What contributes to naturally better health? Enhances natural beauty

We are lucky that India is the Origin of Ayurveda which has one of the oldest and richest cultural traditions associated with the use of traditional herbs. Ayurvedic practitioners have identified a number of Medicinal preparation and surgical procedures for curing various ailments and diseases with the use of these herbs.

Various parts of herbs, like the stems, leaves, roots, flowers and fruits, are used to cure health and skin disorders. In this age of growing medical costs and side-effects, more & more people are choosing natural solution over artificial; simple over complex. Nowadays people include Herbs in their regular diets. People prefer green herbs, not only because of their low fatty oil content, which is for good health, but also to maintain and restore their vibrant beauty.

Herbs are a real boon as the use of Herbs has been used since 5000 years back by Ayurveda, and learnt about their aromatic, therapeutic and savory properties through trial and error. According to Ayurveda, there is no single herb that is useless. This is indeed true; Herbs play a major role in beauty aids as well as therapies.

Here you can see some important Indian medicinal plants used in beauty care. Information has not only been gathered from recent literature, or prior art search, but also includes some uncommon herbal practices performed in the olden times & as per Ayurvedic text.

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem contains 3.5% Bitters. In Ayurvedic herbalism for thousands of years, Neem’s historical use as a purifier and cleanser has been backed up with numerous modern scientific studies demonstrating the positive effects of its component herbs on the inner and outer skin and its ability to boost the immune system by energizing lymphocytes cells to respond to infection and other challenges to the body's immunity. In addition it is considered to have detoxifying properties.

It has Anti-septic, Anti-fungal, Anti-allergic properties & therefore it detoxifies blood & imparts natural skin health

Aloe- Kumari (Aloe indica)

In Ayurvedic herbalism for thousands of years, Aloe’s historical use as a purifier and cleanser has been backed up with numerous modern scientific studies demonstrating the positive effects of its component herbs to harmonize the body system especially the colon, radiating outward to reflect positively on skin health. In addition it is considered to have anti oxidant properties that help to revitalize the skin

Aloe speeds up the regenerative process of the skin and helps in keeping the skin healthy.

Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)

The principal constituents in Manjishtha are purpurin, munjistin, xanthopurpurin, and pseudopurpurin. Manjistha is considered to be one of the most valuable herbs in Ayurveda, the world’s oldest health care system that originated in India. The ancient physician and sage, Charaka has categorized the herb as varnya or that which improves the complexion, jvarahara, or that which reduces fever, and visaghna or that which detoxifies. It is also a well known rasayana – a rejuvenative.

It has astringent properties and is a well known blood purifier.

Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus)

The constituents in Sariva are Coumarins, Essential Oils & Saponins. Sariva smells sweet and is also known as sugandhi ‘the fragrant one’ in Hindi. Its red colour relates to its affinity for the blood and it treats all conditions with heat or toxins in the blood; dermatological, musko skeletal, urogenital, and gynaecological. It has astringent properties and is a well known blood purifier. It is an excellent blood purifier. It reduces lymphatic swellings, stops itching and reduces suppuration.

Haridra - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Haridra's principal constituent, curcumin, has been extensively studied by Western researchers and scientists for its antioxidant activity.

Haridra is a vital herb in Ayurvedic medicine, whose spice form can be recognized by its dazzling yellow color. The rhizome of the herb, used either fresh or dried, has a host of medicinal benefits. It acts as a carminative and also enhances the complexion and skin tone.

Khadeer Bark (Acacia catechu)

Main chemical constituents of Acacia catechu willd are catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallete rocatechin, phloroglucin, protocatechuic acid, quercetin, poriferasterol glucosides, poriferasterol acyglucosides, lupenone, lupeol, procyanidin AC, kaempferol, dihydrokaemferol, taxifolin, afzelchin gum and mineral. The leaves, bark and heartwood of Acacia catechu tree possess many nutritional and medicinal uses. Catechins have siginificant antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. It is considered to be the best antioxidant.

Acacia catechu is widely used in Ayurveda to treat various diseases and mainly for skin diseases. Acacia catechu is highly valuable for its powerful astringent and antioxidant activities. This herb acts as an excellent blood purifier & helps in preventing skin allergies

Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba)

Traditionally Bhringraj has been used in Ayurveda from olden times on many ailments. It was known as false daisy & has been used for skin rejuvenation as well as hair loss. It has been effective in improving the immunity power of the body and is a general tonic for keeping the body healthy and fit.

Mango (Mangifera Indica)

Mango Butter high content of stearic acid. It has good emolliency and lends protection against the sun. It is said to prevent drying of the skin and formation of wrinkles. Mango butter also reduces degeneration of skin cells and restores elasticity. Some dermatologists recommend Mango Butter for treatment of wrinkles, most people who use it will notice decreased signs of aging and the disappearance of lines and wrinkles within 4 to 6 weeks of daily use. Mango butter is wonderful for dry skin therefore; it is used as an ingredient in skin care products, lotions, massage creams and hair and sun care products. Semi-liquid mango oil is used in conditioners and shampoos for improved combing and a healthy shine to hair.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula oil is derived from the lovely and simple marigold flowers. Or maybe these precious little flowers you picked as a youngster aren’t so ordinary after all! Calendula oil packs a punch in the skin care industry. This oil when properly and painstakingly distilled is a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial agent, and antiseptic.

Calendula is probably best used for chapped and otherwise irritated skin. The oil soluble components including the essential oil seem especially good at stimulating wound healing. Scientific studies find that extracts of calendula can speed the healing of skin wounds and burns. The oil is used in soaps and cosmetics. It is a good moisturizing agent, especially for dry skin. It is also an exceptionally good skin conditioner, and is well-known for its ability to repair damaged skin.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

Cocos nucifera (Coconut) oil is used for general moisturizing, and as a fine cleanser for the skin. It also acts as mild oil suitable for those with inflamed and irritated skin, as well as skin sensitivities. It is a natural emollient, moisturizing, occlusive, and antioxidant. It is good for rejuvenating dry, stressed and ageing skin, as well as delicate skin. Coconut butter extracted from coconut is a good emulsifier for making creams and lotions. It may help to keep the skin from developing liver spots, and other blemishes caused by ageing and over-exposure to sunlight. Coconut oil helps remove the dead cells of the skin, making it smoother. Coconut oil is well-documented as a beneficial ingredient in hair products, such as shampoos, conditioners and hair oil.

Onion (Allium cepa)

You may not be aware that onion is actually excellent for skin glowing. The humble vegetable is packed with Vitamins A, C and E. This group of vitamins, together known as anti-oxidants, helps in fighting against the damage caused by the harmful UV rays. They also help in protecting against free radical damage which is responsible for premature aging. Onion is also a powerful antiseptic which can shield your skin from acne-causing bacteria and other skin infections.

Eating raw onions every day can be very helpful in promoting skin health. Onions not only help in purifying blood but also supply the body with flavonoids. Flavonoids help Vitamin C in its important functions. Research has proven that Vitamin C is essential for keeping skin healthy and glowing.

Some Important Traditional Practices for Skin Care

• Application of paste made from Fenugreek on the face, overnight, can help prevent pimples, blackheads and wrinkles;
• A paste of Sandalwood (Santalum album) powder, prepared in rosewater, [obtained from rose petals, (Rosa indica)] keeps a check on skin eruptions, giving a refreshing feel to the skin;
• Topical application of Basil (Ocimum sanctum) extract on the skin helps kill infections. Equal amounts of Basil extract, Lemon (Citrus Limon) juice and Onion (Allium cepa) extract help all types of skin diseases. Those suffering from pimples can blend crushed Basil with Mint (Mentha virdis) and Lemon juice, and apply over the affected area;
• Saffron (Crocus sativus) with raw milk is known to improve skin complexion and remove blemishes;
• Regular bath with Basil and Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, boiled in water, keeps skin healthy and glowing. It also prevents skin infections and allergies;
• Aloe vera is a reputed natural moisturizer. Topical application of Aloe gel on the skin and hair improves their texture;
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) along with Sandalwood powder purifies skin and improves the complexion;
• Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) juice acts as a natural astringent when applied on the skin. It helps close open pores and reduces skin eruptions.
• Take 1 tablespoon of onion juice, 1 tablespoon of carrot juice, 1 yolk of egg, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and one table spoon or rose water. Now mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Now wash your face with lukewarm water and apply this lotion with cotton swab. Leave for 20 minutes and wash with warm water. Follow this tip minimum 3 days in a week. This is very nice skin tonic. It will give your skin a good skin health and lighter skin tone with fair skin.

Conclusion

This shows how important Herbs are & they have played an integral part in the development of modern civilization. People are going back to nature as though the effect of herbs is slow but they are certainly effective without having any side effects as compared to fast-acting synthetic cosmetics of the modern world.