Finding Comfort in Autumn:
A Little Spice, A Little Skincare Wisdom
Have you ever had a song pop into your head simply because it fits the season? With autumn leaves drifting past the window and the mornings growing cooler, I'm in the mood for warm drinks, familiar spices, and a little extra care for my skin.
Over the next few months, I'm taking a closer look at some familiar kitchen spices and the ways they've become part of our food, traditions, and everyday lives. We'll explore cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, and a few others along the way. I'll share a little history, some interesting facts, and simple recipes to bring a taste of the season into your home.
But first, let's talk about your skin.
A Little Autumn Wisdom for Your Skin
Summer and autumn ask different things of our skin. The lighter lotions that felt just right in July may not be enough when the air turns cool and dry. Add indoor heating to the mix, and you may notice that your skin feels tight, rough, or a little less comfortable. This is a good time to take a look at your routine and see what needs adjusting.
Here are a few simple things to keep in mind:
Choose a gentle cleanser. Very hot water and harsh cleansers can leave your skin feeling dry. Try lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser instead.
Give your moisturizer a little help. Applying it while your skin is still slightly damp helps hold on to moisture. A nourishing body butter or body oil can be a welcome addition, especially on areas that tend to feel dry.
Show the rest of your body some attention. Hands, elbows, knees, and feet can become especially dry as the weather changes. Give them a little extra care, too!
Notice what your skin is telling you. If your usual lotion isn't cutting it, consider a richer moisturizer. Small seasonal adjustments may be all you need.
And one more thing: just because a spice is wonderful in your tea or apple cider doesn't mean it belongs in your skincare. Cinnamon and other warming spices can irritate skin when applied directly, especially in homemade mixtures. Let's enjoy those spices in the kitchen and leave our skin to gentler ingredients.
A Little Cinnamon History
Did you know? Cinnamon has been traded for thousands of years and was once considered a precious commodity. Ancient Egyptians used it in embalming mixtures, while its value in the spice trade helped make it a prized ingredient long before it became a familiar pantry staple.
Here's another interesting bit: The cinnamon you buy comes from the inner bark of trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus. After the bark is harvested and dried, it curls into the familiar cinnamon sticks we use in cooking. So that little stick in your apple cider started out as tree bark!
Something Warm for the Season: Cinnamon Apple Sipper
Now for the cozy part! This simple apple drink brings together the familiar flavors of fall without requiring a long list of ingredients.
Ingredients
2 cups apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
1 cinnamon stick
2 thin slices of fresh ginger (optional)
1 thin slice of orange (optional)
Directions
Pour the apple cider or juice into a small saucepan.
Add the cinnamon stick and ginger, if using.
Warm gently over low heat for 10–15 minutes. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil.
Pour into your favorite mug and add an orange slice if you'd like.
That's it! Simple, warming, and just right for a cool autumn afternoon. If you prefer a little less sweetness, use unsweetened apple juice and adjust it to your taste.
As we move toward winter, I'll be sharing more about the spices that bring familiar flavors and aromas to our seasonal cooking. I hope you'll find a new favorite recipe or learn something surprising about an ingredient you may already have in your pantry.
And while you're enjoying those autumn flavors, remember to give your skin a little seasonal attention, too. A gentle cleanser, a moisturizer suited to the cooler weather, and a few minutes of care can go a long way toward keeping your skin comfortable as the seasons change.
As the weather turns colder, give your skin a little extra love. Our gentle body scrub and nourishing body oils (lavender and rose) are lovely additions to your winter skincare routine, helping your skin feel soft, smooth, and cared for through the drier months. Your skin deserves a little pampering, too. Why not give them a try?
With green blessings and gentle care,
Gloria
Disclaimer:
The Food & Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements made on this website. The information provided by this website, or this company is for informational purposes only; it is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your physician or other medical professionals and is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a health care provider and should not be construed as individual medical advice. Always consult your physician or health care provider before using any herbal products.
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