by Discover the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda for skin care. Our comprehensive guide to Ayurvedic skin care will introduce you to the principles, and remedies that can help balance your skin and enhance your natural radiance.
With a plethora of skincare products available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, some individuals prefer to enhance their skincare routine by incorporating natural products. That’s why many turn to Ayurvedic for skin care. Ayurveda offers a wealth of knowledge from ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, on using Ayurvedic skin care recipes to promote healthy skin, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to skincare.
Of course, beautiful skin isn’t just about what we put on it, it’s also about what we put in our bodies and how we care for our overall well-being. That’s why skincare is a holistic endeavor. And if you’re looking for ancient wisdom to help you achieve that radiance from the inside out, then Ayurveda is the perfect place to start.
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical system that blends natural remedies with alternative medicine. It’s been around for centuries and is based on the idea that our overall health and well-being are interconnected. That’s why Ayurveda looks at the whole person, from their gut health to their mental wellness and hormonal balance.
In this article, we’ll explore the skin challenges and take a closer look at the best herbs recommended by Ayurveda to boost skin health and help you glow from the inside out. Note that Ayurvedic medicine is not limited to skincare, but also explores the fundamental foundations of creation, including air, fire, water, and earth.
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Challenges of Maintaining a Healthy Skin
Achieving and maintaining healthy skin is an ongoing challenge. One of the most critical factors in achieving healthy skin is maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. A healthy and radiant complexion is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a reflection of good overall health.
However, our skin is exposed to numerous challenges on a daily basis. Exposure to UV light is one of the most significant challenges that our skin faces. UV radiation damages the cells of the skin, causing permanent damage commonly referred to as photodamage. Excessive exposure to UV light can lead to erythema, skin laxity, wrinkling, and impaired wound healing. Moreover, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can have long-term effects on skin health, including the development of skin cancer.
The dryness of the skin is another common challenge that we face. As our skin cells migrate towards the outer skin, the extracellular water content declines. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is a measure of skin dysfunction and is used to determine the severity of dry skin. Natural moisturizing factors (NMF) are necessary to retain moisture content, and the lack of fatty acids and prolonged washing with detergents can lead to dry skin.
Moreover, skin aging is a challenge that affects everyone as they get older. Intrinsic aging is difficult to distinguish from other effects that contribute to skin aging. The ridges on the interface between two skin layers are diminished, preventing the dermis from providing adequate mechanical support. Aged skin keratinocytes are relatively slow to differentiate and shed, altering their ability to maintain stratum corneum. These factors lead to an overall dull skin appearance and loss of the skin’s protective ability.
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Skincare Regimes as per Ayurvedic Dosha
In Ayurveda, the five elements notably, aether, air, earth, fire, and water are combined to form three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person has a unique combination of these doshas, known as their constitution or Prakruti, which can become imbalanced due to various external factors. Ayurvedic skincare uses natural ingredients such as plant extracts, herbs, and minerals to restore balance and harmony to the skin and body.
Vata skin tends to be dry, rough, and thin and requires warming and grounding. To balance Vata skin, it is recommended to stay hydrated, stick to a regular routine, incorporate relaxation techniques, consume healthy fats, and apply warm oil to the skin.
Pitta skin is sensitive and prone to inflammation, redness, and acne. To balance Pitta skin, it is recommended to consume cooling foods, limit sun exposure, and avoid alcohol, coffee, and spicy, oily, and fried foods. Coconut oil can also be applied to calm and cool the skin.
Kapha skin tends to be thick, oily, and prone to cystic acne. Regular detoxification, both internally and externally, is important for Kapha skin. Exfoliation with clay and mud masks, regular self-massage, exercise, and consumption of organic vegetables and fruits can help balance Kapha skin. Warming spices such as ginger, cayenne, and black pepper can also be added to food to stimulate digestion and cleanse the body of toxins.
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Ayurvedic Skin Treatments
If you’re looking for natural ways to improve your skin, herbs can be a great addition to your skincare routine. Here is a list of natural remedies that have therapeutic benefits and can help you achieve healthier, smoother, and more radiant skin.
Neem
Neem, also known as Indian lilac and some even called it ‘wonder tree’, is a member of the mahogany family Meliaceae. In India, Neem is renowned for its bitter tang and blood-purifying properties, celebrated in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits and curative powers. The tree is loaded with bioactive compounds like Nimbidin, Nimbin, and Azadiractin, and endowed with potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
From leaves to bark, seeds to flowers, every part of the Neem tree boasts unique and beneficial properties for skincare. Applying a paste of Neem leaves overnight can soothe sunburn and treat acne. A bath with water soaked in Neem leaves helps keep infections at bay.
Tulsi
Tulsi is a perennial plant with a lovely fragrance that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is commonly known as holy basil, tulsi, or tulasi, and in Fiji, it goes by the names tamole, damole, or domole. This plant is originally from the Indian subcontinent and has been extensively cultivated in the Southeast Asian tropics. Tulsi is highly valued for its traditional and religious significance, as well as for its essential oil. Its herbal tea is widely consumed and is known for its many health benefits. Additionally, Tulsi is recognized for its cosmetic benefits, as it can effectively combat wrinkles and other signs of aging. Applying tulsi juice can also help to treat fungal infections and leucoderma.
Chamomile
Chamomile, an herb widely regarded as safe, has been utilized for treating various health conditions, with a particular focus on stomach ailments and insomnia, in Ayurveda and Homoeopathy. Consumption of Chamomile tea before sleeping encourages deep, restorative sleep and helps with insomnia. Chamomile’s antibacterial characteristics make it useful in treating the common cold by providing a soothing impact that eases irritation of the nasal mucous membrane. The application of Chamomile topically to the skin is advantageous since its anti-inflammatory qualities aid in the reduction of eczema symptoms.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is much more than just a pretty scent. It’s a versatile powerhouse, packed with incredible health benefits that have been recognized for centuries. In fact, Ayurveda specifically mentions sandalwood as a skin-friendly ingredient, while both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda acknowledge its internal use for blood purification and energy-boosting properties.
The essential oil derived from Santalum album’s heartwood is a skincare superhero, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties. It’s no surprise that sandalwood is a popular ingredient in cosmetics, helping to brighten and condition the skin. It’s an effective remedy for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Plus, it’s incredibly soothing for irritated skin and can help reduce breakouts. And if that wasn’t enough, sandalwood also possesses cooling properties that can relieve the pitta dosha, according to Ayurvedic texts.
Amla
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is an excellent anti-aging herb due to its high vitamin C content and abundance of antioxidants. Amla is known to promote healthy skin and reduce signs of aging. In addition, it helps to tighten the skin and give it a radiant glow. Amla’s adaptogenic properties also protect the skin from the harmful effects of stress and pressure.
Giloy
Giloy or Guduchi is a herbaceous vine that’s native to tropical regions of the Indian subcontinent and belongs to the family Menispermaceae. For centuries, Ayurveda has been using this powerful plant to treat various disorders.
But that’s not all – Giloy is a true multitasker! It’s packed with potent anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation, revive skin tissue, boost the immune system, and enhance mental clarity. Whether you prefer taking it in tablet form or sipping on its juice, Giloy is a great addition to your wellness routine.
Plus, according to Ayurveda, Giloy is classified as a member of the vyah-sthapan group, which is believed to have incredible anti-aging properties. Additionally, it can work wonders on pesky pimples, stubborn dark spots, and those pesky fine lines.
Rose
Long before poets and lovers whispered sweet nothings to the rose, ayurvedic healers were already crushing, grinding, and preserving it for herbal remedies, skincare recipes, teas, and aromatic oils. With a rich oral tradition spanning thousands of years, these healers knew just how to harness the power of the rose to cool down an overactive pitta dosha – the fiery, hot-tempered mind-body force associated with stress, ambition, anger, and heat.
While some people are naturally more prone to pitta imbalances, especially during the scorching summer months when this dosha is at its strongest, the rose is an all-around tridoshic flower. This means it can benefit everyone, all year round, regardless of their dosha constitution. And with its incredible versatility and nourishing properties, the rose has rightfully earned its place as a beloved ingredient in the world of Ayurveda.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, a succulent plant of the Aloe genus, is a popular Ayurvedic herb that has been used in cosmetics for centuries. With its impressive array of anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties, aloe vera is an effective remedy for a wide range of skin conditions, including dryness, rashes, infections, pimples, and allergies. Its vitamin-rich gel, which contains vitamins A, B12, C, and E, as well as essential enzymes, minerals, lignin, salicylic acids, saponins, and amino acids, can be applied directly to the skin for quick relief.
Numerous studies have revealed the remarkable biochemistry of aloe vera, which possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, hydrating, nourishing, cooling, and cell-regenerative properties that can work wonders on your skin.
In Ayurveda, aloe vera is classified as a ‘tridosha hara’ herb, meaning it helps to balance all three energies – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – in an elevated state. This, in turn, can help resolve skin conditions linked to each of the elevated doshas in your skin, making aloe vera a versatile and highly prized ingredient in Ayurvedic skincare.
Turmeric
Turmeric, the golden spice, owes its many benefits to the presence of Curcumin, a potent bioactive compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is these very properties that have made turmeric a skincare superstar, known for its ability to bring out a natural glow on the complexion when applied topically.
Turmeric has been used for centuries as a traditional remedy to heal wounds, thanks to its soothing and calming qualities. It is also known for its acne-healing abilities. Furthermore, turmeric is considered a remarkable remedy for pigmentation, acting as a natural cleanser that helps reduce pigmentation and blackheads, while also providing a soothing and calming effect on the skin.
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil is a miracle oil that not only nourishes and rejuvenates dry skin, but also helps prevent flakiness and itchiness. Its moisturizing properties work wonders on the face, controlling oil production without clogging pores. By restoring the skin barrier and promoting moisture retention, hemp seed oil leaves your skin looking healthy, hydrated, and supple. This super oil is known to treat acne, ease rosacea, and reduce redness, making it the perfect choice for those with Vata and Pitta Dosha imbalances. Its anti-inflammatory effects can even help with eczema and acne. Say goodbye to dry, lackluster skin and hello to a healthy, glowing complexion with the power of hemp seed oil!
Mango
The mango tree, according to Ayurveda, is known for its various medicinal properties. Mango has been found to possess several health benefits such as anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-viral, cardiotonic, hypotensive, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Moreover, mango is a rich source of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in maintaining skin elasticity and preventing sagging and wrinkles. The vitamin also aids in collagen production, a protein essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair. Additionally, mango is a good source of vitamin A, which promotes hair growth and helps in the production of sebum that moisturizes the scalp.
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