For years before medicines were available, natural remedies were used to treat the symptoms of all conditions. Rosacea is a condition that produces symptoms that can be treated with natural products. Although these products do not treat the underlying causes for Rosacea, the temporary relief is helpful to some.
The cucumber has been used as an antioxidant for skin care since the last 1500s. An English herbalist named John Gerard discovered that cucumbers were helpful in reducing swelling and redness caused to the face. It is a cool remedy that is applied directly to the skin. For years we have seen pictures of women in salons or spas with their hair wrapped up in towels, masks on the faces, and cucumbers over their eyes. The Cucumber is an ingredient in many facial creams and lotions. It not only works as a cooling agent, but as an astringent as well. Its main component is water, but it also contains vitamins A, C, and E. Traces of caffeic acid are also found in the cucumber and along with the other ingredients, it works to reduce the swelling and remove skin irritants. The outer layer of the cucumber or the skin con-taints potassium, silica, and magnesium. Silica is a necessary component for the connective tissues in the face and help to maintain clear skin.
There are different ways that cucumbers can be applied to the skin to prevent Rosacea symptoms. The most common method is to take whole slices of chilled cucumbers and simply lay them over the affected areas of the eyes and cheeks for around 15 minutes to reduce swelling and redness. Patients suffering from Ocular Rosacea would find the most benefit from this method. Cleopatra was said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. She often mixed cucumber with olive oil, milk, and honey to make a mud mask. However it is used, even if its eaten, the cucumber has healing properties to fight against Rosacea symptoms.