Why Cool Moms Should Love Cool Cucumbers

Cucumbers, it would seem, are the unsung heroes of the summer garden.  More than just a beauty treatment, cucumbers can clean crayons off the wall, act as a caffeine free pick me up for the busy mom, and reduce the appearance of cellulite for those afternoons at the pool or beach. There is even documentation of the existence of cucumbers in many ancient civilizations including Greece, Turkey, China, and Sumer.  Ancient peoples used cucumbers for food, a facial and skin cleanser, and as the base ingredient in many household cleaners.  Because cucumbers are inexpensive and readily available, there is no reason to NOT take advantage of all the wonderful things they can do.

Cucurbitin and fatty oil in the seeds

• Have diuretic properties and may be used to treat constipation
• Promote healthy digestion
• Have been used to expel intestinal worms including tapeworm
• Sooth irritated skin

High potassium level and moderate amounts of vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, phosphorous, and magnesium

• Stave off hunger.  Ancient European trappers used cucumbers to keep from starving on long expeditions.  Take a cue from them and bring sliced cucumbers on your next road trip or offer them as a healthy snack.
• Provide a natural, stimulant free energy boost
• Replenish electrolytes as effectively as power drinks but without the artificial colors and high fructose corn syrup

Enzymes and Phytochemicals

• Relieve burns and skin irritations as effectively as aloe.  Place a slice directly on the affected area or put it in the blender to make a salve
• Tighten collagen in your skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite, swelling, puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles.  For a low cost, 5 minute spa treatment, bring a sliced cucumber to a boil, remove from heat, and lean over the steam.  The chemicals will mix with the steam to rejuvenate your complexion and the fresh scent will leave you feeling relaxed.
• Kill bad breath.  Just place a slice under the roof of your mouth for 30 seconds.  The phytochemicals will kill the bacteria that causes odor.
• Revitalizes and conditions skin
• Can be used to polish shoes.  Rub a slice on your favorite pair and watch them shine.

A "cool" food that stays up to 20 degrees cooler than the external temperature

• Soothes burns, rashes, and other skin irritations such as diaper rash
• May prevent overheating by acting as a natural refrigerant when ingested

           

Cucumber skins

• Erase crayon markings and can also erase pen and ink mistakes or stains.  Just rub the cucumber on the mark and watch it disappear!
• Contain trans-2-noneal chemicals that repel cockroaches

Cool Ideas

• Cucumbers are known to lower high blood pressure and may lower cholesterol.
• Remove tarnish by rubbing it with a cucumber slice.
• Lubricate squeaking door hinges and cabinets with a slice of cucumber.
• Prevent bathroom mirror fog by rubbing a slice of cucumber on the glass.  It will also leave a fresh, clean scent that lasts.

* Take precautions when using cucumber medicinally.  Cucumbers may cause or aggravate a pre-existing electrolyte imbalance or dehydration.  Pregnant and nursing women should consult a doctor before beginning medicinal use of cucumbers.