Cool, refreshing Cucumbers

Mon Dieu!

The humble cucumber was a bit of a star in ancient times, even getting a mention in the bible. Believed to have its origins in India, the cucumber is a well-travelled veg, brought to the Americas by none other than Christopher Columbus himself. From there it migrated North until famous French explorer found it growing in abundance on the site of what then became Montreal. Mon Dieu!

The Nutritional Bit

Drenched in vitamins a, b and c and minerals iodine, manganese and sulphur - the cucumber is more than just a tasty salad filler.

With similar properties to celery, cucumbers are an anti-inflammatory, diuretic veggie which means they’re great for losing pesky water retention as well as getting hydrating and protecting the skin. In the tummy, cucumbers help dissolve uric acid and are soothing to those with ulcerative colitis.

‘I’m ready for my close up…’

Lots of countries, especially in Asia, still use fresh cucumber strips externally on the skin as part of regular beauty treatments. But you don’t have to go all the way to Bangkok for it. Here’s a very simple face mask that you can make at home.

Hydrating Face Mask with Cucumbers

Blend 1 tablespoon of fresh cream with equal amounts of the following in a food processor:

cumcumber
melon
pumpkin seeds

Apply evenly to the face, but not on the eyes or mouth.

Leave for 30 minutes.

Rinse off.

Got a picture of yourself looking silly in this face mask? Send it to fruitcakes@zumojuicebar.com, we promise we won’t put it up online and embarrass you… not.