Let's take a trip back in time to when beauty secrets weren't hidden behind fancy marketing – welcome to the world of Ayurveda! Picture ancient India, where wise sages brewed up potions from nature's pantry to keep their skin looking flawless. Ayurveda, which means "the science or knowledge of life," has been around for over 5,000 years. It's like the OG wellness guide, covering everything from nutrition, lifestyle, herbal medicine, and of course, how to get that glow. At its core, Ayurveda recognises how things in nature are connected and how we can harness all things natural to achieve optimal well-being.
In the blog:
UNLOCKING AYURVEDA'S SECRETS
One of the things I really love about the Ayurveda approach to skincare is that their beauty practices have a seasonal approach. The ingredients used, particularly in masks, were very different in each season. As I mentioned in a previous blog about Autumn Skincare, it is important to adjust our skincare routine to match what our skin needs in different seasons.
So, to get the most out of the Ayurvedic approach to skincare, it is important to keep the season in mind. We have four seasons, but the Ayurvedic have 6:
Shishira (winter)
Vasanta (spring)
Grishma (summer)
Varsha (monsoon)
Sharata (autumn),
Hemanta (late autumn)
The main takeaways from the seasonal skincare advice is this:
In the cooler months, the focus is generally on hydration
In the warmer months, the focus is usually on protection and healing from the elements
MAIN AYURVEDIC INGREDIENTS FOR GLOWING SKIN
There are so many herbs we could mention in this section, but I am just picking the top 3 herbs that can be utilised for many skin conditions and types.
Neem: Known as the "healer of all ailments" in Ayurveda, neem is a powerful purifier with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating neem into your skincare routine can help combat acne, soothe irritation, and promote overall skin health.
Tulsi (Holy Basil): Revered for its sacred status in Ayurveda, Tulsi is a potent antioxidant with detoxifying properties. It helps protect the skin from environmental stressors, reduces inflammation, and promotes a clear, glowing complexion.
Turmeric: This golden spice is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric brightens the skin, fades dark spots, and helps alleviate conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
AYURVEDIC HERBS FOR SKIN TYPES
In Ayurvedic skincare, herbal extracts as well as essential oils are the big focus. They can be used in different ways for different types of skin. Here are some specific herbs depending on your skin’s needs:
Anti-inflammatory
Inflammation is perhaps one of the biggest issues our bodies face due to numerous environmental factors. This can show up on our skin in the form of acne and other skin conditions. But, the Ayurvedic approach suggests some amazing anti-inflammatory herbs to fight against inflammation:
Aloe vera
Silk cotton tree
Rose
Neem
Anti-aging
I don’t like using this term for several reasons, but it just seems like the most relatable term for many people so we are going with it for now! We are looking at “anti-aging” skincare, the goal is really to focus on ways to support and nourish the skin as it changes. Suggested herbs for this include:
Gotu kola, which can help your skin make collagen
Indian gooseberry, which is rich in vitamin C
Brightening
I’ve used the term glowing skin many times in blog posts related to skincare, because who doesn’t want a glowing and bright complexion! There are many herbs that are amazing at this as well as removing any build-up of junk from our skin, such as:
Sandalwood
Indian sarsaparilla
Gotu kola
Turmeric
Skin conditions
Many people struggle with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. There is one particular herb already mentioned that is known to have amazing healing benefits for not only the skin conditions above but also for healing and reducing the appearance of scars, as well as a few others already mentioned:
Gotu kola
Aloe vera
Turmeric
Neem
Cardamom
DIY AYURVEDIC SKINCARE RECIPES
So how can you reap the benefits of these powerful herbs? I have a few simple DIYs you can incorporate into your weekly skincare routine.
Neem and Turmeric Face Mask:
NOTE: Yes, it will look like you've smeared something not so nice on your face :P
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of neem powder
½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
Water to form a paste
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Apply to cleansed skin, leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Benefits: This mask helps clear acne, reduce inflammation, and brighten the complexion.
Ayurvedic Body Scrub for Smooth, Radiant Skin:
Ingredients:
1 cup of finely ground oats
1/2 cup of almond oil
1 tablespoon of raw honey
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine finely ground oats, almond oil, raw honey, and turmeric powder until you get a thick, paste-like consistency.
Take a warm shower to soften your skin, then apply the body scrub in gentle circular motions, focusing on rough areas like elbows, knees, and heels.
Rinse off the scrub with warm water, pat dry, and follow up with your favourite Mandi Makes body butter.
Revel in your smooth, glowing skin!
Benefits: This Ayurvedic body scrub exfoliates dead skin cells, boosts circulation, and nourishes the skin with its blend of natural ingredients. Turmeric adds a brightening effect, leaving your skin radiant and rejuvenated.
Ayurvedic Facial Oil
Ingredients:
½ ounce jojoba oil
½ ounce almond oil
6 drops of vitamin E oil
12 drops Rose Otto
4 drops of geranium essential oil
Instructions:
1. Combine oils and pour them into a glass bottle.
2. Apply 1–4 drops of facial oil as your daily moisturizer.
Benefits:
The combination of these ingredients is incredibly hydrating and nourishing. It is particularly great for dry and/or mature skin.
INCORPORATING AYURVEDIC RITUALS INTO DAILY LIFE
Beyond skincare, Ayurveda encourages holistic self-care practices to nurture the body, mind, and soul. Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, and daily self-massage with nourishing oils like sesame or coconut can enhance the benefits of your skincare routine and promote overall well-being.
Embrace the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda and unlock the secret to radiant, glowing skin – naturally. By harnessing the power of Ayurvedic herbs, you can embark on a journey of that transcends fleeting beauty trends. It's time to reconnect with the ancient wisdom that has stood the test of time and rediscover the beauty within you.
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