Cucumber is known to be the best fruit of summer. It is the most important ingredient in our summer salad recipes. Many people also enjoy eating it raw in salads or as a juice. It has a cool and soothing effect which is great during the hot weather. Apart from this, it has many other health benefits. It has about 90% water content and serves as a great diuretic. Moreover, it works wonders and is considered as a crucial element of the skin diet. Cucumber belongs to the gourd family along with other fruits like pumpkin and melons. The scientific name of cucumber is Cucumis sativus. The fruit is roughly cylindrical in shape with tapering ends. It comes in two types, the slicing type and the pickling one. There are different species of cucumber differing in size and shape. However, their basic constituents remain the same. They are a great source of vitamin C, Vitamin E, and many minerals like potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Calories in cucumber are less and that is the reason it forms an important part of a healthy diet. Cucumber can create wonders for your skin. It is the best natural remedy for treating spots and scars on the skin. With its hydrating and astringent properties, it acts as the most effective moisturizer for your skin. Following are some of its benefits: Cleanser It acts as a natural cleanser for the skin. Applying its juice on the skin cleanses the skin thoroughly and frees the pores, leaving the skin soft and supple. Consuming fresh cucumber juice can also have a cleaning action in the body. It frees your body from the various chemical toxins including uric acid. Take equal quantities of cucumber juice, lemon juice, and rose water. Blend them well together. Rub the mixture on your face gently in circular motion. Leave it for 5 minutes and then wash with warm water. You will get a cleaner, smoother, and glowing skin. You can also use cucumber juice with milk for cleansing your skin. Moisturizer The high water content in cucumber gives it the unique hydrating and moisturizing property. It nourishes the skin and is perfect for your skin on a daily basis. It is rich in amino acids and mineral salts which help in revitalizing the skin. It can be used in the morning or night, however you prefer. It helps reveal the radiance of your skin. Skin Toner It is just perfect for toning the skin. It keeps the skin healthy and fit, and makes it look younger. Fresh cucumber juice along with honey if applied to the skin on a regular basis can act as great toner for your skin and also lighten your complexion. Cucumber Face Mask There are a number of ways in which you can prepare this face mask. It can be used with honey, milk, rose water, or eggs. It serves as an effective skin aid. Here's how to make an anti-blemish face mask. Pulp the cucumber in a blender. Add some fresh mint leaves and blend together to make a soft paste. Beat egg white until stiff. Add it to the cucumber mixture. Apply on your face and neck, avoiding the eyes. Leave it for 15 minutes and then wash it off with water. Pat dry. This is like a refreshing treat for your skin. Cucumber for Acne Treatment Peel the cucumber and make thin slices. Put these slices in a bowl of water and leave it for about an hour. Now, sift the cucumbers and your juice is ready. You can drink this juice or use it to wash your face. It acts as a cleanser effective enough to treat acne. It is effective in treating a number of skin ailments. Also, it helps to reduce the swelling or puffiness around the eyes, and also works well for treating dark circles under eyes. However, it should be used on a regular basis for quick and long-lasting results.