Ayurvedic Plants and Shrubs Used in the Cosmetic Industry

Ayurveda is a Hindu text concerning health.

Ayurveda is a form of holistic medicine originating on the Indian subcontinent intended to promote one's physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Certain plants and shrubs utilized in ayurveda can be contained in cosmetics such as makeup, lotions and hair care products.

Function

Bark of babul is used in dental health.

The most widely used plant in ayurvedic medicine is the Neem tree, which in Sanskrit is known as the "healer of all ailments." Neem oil is used in cosmetics and even to brush one's teeth. The bark and fruit of another tree, babul, is often used to promote dental health.

Spice Effects

Indian spices have cosmetic uses.

Many spices that are familiar to us come from traditional Indian cooking but have ayurvedic properties as well. These include basil, coriander, fennel, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, hing and ajuwon. Basil in particular is included in many face washes because it helps treat pimples and blackheads and makes skin glow.

Lotion Uses

Ayurvedic treatments are used in many types of lotions.

Aloe vera might be familiar from skin lotions and this clear gel-like plant has uses in balms and to heal sunburn and reduce redness. Gotu kola, or Indian pennywort, is useful to treat varicose veins and cellulite.

Spa Types

Bergamot smooths the skin.

The fragrant herb bergamot is used in ayurvedic spa treatments such as facials and massages and can help leave skin feeling, soft, smooth and rejuvenated.

Hair Benefits

Shikakai is used in traditional Indian shampoo.

The ayurvedic herb bibhitaki is used to help the hair grow faster. When it comes to hair health, nothing beats a shampoo made from shikakai, which in Sanskrit means "fruit for hair."

References

• Beauty Care Hub: Ayurvedic Herbal Plants
• MedIndia: Ayurvedic Plants

Resources

• Kevala Ayurveda Academy