5 Pumpkin Spice Inspired Recipes for Health & Home
Even in the 80+ degree weather we have been experiencing in the South (US), there is officially an undeniable shift in seasons! We were fortunate to have a storm roll in on the very first day of fall. The air was infused with that comforting crispness that we have been craving for weeks now.
Speaking of cravings, it is now pumpkin spice season…I think it started almost a month ago! But we are now moving into October, the “official” pumpkin time of year, so what better way to celebrate October than with some homemade pumpkin spice recipes that not only bring you all of the comforts of fall but also boost your wellness!!!
HEALTH BENEFITS OF PUMPKINS
Skincare Edition
So we all know that pumpkins are the best fall decor and taste great in pie (well, once you add all the extra spices, of course). But did you know they are also a powerhouse food for our skin!? Pumpkins are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene. Incorporating pumpkins into our autumn meals as well in DIY skin care can improve our skin texture, boost collagen, and reduce inflammation.
Below are 4 of my favorite ways that pumpkins can enhance our skin this fall season
Exfoliation:: pumpkins contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) that help to remove dead skin, promoting a brighter and smoother complexion
Anti-inflammatory:: as mentioned above pumpkins are loaded with vitamins, these specific vitamins found in pumpkins are known to have anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce redness in our skin and wound healing
Acne Control:: I am not too happy that still close to 40 my skin still gets some breakouts, kind of unfair, when the fine lines are also creeping in. But pumpkin can help with this too! Zinc and selenium are found in pumpkins and can help control oily, acne-prone skin.
Anti-aging:: speaking of those fine lines, pumpkins can help with that too, since they are rich in hydration and can help to moisturize the skin, giving your skin a natural glowy and youthful appearance.
PUMPKIN SKINCARE RECIPES
Pumpkin Glow Mask
This mask can help moisturize, exfoliate, and brighten your skin
PIN TO SAVE FOR LATER
What you need::
1 tbsp pumpkin puree *opt for organic*
1 tbsp plain yogurt
1 tsp raw honey
Pinch of cinnamon
Directions::
Mix the mashed pumpkin, honey, and yogurt in a bowl until you have a smooth paste.
Apply the mixture to your clean face and neck.
Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub
This scrub will help remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and smooth
What you need::
1/2 cup of cooked and mashed pumpkin
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/4 cup of coconut oil
1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
Directions::
Combine the mashed pumpkin, brown sugar, and coconut oil in a bowl.
If desired, add cinnamon for a pleasant scent and extra exfoliation.
Gently massage the mixture onto your damp skin in a circular motion.
Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cleaning Recipes
PUMPKIN SPICE MULTI-PURPOSE CLEANER
What you need::
1 capful of Young Living Thieves Household Cleaner*
10 drops orange
7 drops vanilla
5 drops cinnamon
Combine all ingredients in a 16oz glass bottle and fill with water, shake and spray!
**note:: I am an affiliate for Young Living, not team recruiting**
PUMPKIN SPICE ROOM SPRAY
What you need::
10 drops cinnamon
10 drops vanilla
7 drops orange
3 clove
3 drops of nutmeg essential oil
2 tablespoons of witch hazel
1/2 cup of distilled or filtered water
4-ounce (120 ml) glass spray bottle
combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce glass spray bottle, shake, and spray!
HEALTHY AUTUMN SNACK
Chocolate Pumpkin *spice* Snack Bites
What you need::
1 cup nut butter *almond or cashew work best*
2 tbsp organic pumpkin puree
2-3 tbsp coconut *or almond* flour
1 tsp pumpkin pie seasoning
2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup chopped pecans *for rolling*
Combine all ingredients, using a melon baller, scroop into balls, and roll in chopped pecans. Refrigerate up to 3 days.
Explore more In Autumn
looking for more nourishment & Support?
Join 100’s women each month with the Monthly Motherhood Mash-Up, my one-of-a-kind newsletter dedicated to the holistic wellness of every mom!
Receive practical tools and tips to incorporate into your wellness routines, learn how to use your intuition to find what practices are best, get real-life reflections on the messiness of motherhood, and so much more!