In my native Romania, our springtime health and beauty routine includes eating plenty of green salads. The antioxidants in lettuce, spinach, and other greens cleanse our body of free radicals—unstable molecules produced by environmental toxins, inflammation, and other stresses. Free radicals ultimately lead to cellular damage, aging, and disease. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, plant-derived antioxidants promote the growth and repair of skin cells. Green Beauty: Arugula and Walnut Salad The arugula in this salad is packed with the antioxidant vitamins A and C. In addition to stimulating collagen renewal, these vitamins reduce inflammation, one of the prime causes of visibly aging skin. The addition of walnuts provides another healthy serving of antioxidants from omega-3 oils. Omega-3s help prevent wrinkles and improve skin texture by reversing free radical damage, stimulating blood circulation, and stabilizing hormone levels. The vitamin E in the walnuts and the shallot also helps nurture smooth, supple skin. 1 large shallot, chopped1/4 cup walnut oil or olive oil1 tablespoon Champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar3 cups arugula1 cup walnuts Whisk together the oil, vinegar, and chopped shallot in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Mix the arugula and walnuts in a large bowl, drizzle with dressing, and toss.   Revive Tired Skin with Extra Helpings of Anti-aging Nutrients The stresses of winter can leave skin looking dull and worn-out. To restore the bloom of health to your complexion, make sure your skincare products contain hearty doses of nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are some of the most important all-natural and organic ingredients to look for:

• Apples
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Omega-3 oils (from sources such as olive oil, walnuts, and avocado oil)•
• Pomegranate seed
• Sea buckthorn seed
• Soap bark
• White tea