Focusing on natural anti-cellulite remedies, our local erboristeria (organic pharmacy) owner, Dr. Fernando Russo from Erboristeria Antica San Simone, shares some insight. According to Dr. Russo, it is important to understand that cellulite develops over time and evolves its own characteristics. Cellulite is generally classified into three groups: compact, soft, and inflamed. Compact cellulite is present mostly in the buttocks, thighs, and knee area and pulls the skin inwards to create those infamous dimples. Soft cellulite, which appears most often in the thighs and arms, is a result of broken connective fibers and can be accompanied by stretch marks. A result of compact cellulite’s progression over time, soft cellulite is most evident in women over 40. Inflamed cellulite is painful and often caused by insufficient circulatory flow.
Dr. Russo recommends a variety of herbal therapies that can lessen the appearance of cellulites. Drink two to four daily cups of herbal tea containing a mixture of blueberry (25g), Dog Rose (25g), Burdock Root (25g), Birch leaves (15g), and liquorish root (10g) for overall cellulite reduction. The use of anti-inflammatory herbs such as Asiatic Pennywort, Horse-chestnut, Gingko Biloba, and Ivy promote healthier skin and circulatory flow by increasing the permeability of capillaries. Echinacea and Birch help the elasticity of skin and help drain unnecessary liquids from the body. Furthermore, the nutrients in grapevine have properties that assist in the overall health of capillaries. Regular snacking on common fruits like pineapples, rich in bromeliad, and black raspberries, rich in bioflavonoid, can be useful in the reabsorption of harmful coagulates and in protecting blood vessels.
Dr. Fernanda Russo is the owner of Erboristeria Antica San Simona (Via Ghibellina 190/R). She studied both conventional and homeopathic medicine and has an extensive knowledge of herbs and aromatherapy. She graciously shares her knowledge through private consultations at her shop, which also sells teas, candles, incense, soaps, and much more.