Cellulite is the appearance of a dimple-like or ripple-like skin surface resulting from uneven fat deposits in that area of the body. Cellulite is more common in women than in men, appearing in more than 90 percent of post-pubescent women. It is typically found in areas such as the buttocks or thighs. There are synthetic and herbal products on the market that claim to rid skin of this superficial nuisance. However, using them may not provide the results your after.
Causes
Cellulite is caused by fat deposits that are no different from the rest of the fat on your body. They reside in between fibrous strands that connect the skin to deeper tissue. When these fat deposits accumulate, they bulge, causing an outward push on the skin. Simultaneously, the fibrous tissues are pulling down, creating the dimpled or uneven appearance of skin. Cellulite can be increased by stress and physical inactivity.
Herbs
Herbs such as kelp are touted as helping to reduce cellulite. Kelp is said to help reduce the appearance of cellulite by stimulating the thyroid, thus causing the body to burn cellulite-causing fat. Ginkgo biloba is also said to increase your metabolism and burn fat. However, neither of these herbs can guarantee a localized treatment. In addition, some herbs, such as sweet clover and birch tea, claim to reduce cellulite by way of reducing fluid build-up. However, fluid build-up has nothing to do with cellulite, rendering these herbs useless in treating cellulite.
Touted Treatments
In addition to supplements and teas, you can apply these herbs via commercial products that use the herbs as an active ingredient in cellulite treatment. These products are part of a daily regimen, but no studies show that these creams can reduce cellulite. A procedure called mesotherapy also claims to treat cellulite reduction by injecting herbal solution, among other solutions, into the cellulite-ridden area. However, side effects are common with the injection, including infection, rash and uneven skin contour, according to MayoClinic.com. Some of the more useful treatments for cellulite, such as lasers, don't include herbs. However, the laser process requires treatment twice a week and will only produce results that last six months.
Considerations
Because cellulite is a superficial issue that cannot be prevented, it may be best to consider concealing options, such as over-the-counter makeup, in lieu of herbal practices that yield little to no substantial results. Exercise can also help, as this will reduce the amount of fat in your body, increase your muscle tone and help maintain skin texture, says MayoClinic.com. However, though exercise can limit the appearance of cellulite, it will not completely treat it.
Warning
Products, such as over-the-counter creams, that tout a variety of herbal enhancers, vitamins and nutrients may cause side effects. Speak with your physician before initiating any herbal treatment for cellulite. If you have already begun treatment and have experienced adverse reactions, such as skin rashes or irritation, discontinue use and consult your physician immediately.
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