies and cereal taste better; they contain high levels of antioxidants that make the body feel good. In our March 2011 issue, we highlighted blueberries as our ingredient of the month. Within this feature, it was pointed out that by adding blueberries to one's diet it could help cleanse the blood, strengthen the immune system, help with digestion, and protect and repair the skin. Additionally, some research shows that blueberries can possibly slow degenerative diseases associated with aging.