Although everyone should learn to love and appreciate their bodies, there is a reason the word ‘cellulite’ makes some people cringe. While it is partly genetic, the cottage cheese cellulite appearance could be the result of hormonal issues, diet, other lifestyle choices, and less talked about – toxins. Even some people with relatively no fat on them have cellulite lurking on their thighs or hips.

While you could spend hundreds on the latest chemical-topical solution that may or may not do any good, you could also improve the condition of your skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite naturally, with food. And while reducing cellulite may not be super easy to achieve (especially in today’s ‘perfect body’ society), home remedies for cellulite reduction do exist.

An estimated 85% of adult women have cellulite, and despite it’s prevalence, we still have much to learn about the cosmetic issue. Cellulite is fat stored just under the skin’s surface. It has a unique appearance, like the dimpled surface of an orange peel or cottage cheese. It is most common in women and usually appears after puberty. For many people, it’s a source of extreme embarrassment.

Try some of these natural solutions to at least minimize the appearance.

1. Home Remedies for Cellulite Reduction – Remove Toxins

Your body is bombarded with toxins. Toxins accumulation comes from decades of exposure to packaged foods, refined sugars, chemicals, pesticides, pollutants inside and outside your home, pharmaceuticals – the list goes on. Needless to say, most people are in desperate need of a body-cleanse or toxin removal. But what does this have to do with cellulite?

The body stores toxins in fat to help minimize how much toxicity your vital organs are exposed to. The dimples and pockets of cellulite are also full of toxins. Toxicity accumulated in your body over the years will show in your cellulite (and a myriad of other unpleasant symptoms).

So what should you do for cellulite reduction? Simple: remove the toxins and prevent further build up of toxins. Here are 4 methods for how to cleanse your body. Search “detox” in the NaturalSociety search bar for many more simple tips.

2. Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Tomatoes are extremely high in lycopene, which can prevent the breakdown of collagen in the skin. Dr. Oz reports that tomato paste is particularly rich in lycopene. But, if you opt for paste, look for one in a glass container or make your own to avoid the toxic BPA.

3. Coconut Oil and Dry Brushing

A very popular combination among home remedies for cellulite, dry skin brushing while moisturizing with (and ingesting) extra virgin coconut oil is a widely used solution. To dry skin brush correctly, start higher lymph node areas like the armpits/groin, then move to the outer regions. Always move towards the heart. except when dry skin brushing the buttocks area. Dry skin brushing is so effective because it tightens the epidermis and helps to breakup the toxic material cellulite is composed of.

One individual on EarthClinic shares her positive experience using coconut oil and dry skin brushing:

“Organic coconut oil and dry brushing which is very popular in Europe for circulation and for eliminating cellulite…My massuese mentioned to me you always brush in the direction of the lymphatic system so that it can circulate it out of the system quickly also increase you water intake before beginning the dry brush massage this help the system elminate toxin. For problem areas I used to spend at least ten minutes total and followed by a hot shower and I step out of the hot shower and while my pores are still open I put coconut oil all over my body and have noticed a dramatic decrease very close to eliminating all the cellulite. So it does work.”

4. Drink More Water for Cellulite Reduction

Hydration is crucial for overall health—from digestion to your skin’s healthy glow and texture. Being fully hydrated can smooth your skin’s surface. Try consuming foods with higher water content like melons, cucumbers, watermelon and leafy greens. Not only are these foods high in water content, but they are also low in calories – helping you to lose weight and control fat stores.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water and a bit of honey and rub on the areas needed, then rinse with warm water. It may not get rid of cellulite for good, but it should help reduce the appearance. Additionally, try making a body wrap: mix ACV and water in equal parts, and then rub it on the area. Afterward, wrap the areas in plastic wrap and a warm towel for 1 hour, then rinse. Other than being used for cellulite reduction, the benefits of apple cider vinegar are overwhelming – don’t skip this potential solution!

6. Ginkgo Biloba

This plant has been used medicinally for centuries. One of green tea’s many health benefits is in encouraging good circulation. Good circulation means healthier skin and a more uniform skin texture. Improving circulation will allow for a more effective transfer of stored fat from cellulite to muscle tissue, enabling it to be burned and used as energy.

7. Green Tea

Green tea can speed your metabolism and help you burn fat by stopping the production of fat-absorbing enzymes. But, catechins found in green and white teas can also reduce insulin resistance. Drinking three cups a day could increase energy expenditure and help you to burn an extra 80 calories in the next 24 hours. Try tea in the morning in place of coffee.

Cellulite can make anyone feel self-conscious and burn through their wallets, but know that you don’t have to. The above solutions cost very little money and are accompanied by a countless other health benefits. Don’t give another dollar for expensive and questionable creams before trying some of the solutions.

And of course with any health problem, always consume plenty of healthful foods, avoid/reduce stress, and exercise regularly. This will also help with cellulite reduction while improving your overall health. Check back later for more home remedies for cellulite.

SF Source Natural Society January 27 2013