health

What is a loofah?

Happy new year! The weather is finally feeling a lot like winter and I am finally bundling up in warm coats, gloves, and scarves!

I often talk about loofahs when I discuss detoxification. So, today I wanted to share a little bit more about what a loofah is, how it is used & why its daily use can be beneficial. 

Loofah (or spelled luffa) is a plant fiber derived from the species L. aegyptiaca & L. acutangula. The loofahs can vary in size and shape but its rough bristol fibers are what makes this dried plant fiber marketable as a detoxification aid. When the dry loofah is applied with very light pressure to dry skin in a circular motion (dry skin brushing), moving always towards the heart, it stimulates lymphatic flow. The lymphatic system, in short, is a vital part of the circulatory system that carries a fluid called lymph towards the heart. Lymph is similar to blood in that it contains white blood cells but it also contains waste products & cell debris. Hence, it is vital that are our lymph is efficiently flowing towards the heart.

                                  Daily dry skin brushing with a natural loofah aids in daily detoxification

                                  Daily dry skin brushing with a natural loofah aids in daily detoxification

Some of the benefits of dry skin brushing include:

  1. Stimulation of lymph & blood flow
  2. Removes dead skin cells & opens our skin pores
  3. Aids in cellulite removal and improves skin tone/appearance
  4. Overall invigorating physically

Remember to use the loofah on dry skin and keep the loofah dry for maximum use. This discourages the growth of bacteria and keeps the loofah clean. You can use your loofah on wet skin or apply water to the loofah during uses. However, it is when the fibers are dry that they best stimulate lymphatic flow and remove dead skill cells. Also remember to replace your loofah every month if you plan on using it daily!