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Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of herbal healing, was established 5000 years
ago. Literally, it means “science of life.” Indeed, it is not merely a system of
healing, but an entire way of life, which aims at total well being, body, mind and
soul. Ayurveda is based on the theory of “Tridosha.” The three “doshas” represent
combinations of the five elements of Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether (or space),
giving rise to three basic constitutions of the human body. Apart from internal
health, “dosha” imbalances get reflected on the skin and hair too. Ayurveda tells
us how to restore the balance. Ayurveda is not only for people who are ill, but
for all who want to come closer to a state of perfect health. This holds true of
beauty care too. Ayurveda is ideal both for general beauty care and the treatment
of skin and hair problems. Along with Yoga and Meditation, the holistic system of
Ayurveda has become popular worldwide. |
Shahnaz Husain |
Over centuries of practical usage, Ayurveda has identified foods, herbs, minerals
and other natural substances that help to restore, maintain and enhance both health
and beauty. It also contains details of their curative properties, the methods of
collection and extraction, as well as their combinations. It has a long history
of safe usage and also offers the element of safety, with a lack of harmful after-effects.
We have used many Ayurvedic ingredients in beauty care. Neem (Margosa) is one such
versatile plant product. Neem contains organic sulphur compounds, which have a powerful
healing and protective action.
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Beauty formulations containing Neem help to keep skin and hair healthy. Herbs like
Shikakai (acacia concinna) and Arishtak (sapindus trifoliatus) have been traditionally
used for washing the hair.
They have powerful, but gentle, cleansing actions. Amla
(embelica officinalis) is another popular ingredient. It is one of the richest sources
of Vitamin C. Trifala, a combination of three herbs, has varied uses, from hair
tonic to eye care. Bilva (Indian Quince), Hibiscus, Amla and Brahmi (Indian Pennywort)
are also used in hair care. Brahmi helps to control stress-related problems, as
it has a calming effect on the nerves, apart from other beneficial properties.
Sandalwood is perhaps one of the most common ingredients in Ayurveda. It has germicidal,
antiseptic and sun protective properties, while the exotic perfume induces relaxation.
Tulsi (Holy Basil) has so many medicinal uses that it has been traditionally venerated
and worshipped. Rose is another common cosmetic ingredient. Oil of rose is said
to have originated in India. Rose helps to tone the capillaries and improve blood
circulation to the skin. The fragrance of rose has a calming effect on the mind.
It is used in skin and hair care, along with sandalwood, jasmine, orange flower,
turmeric, saffron and hundreds of other ingredients. Sandalwood, basil, mint, margosa,
clove, eucalyptus, etc., are used to treat eruptive skin conditions like acne.
Ayurvedic ingredients also contain vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other valuable
elements, which keep the skin and hair healthy and also improve their normal functions,
including cell renewal. Thus, they have age control benefits, with the power to
revitalize and rejuvenate.
India has a great deal to offer the rest of the world, in terms of her herbal heritage
of Ayurveda. With the current “total well being” concept sweeping the world, Ayurveda
is poised to become the healing system of the future. It has been tested by the
most exacting test of all…..the Test of Time!
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