Skincare struggles are the gift that keeps on giving, except they’re not a gift at all. Throughout different stages of our lives, our skin can develop its own issues, from hormonal acne to clogged pores to unwanted texture. The skincare world is vast and wide, providing an overwhelming amount of options of products that are meant to help treat and cure whatever issue may have manifested itself on your face as a massive spot or noticeable dark spots throughout your t-zone.
What if there was a way to cure it without dropping hundreds of dollars on topical treatments that are going to run out much faster than you anticipated or when those products have stopped working for you? We all know the benefits of hyaluronic, salicylic, and lactic acids and how and when we should be using retinol, but what about the benefits of ayurvedic herbs and their natural properties?
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda dates back to ancient India over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda is a healing system that promotes gentle, natural daily self-care practices that aim to keep our mind, body, and soul in balance. By practicing this daily, it helps keep us balanced on the day-to-day. Ayurvedic methods are ingrained into a mainstream western culture already, including practicing yoga, drinking hot water with lemon, oil pulling, meditation, and sound therapy.
A system of three doshas is the basis of Ayurveda, known as Pitta, Vata, and Kapha. We all have qualities of these doshas, but the most dominant will affect everything in our lives, including digestion of food, the most effective exercises, and how you view the world around you. Bringing your three doshas together will help keep your dominant dosha in balance.
How does Ayurveda help your skin?
In Ayurveda, our skin is seen as a manifestation of our inner health. Similar to other aspects of your life, you’ll want to choose skincare products according to your dosha. Ayurvedic methods will pinpoint your target skin problems and reveal what they are reflections of, whether it’s your lifestyle or environment. Treating your skin concerns needs to be tackled from the inside out, coming down to your diet, lifestyle, and mindset.
The ancient practice of Ayurveda also puts native herbs in charge of homeopathic methods of healing, as well as for products that could be used for beauty. From turmeric and ghee to coconut oil and rose water, combinations of ayurvedic ingredients can be turned into “recipes” for your skin and hair.
Which herbs can help clear your skin?
Modern skincare has the tendency to lack some of the ingredients central to Ayurveda. These missing ingredients could be the key to lending their healing properties to our skin to tackle topical issues.
Neem
Referred to as the “miracle tree,” the leaves of Neem have been used for over 5,000 years in many remedies. Neem has some serious antibacterial properties that are great for illness, but also for skin-related issues. Neem can be used to create seed oil and leaf extracts to be used in soaps and lotions as a method to relieve any inflammation on the skin from eczema, dermatitis, rashes, and psoriasis as well as kill bacteria that can be found in acne.
Morgina
Moringa is chock full of protein and vitamins A, C, and E. Morgina oil can aid in clearing acne-prone skin, reducing the size of your pores, and boosting the overall radiance of your skin. It can also firm your skin and promote elasticity to provide some anti-aging properties as well.
Frankincense
Derived from the Boswellia tree’s sap, frankincense is used in Ayurvedic medicine and skincare. Frankincense essential oils can be used in aromatherapy as well as in skincare due to its anti-inflammatory properties. These oils can strengthen your skin, promote elasticity, and aid with its anti-aging effects. It can also help reduce acne and scarring as well as heal dehydrated, cracked skin.
Tulsi
Referred to as the “Elixir of Life,” this herb symbolizes purity and is thought to promote life-long happiness and longevity. Tulsi, similar to Neem, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but also adaptogenic properties, which can help your body relieve stress. Tulsi can be applied topically to treat acne and any skin that’s prone to any inflammation. It can unclog your pores as a natural cleanser, as well as remove any excess oil and impurities for preventative acne treatment.
Even if acne is not one of your main struggles, Tulsi also is effective when it comes to anti-aging. It can help tighten your skin and fight free radical damage (bye-bye, pollution) to help prevent fine lines, age spots, and wrinkles all while leaving your skin soft and glowing.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a popular Ayurveda herb that helps with hormonal imbalance, improving your skin’s overall texture, and provide calming effects for your skin, too. Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s also effective for treating and reducing acne and can help you say goodbye to redness!
