Kama Ayurveda - Page 13 of 18

Amla For Hair – Top 10 Benefits & Ways To Use It?

Ever wonder how our grandmothers managed to have thick, glossy and intensely dark hair even in their 50s? The secret lies in the powerful Ayurvedic fruit Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry for hair. Derived from the Amalaki plant, Amla fruit has been used as an essential part of hair care rituals since time immemorial and is considered an elixir for hair.

Owing to its richness in nutrients like Vitamins C and tannins, Amla has been a part of grandma’s beauty treasure trove for centuries!

Amla also possesses nourishing properties. One Amla contains up to 80 percent moisture making it a great natural hair conditioner. Looking for ways to use Amla for hair? Let’s help you out.

Top 6 Benefits Of Amla For Hair

From boosting growth and shielding against damage to reducing hair loss and balancing the scalp, Amla has proven itself as a versatile and effective ingredient. Whether you're opting for age-old Ayurvedic treatments or exploring contemporary hair care products, the power of Amla is undeniable.

Name any hair problem and you’ll find a way to cure it with the goodness of Amla. Here, we go through some of the well-known benefits of using amla for hair.

1. Amla Treats Hair Fall

One of the best things you can do to prevent hair fall is to massage your hair with amla oil. Considered as a ‘superfood‘ for hair, Amla is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and phytonutrients that increase the circulation of blood significantly throughout the scalp.

By providing enough oxygen and nourishment to the hair follicles, amla oil makes the hair fibers strong and puts an end to the issue of hair fall.

2. Amla For Dandruff Treatment

Using the vitamin C-rich amla powder for hair cures the dryness and prevents the accumulation of dandruff. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties are very effective in stopping dandruff formation.

By clearing the build-up of impurities from the scalp and restoring optimum pH levels of the scalp, amla even helps in reducing the itchiness resulting from dandruff.

You can use Kama Ayurveda’s Bringadi Hair Cleanser to get rid of dandruff naturally with Ayurvedic ingredients such as Amla, Bhringraj, and Indigo.

3. Amla for Treating Premature Graying

One of the biggest causes of premature graying of hair is the lack of proper nutrition. Including Amla in an everyday diet not only helps in supplying the body with the necessary nutrients but also helps in their absorption.

Regular use of Amla in the diet as well as in daily hair care routine prevents graying and helps in maintaining natural hair color and luster. Eating amla for hair health is one of the best additions that you can make to your diet.

Read - Home Remedies For Grey Hair – 10+ Ayurvedic Methods

4. Amla for Hair Growth

Amla contains oodles of essential fatty acids that penetrate into the follicles, making the hair softer, shinier and voluminous. It also stimulates hair growth owing to its high iron and carotene content.

By promoting healthy blood flow, Amla also ensures that the scalp receives essential nutrients and oxygen, crucial for hair health. The increased blood circulation also extends the anagen phase of hair growth, allowing the strands to grow longer and stronger.

5. Amla Shields Hair From External Damage

Amla's tannins and calcium provide your hair a protective shield against photo-damage and heat damage. These compounds act as a barrier, preventing hair from succumbing to external stressors.

Tannins, in particular, bind easily to the keratin proteins in hair, effectively safeguarding them from breakdown caused by environmental factors.

6. Amla Reduces For Hair Loss

Amla not only encourages hair growth but also curbs hair loss when applied topically. Research reveals that Amla oil is a potent inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme linked to hair loss. Interestingly, finasteride, a medication used to treat hair loss, also works by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase.

This mechanism is particularly significant for individuals experiencing hormonal hair loss due to conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances.

7. Amla Conditions Hair

Amla is also rich in various nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, which play a crucial role in nourishing and strengthening the hair. These nutrients contribute to overall hair health, making it shinier, smoother, and more resistant to damage.
You can add Bringadi Hair Conditioner to your hair care regimen to get the conditioning benefits of Amla.

How To Apply Amla On Hair?

Whether you're seeking to stimulate growth, tame frizz, or promote overall hair health, incorporating Amla into your routine can work wonders. Here are some effective ways to use Amla for hair care:

1. Use Amla Oil for Hair and Scalp

Wondering how to prepare Amla oil? You can simply heat natural coconut oil with Amla powder till it turns brown. This will result in Amla oil that you can apply to the scalp and the hair roots soon after it cools down.

If you don’t want to prepare Amla oil at home, you can also use Ayurvedic hair treatment known as Brigandi Hair Oil. This oil is rich in Ayurvedic ingredients like Indian Gooseberry (Amla), Bhringraj, and Hibiscus.

2. Applying Amla Juice on Hair

Using Amla juice for hair works as an effective hair strengthening treatment. Amla juice is the simplest hair tonic that provides your hair with all the nutrients that it needs. Wondering how to make Amla juice for hair growth? It’s easier than you think.

(From the previous blog - https://www.kamaayurveda.com/blog/Amla-for-Hair-Indian-Secret-to-healthy-lustrous-hair/)

Simply take a fresh Amla and squeeze out its juice into a bowl. You can even add freshly squeezed Lemon juice to Amla juice to make a hair tonic. Apply Amla juice directly on the scalp with your fingertips. Massage it gently and then leave it on for about an hour. Wash it off with a mild cleanser.

3. Amla Tonic For Strong Hair Roots

To enhance collagen levels and promote hair growth, apply fresh Amla to your scalp. Create a diluted Amla juice or a paste using Amla powder and water. Gently massage the solution onto your scalp for approximately 5 minutes, allowing it to rest for an additional 10 minutes. Rinse with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water for invigorated scalp health.

To use Amla with almond oil, combine amla juice with almond oil and warm the mixture together. Apply this mixture as a hair tonic on the scalp and hair

4. Add Amla To Your Hair Dye

Amla and Henna come together to create a hair mask that not only averts premature greying but also enhances shine. Add Amla Powder to Henna powder whenever you apply it to the hair. This will help in improving its efficacy in coloring the hair and prevent premature greying

5. Amla and Yogurt Hair Mask For Strong Hair

Amla hair pack can be made by mixing Amla powder with other useful Ayurvedic ingredients for hair. For all those who wonder how to use amla powder for hair, the answer is hair masks and hair packs.

Craft a nourishing hair mask by combining Amla and yogurt. Mix two teaspoons of Amla powder with warm water to form a paste. Integrate a teaspoon of honey and two teaspoons of yogurt into the mixture. Apply the mask evenly on your hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water for revitalized and fortified hair strands.

6. Amla and Shikakai Hair Pack For Hair Fall

Amla and Shikhakai hair packs can be made by mixing the two powders in equal quantities in a bowl. Water is added to make a smooth paste that can be easily applied to hair and scalp. Amla hair pack should be left on for 30-40 minutes before washing it off with cold water. You'll experience reduced hair fall and improved hair strength.

What experts say -

“To use Amla for strengthening hair, combine Amla powder with two other powerful herbal ingredients - Reetha and Shikhakai. Blend their powdered form in water to make a smooth Amla paste for hair and then apply it along the hair strands. Together, Amla, Reetha, and Shikakai compliment each other and help in maintaining healthy and lustrous hair.” - Dr Gopan G

7. Amla and Curry Leaves For Hair Growth

You can use Amla with Curry leaves to enhance scalp health and promote hair growth. Heat Coconut oil and add chopped Amla and a handful of Curry leaves. Once the oil turns brown, remove from heat and allow it to cool. Apply the oil to your scalp and hair, massaging gently for 20-30 minutes. Wash with a mild sulfate-free shampoo for nourished and strengthened hair.

8. Amla and Hibiscus Hair Mask For Thick Hair

Combine Amla and hibiscus for a potent hair mask that promotes hair density. Blend hibiscus petals and leaves to form a fine paste, then add two tablespoons of Amla powder. Incorporate water or coconut oil to create a paste, applying it to your scalp and hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with a cold shower bath and a herbal shampoo for lush, thick hair.

9. Amla and Honey Hair Mask For Smooth Hair

Experience satin-soft hair texture with a blend of raw Amla and honey. Create a smooth paste from organic Amlas, then mix in fresh honey. Apply the blend to your scalp and hair, allowing it to rest for 20 minutes. Wash with a warm shower before cleansing your hair with herbal shampoo. Incorporate this conditioning pack before each hair wash or at least once a week.

10. Amla and Lemon Anti-Dandruff Hair Mask

Combat dandruff and detoxify your scalp with the dynamic duo of Amla and Lemon. Strain the pulp after blending Amlas to obtain 1-2 tablespoons of Amla juice. Mix it with an equal amount of fresh lemon juice. Apply the blend to your scalp, leaving it on for 40-50 minutes before washing with a herbal shampoo and cold shower. Repeat this process once or twice a week for a healthier scalp.

How To Include Amla In Diet For Hair Health?

Including Amla in your diet helps promote hair health due to its rich vitamin C content and other nutrients. Here are some simple ways to incorporate Amla into your diet for hair benefits:

1. Fresh Amla:

Consuming fresh Amla is the most direct way to reap its benefits. You can eat it as a whole fruit, but keep in mind that Amla has a tart taste. You might prefer to chop it into smaller pieces and mix it with a sprinkle of salt or honey to make it more palatable.

2. Amla Juice:

You can extract Amla juice by blending or juicing the fruit. Mix the juice with water to dilute its strong flavor. Adding a dash of honey or lemon juice can also enhance the taste. Drinking Amla juice on an empty stomach in the morning is a popular practice for its health benefits.

3. Amla Powder:

Amla powder is a convenient option that can be easily incorporated into various dishes. You can add a teaspoon of Amla powder to your morning smoothie, yogurt, or oatmeal. It can also be sprinkled over salads or added to your favorite beverages.

4. Amla Supplements:

If fresh Amla is not readily available, you can consider Amla supplements. These supplements come in various forms like capsules, tablets, or powders. However, it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

5. Amla Pickle:

Amla pickle is a tasty way to consume Amla. The pickling process reduces its sourness and makes it more enjoyable to eat. However, keep in mind that pickling might reduce its vitamin C content to some extent.

6. Amla Chutney:

Prepare a tangy Amla chutney by blending Amla with other ingredients like mint, coriander, and spices. This chutney can be used as a dip or a condiment to accompany your meals.

7. Amla Infused Water:

Infuse your water with Amla by adding Amla slices or Amla powder to a pitcher of water. Let it sit overnight to infuse the water with its nutrients. This refreshing drink can be consumed throughout the day.

What experts say -

“Remember that consistency is key when it comes to dietary changes for hair health. Amla's rich vitamin C content promotes collagen production, which is crucial for maintaining healthy hair structure. Additionally, its antioxidants contribute to overall hair health by protecting hair follicles from damage.” - Dr. Vinny Narayanan

Frequently Asked Questions about using Amla for Hair

1. Is Amla good for hair?

Amla is considered a ‘superfood‘ for hair. With a zillion nutrients like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and phytonutrients present in this ‘wonder fruit’, it is a hair fall control remedy and natural conditioner. Amla is also very high in antioxidants which help in maintaining the health of the scalp.

For best results only use products that are 100% natural and contain pure Amla. Alternatively, you can dry amla fruit in the sun and powder it to obtain pure Amla powder at home.

2. How to use Amla powder for hair?

Amla powder is dried Amla fruit, ground into a fine powder. A thin paste can be made by combining Amla powder in water. Apply the paste in the hair roots and scalp to provide nourishment to the hair. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing off with a mild cleanser or running water.

3. How to use raw Amla for hair?

There are two ways to use raw Amla for hair. One way is to prepare Amla juice by putting the Amla in a grinder and straining out the leftovers to obtain the juice. Amla juice can then be applied directly to the hair.

The other way to use raw Amla for hair is by preparing an Amla wash. This is done by boiling freshly chopped pieces of Amla in water and then leaving them in water for about 30 minutes. Washing hair with this water is extremely beneficial.

4. How to eat Amla for hair health?

Eating Amla fruit every day is helpful in preventing premature greying and promoting hair growth. It also helps in maintaining the health of the scalp. Another way to include Amla in your diet is by making drinking Amla juice a part of your routine.

However, eating fresh Amla fruit has its own unique benefits. If you find the taste of Amla too pungent, you can consume it in the form of Amla pickle or candy.

5. How to make Amla oil?

If you’re interested in preparing Amla oil at home, you can boil dried Amla in Coconut oil or sesame oil till the oil turns brown. All the nutrients get transferred to the oil and Amla oil is obtained after it cools down. The process of making Amla oil is complex and the preparation should be done in small batch sizes to maintain the best quality.
Alternatively, you may use Ayurvedic Brigandi Hair Oil Treatment that has herbs and fruits like Amla, Bhringraj, Indigo, and Balloon Vines infused in the sesame oil base.

Conclusion

In the current times, when almost everyone has hair problems because of poor lifestyle, diet, and environmental pollution, Amla is a wonder Ayurvedic fruit that helps in restoring hair health.

Including it in the diet as well in our regular hair care routine is the best way to get those healthy, lustrous hair we all desire.

Feeling ready to start including Amla in your hair care routine? Here are a few Kama Ayurveda products with Amla you can get started with.

Dhanwantharam Thailam for Massage During Pregnancy

Pregnancy and motherhood have a special significance in Ayurveda.
When a Mother is going through a phase as happy, memorable, and transformational as Motherhood, Ayurveda recommends that she is provided with all the gifts of Nature to help her through this phase.

One such gift of nature and Ayurveda is Dhanwantharam Thailam.

What is Dhanwantharam Thailam?

Named after the God of Ayurveda, Dhanwantharam Thailam is a classic Ayurvedic treatment for expecting and new mothers. Not only it provides relief from pain and fatigue but also boosts overall energy and immunity.
Massage during pregnancy with Dhanwanthatam Thailam helps to strengthen the muscles and makes them strong enough to hold the fetus, which later helps in facilitating childbirth.

Massage with this oil also improves the elasticity of the skin and prevents stretch marks.

A 100 percent Ayurvedic concoction, it reinforces positive emotional states of happiness and infuses fresh confidence for body shape recovery. It is also prescribed for rheumatoid pain, arthritis, spondylitis, and hemiplegia.

Why Mothers Need Massage During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy, as well as childbirth, are physically and emotionally demanding for the mother.

Starting from the seventh month of pregnancy, the expecting mother may start experiencing itchiness and dryness as the body grows. The dryness is further exacerbated during winters.

Often, these symptoms are accompanied by a general feeling of malaise and tiredness. Some women also start feeling stressed or experience mild to severe mood swings around this time.

Much to our relief, the science of Ayurveda has a well-developed branch dealing in pregnancy care, childbirth and postnatal care termed as Garbhini Paricharya. This branch of Ayurveda details specific care routines for each month and stage of pregnancy.

The single most important routine recommended in Garbhini Paricharya is Abhyanga - an Ayurvedic practice of self-massage.

A gentle and soothing massage during pregnancy with oil like Dhanwantharam Thailam provides relief from problems like skin dryness, itchiness, pain, and tiredness. It also promotes easy labor.

Dhanwantharam Thailam Uses

Using Dhanwantharam Thailam for Prenatal Massage and Postnatal Massage

Dhanwantharam Thailam can be used from the seventh month of pregnancy for prenatal massage and post seven days of childbirth for a postnatal massage.

Massaging the oil for 10-15 minutes will have the following benefits -

1. Relief from stress and anxiety

According to Ayurveda, stress hormones (Cortisol and Norepinephrine) levels can be significantly decreased with oil massage. Regular oil massage also boosts the ‘happy’ hormones Dopamine and Serotonin.

Emotional symptoms like anxiety, jitteriness, and absentmindedness associated with pregnancy are due to Vata dosha imbalance. Dhanwantharam Thailam is based in Sesame Oil, which has Vata balancing properties. It remedies expressions of aggravated Vata in pre-post natal bodies.

Haritaki (Chebulic Myrobalan) in Dhanwantharam Thailam provides healing from exhaustion, emaciation, uterine prolapse, and weakened pelvic muscles and ligaments.

Haritaki is believed to be dear to Lord Shiva, promoting Shiva-like awareness and invincibility, and is also called Abhaya, as it is believed to instill fearlessness.

2. Hormone regulation

Shatavari (Wild Asparagus), Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng), Yashtimadhu (Liquorice), and Devadaru (Himalayan Cedar) are upheld in all ancient Ayurvedic texts, for their positively uplifting and balancing effects on female hormonal cycles.

These ingredients are present in Dhanwantharam Thailam and help with physical vitality, fertility, and libidinal energy after birthing. They also dispel symptoms of postpartum depression.

Prevents stretch marks and dark patches

Ayurvedic Dhanwantharam Thailam is usually made in a sneha dravya (lubricating substance) base of Sesame (Til). Incidentally, sneha in Sanskrit, also means love!
Heaty’ Sesame is abundant in vitamin E content. For this reason, it keeps skin dehydration and flakiness at bay, improves skin elasticity and prevents stretch marks.

Sesame Oil also helps manage possible effects of melasma, or the ‘mask of pregnancy’. This is the colloquial name for dark patches that develop around the nose, cheeks, forehead, and abdomen, as a result of pregnancy-induced hormonal changes.
Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry) present in Dhanwantharam Thailam brightens the skin and Bibhitaki (Beleric Myrobalan) present in the oil works on stomach and bowel toning.

4. Facilitates childbirth

The sub-dosha of Vata, Apana Vayu, is responsible for downward movement of energy, or Prana. Its unobstructed movement is necessary to consolidate the uterine position of babies in the final trimester before birth.
Dhanwantaram Tailam has Tagar (Indian Valerian) as one of the ingredients. Tagar balances Apana Vayu and acts as a ‘nerve tonic’.
Gentle, and regular massages with Dhanwantaram ensure that the Apana Vayu-balancing properties of Tagar (Indian Valerian) are absorbed profoundly. Tagar’s role as an effective ‘nerve tonic’, is enhanced by Bala (Indian Country Mallow), and Gorakbhuti (Mountain Knot Grass).

Together, they soothe any anxiety related to childbirth and reinstate comfort, focus, and self-confidence for post-natal shape recovery.

5. Provides relief from pain

During the final trimester, the pressure from the heavy uterus resting on the lower back and pelvic floor can cause swelling and pressure on nearby nerves. Dhanwantaram Tailam has Manjistha (Indian Madder) and Ashwagandha (Winter Cherry) which give the oil its anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.

By relieving the stress on those muscles, massaging can alleviate the pressure on the nerves and thus have a significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain.

6. Restores the strength of the body

Post delivery, the mother’s health is affected due to the loss of fluid and blood, and the emptiness created in the body after the child’s birth.

The phase after delivery until the restoration of the menstrual cycle is called the Sutika period in Ayurveda. It’s essential for the body to recover completely from this phase. Otherwise, it causes disease and discomfort in the future.

A daily ayurvedic oil massage (abhyanga) is also a powerful way to rejuvenate the mother. Massage with Dhanwantaram Thailam subsides the aches, pains, and imbalances. After just a week of regular massage, a feeling of relaxation and wholeness can be experienced.

However, Dhanwantaram Thailam is only recommended after 7 days of delivery in case of normal delivery and after 14 days of delivery in case of caesarian delivery.

Pregnancy Massage FAQs

Is Massage During Pregnancy Safe?

Massage during pregnancy is advised for all cases except those involving complications. Speak to your doctor prior to massage if you have a high-risk pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension, severe swelling or any other issues. In some cases, massage during the first trimester is not recommended.

How to use Dhanwantaram Thailam for massage?

Massage warmed Dhanwantaram Thailam Pre-Post Natal Treatment for 10-15 minutes to strengthen abdominal muscles and sagging skin. Post 30 minutes follow with a mild cleanser.

The application varies based on delivery. In case of normal delivery, start using the oil after 1 week. In the case of C-section delivery, start using the oil after 2 weeks. Lukewarm the oil and massage on the target area for 10-15 minutes daily for best results. Massage regularly for 40 days to strengthen the muscles and firm the abdomen/sagging skin.

Ayurveda also recommends using water boiled with tamarind leaves or kurunthotti roots (Sida cordifolia) for baths, prior to the massage.

What is a suitable body position during the massage?

Choose a position that is comfortable for you. Place cushions around your belly to give your body the necessary support. Do not put any pressure on the abdomen and chest.

How does massage during pregnancy affect the baby?

Massage during pregnancy has immense benefits for the mother.

Can Dhanwantaram Thailam be used for massaging the baby?

It is not recommended to use Dhanwantaram Thailam pre-post natal treatment oil on the baby. You can try Ayurvedic Baby Massage Oil. It’s a top-to-toe baby massage oil that soothes, nourishes, protects and softens delicate skin to keep it healthy and radiant.

Can Dhanwantaram Thailam be used for post-pregnancy breast firming?

It's recommended to use Ayurvedic Muscle Tone Firming Treatment to lift and firm the breasts. Kama Ayurveda’s Muscle Tone Firming Treatment is a rich, nourishing treatment for toning and firming to improve the appearance of sagging skin, stretch marks, and cellulite.

Conclusion

It is a matter of love and pride to bring a healthy, hearty, happy child into the world. But it is also important to remember that the best gift you can give this child, is a healthy, resilient, rejuvenated you.

Ayurveda embodies the compassionate, patient, all-inclusive qualities of Mother Nature, and spreads the message of peaceful, balanced strength and beauty, through Her three defining characteristics – Love, Life, and Light.

Using Dhanwantaram Thailam for massage during pregnancy is one of the best ways to give the mother all the power of nature and Ayurveda.

References -

1. A pilot study investigating the effects of Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage on subjective stress experience. - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21568717
2. Ayurvedic Care During Post Delivery Stage - Ayurvedic Doctor VL Shyam - https://fridaymagazine.ae/life-culture/ask-the-experts/ayurvedic-care-during-post-delivery-stage-1.2274367

5 Secrets About Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

Kama Ayurveda’s Rose Water has been a bestseller since it’s launch. While its popularity has only grown over the years, not many are aware of what makes this Rose Water so special.

In this blog, let’s take you on a journey to discover the many secrets stored in a single bottle of Kama Ayurveda’s Pure Rose Water, starting from its origin.

Origin of Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

Kannauj, now known as India’s Perfume Capital, carries on the ancient tradition of deriving essential oils (ittar) from flowers.

If you ever visit Bara Bazaar in Kannauj, you would be engulfed in the heady scents that hang all around. The ancient steam-distillation (deg-bhapka) method - a way to extract essential oils from the flower petals - is still upheld in the small lanes of Kannauj.

But even in Kannauj, the city of fragrances, there is one scent that stands out head and shoulders above the others - ‘The soul of the rose’ or ruh ul gulab.

It’s this fragrance that is captured in Kama Ayurveda Rose Water.

The Making Of Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

Did you know that about 13 – 15 roses (approximately 300 rose petals) are used to make a 200ml bottle of Kama Ayurveda Rose Water?

Let’s walk you through the special steam distillation (deg-bhapka) process is used for the making of the rose water -

1. The hand-picking of roses and grading

Rose petals are first hand-picked before sunrise and sent to the distilleries to be used the very same day.

They are then collected as per the grade and strength required. The ‘grade’ refers to the type of flower (there are many varieties) and ‘strength’ refers to the ratio of flower petals to the water.

2. The heating of the copper vessel (deg)

The rose petals are upended into large dhegs, or copper pots and a small amount of cold water is added to it. A fire is then lit below this container which causes the distilled water to convert into steam.

The temperature to which the container is heated determines if the outcome is as desired or whether it will be a waste of good roses. Here, the expertise of the perfume maker plays an important role.

3. The collection of steam in bhapka

Steam passes through the rose petals, and the roses slowly release their essence.

This steam then twirls and passes through copper pipes into another compartment which is cooled continuously by external channels of cold water.

This compartment is completely sealed, and the cold water aids the process of condensation of rose water vapors, which are then collected at the bottom in a specially created container. This container is known as bhapka.

This rose water is then emptied out and filtered with UV (ultraviolet) rays so that all microscopic bacteria are destroyed and the product is fit for human use.

Is Kama Ayurveda Rose Water expensive?

Perfume making through deg-bhapka process is intricate and complex

The deg is closely tended by people skilled in this work to ensure that the delicate volatile aromas of the plant are not destroyed. The knowledge and expertise of the perfume maker play an important role in determining the quality of rose water produced.

In Kannauj, the art of perfume making has been passed on since generations from father to son as a family heirloom.

This craft is so esoteric, so hard, that it is slowly dying and fading away. It is also extremely expensive.

1kg of the purest essence of the rose costs 18,000$ or more. 10 grams of the essence sells for more than 650$.

Rising demand for cheap alcohol-based fragrances, coupled with the high cost of production, has badly affected the perfume industry of Kannauj.

We believe, though, that the moment you experience the true scent of the rose - is priceless.

The purity of Rose Water created from the ancient deg-bhapka method in unmatchable. Therefore, we procure our Pure Rose Water only from the local perfume artisans of Kannauj.

Kama Ayurveda Rose Water and Emotional Health

Jahangir said that “there is no other scent of equal excellence...it lifts the spirit and refreshes the soul.”

Just the mention of Rose brings a cooling and soothing sensation to our senses. The elegant Rose flower has been a symbol of love, friendship, and forgiveness not merely by coincidence.

Did you know that rose balances a special Ayurvedic dosha that governs the emotions and their effects on the heart? This dosha known as Sadhaka Pitta is the caretaker of the heart.

When in balance, Sadhaka Pitta promotes self-confidence, healthy desires, motivation and feelings of fulfillment. However, when out of balance, the same causes negative emotions including self-criticism, low self-esteem, jealousy, and mood swings.

Using Kama Ayurveda Rose Water boosts positive emotions and elevates the experience of happiness and bliss.

Using Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

Roses play a starring role in ayurvedic beauty care and since thousands of years, women have used it in their daily routine in the form of Rose Water.

Because of being a tridoshic flower, Ayurvedic healers recommend it for all people with all kinds of doshas. This makes rose water suitable for all skin types.

Apart from cooling a blazing pitta dosha—the mind-body force associated with fire, heat, anger, ambition, and stress, it also balances Vata and Kapha.

Wondering how to use Kama Ayurveda Rose Water to best benefit from it? Here’s what to do -

Post cleansing, spray Pure Rose Water, allow it to absorb and follow with moisturizer. Pure Rose Water may also be used through the day, as a refreshing spritz.

This video shows how you can use Kama Ayurveda Pure Rose Water as a part of your night skin-care regime.

fyou do this regularly, you can expect these 7 things to start happening to you.

● Your skin begins to glow
Rose water cools, moisturizes, and tones the skin. The essence of rose augments the glow and complexion of the skin. By enhancing all seven dhatus (body tissues), the rose enlivens inner beauty and bring out the natural glow.

● You start feeling goodRose water has strong antidepressant and antianxiety properties that enhance your mood by relaxing your nervous system.

● Your skin breakouts reduceWhen used for a longer period, roses water pacifies the heat in the blood and prevents skin imbalances, thereby preventing the skin from erupting.

● Your dark circles lighten upRosewater is well known for removing dark circles while refreshing tired and stressed eyes. Just by applying it under the eyes every night before sleeping, you can start noticing improvement.

● Your skin becomes free from bacterial infectionsRose water is antibacterial, soothing, healing and has antiseptic properties. Hence, it purifies the skin and protects it from bacterial infections.

● Your skin pH level becomes balancedThe PH of rose water is very close to 5.5 which just so happens to be what your skin’s PH should be. Coincidence? We think it’s a match made in heaven! Using rose water after cleansing balances the PH of your skin and your beauty products absorb better into your skin.

● Your skin feels hydratedWhile some people think that toners dry the skin out, it’s quite the opposite. When natural toner like rose water is used, it freshens up your skin by settling into your pores and providing it with mild hydration. Over time, this improves skin texture significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

What is the shelf-life of Rose Water?

Worried about how long pure rose water will last? Don’t worry, the shelf life of Pure Rose Water is 2 years.

Should I refrigerate Rose Water?

Yes, Pure Rose Water may be refrigerated for a refreshing facial spritz. It will provide a soothing and cooling effect in summers.

Can Rose Water be used as eye drops?

Our Pure Rose Water is recommended for external use only.

Is Rose Water suitable for Acne-Prone skin and sensitive skin?

Yes. Rose Water has soothing, healing, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it suitable for all skin types.

However, if you have active acne and very oily skin, we would suggest you Pure Lavender Water or Pure Vetiver Water.

Conclusion

Rose water is undoubtedly a beauty magic potion. While you will find one in every household of India, it’s only the purest Rose Water that provides the best benefits.

Kama’s Pure Rose Water is a decadent floral distillation that refreshes, hydrates and tones leaving skin scented with the luxuriant scent of pure Roses. It is available at all Kama retail stores as well as on the online store.

How To Use Nalpamaradi Thailam To Remove Tan

If you live in a tropical country, you’ll know how hard it is to maintain a bright and even complexion.

Even with the regular application of sunscreen, the skin gets tanned and damaged over time. Not only this, prolonged exposure to the sun even causes skin problems like hyperpigmentation, dark spots and dullness.

On the lookout for a product to reverse this damage? You’ll be amazed to know that the ancient science of Ayurveda already found the solution centuries back!

To heal the skin from the wrath of the sun, Ayurveda recommends regular massage with a special herbal oil known as Nalpamaradi Thailam. Described as a natural skin illuminator in Ayurveda, Nalpamaradi Thailam is a miracle oil that lightens the complexion and removes tan without causing any harm to the skin.

In this article, we’ll explore all about Nalpamaradi Oil and understand how it’s used to treat skin care problems and remove tan.

What is Nalpamaradi Thailam?

Nalpamaradi Thailam is an Ayurvedic herbal oil made from the stem barks of Ficus trees. These barks are effective in curing various skin diseases, ulcers, and nervous disorders.

For those of you who read about Ficus trees for the first time, you’re more familiar with this tree than you think. Ficus religiosa is the botanical name of the popular Peepal tree.

For the preparation of Nalpamaradi Oil, barks from four different species of Ficus trees are used. The familiar and popular Banyan (Ficus Benghalensis) is a relative of the Peepal, as are Gular/Dumar (Ficus racemosa), Pukar (Ficus benjamina) and Kamarup (Ficus microcarpa).

These four Ficus species, namely Religiosa, Bengalensis, Microcarpa, and Racemosa together are known as Nalpamara in Ayurveda. [1] Nalpamara is the key ingredient of Nalpamaradi Thailam.

In addition to Nalpamara, Nalpamaradi Oil also has other powerful Ayurvedic ingredients that brighten the complexion to reveal a healthy glowing natural skin. Some of these ingredients are Vetiver, Turmeric, and Amla. Sesame oil is used as the base oil to facilitate adsorption of these ingredients into the skin.

Nalpamaradi Tailam is a powerful skin brightening and de-tanning treatment that can be used on both the face and body. It not only lightens the complexion but also softens and repairs the skin.

Other than removing tan, Nalpamaradi Oil has many other uses. Let’s look at a few of them.

Nalpamaradi Thailam Uses

The uses of Nalpamaradi Oil vary based on its composition. The Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment by Kama Ayurveda has the following uses.
● It lightens the complexion of the skin and removes tan

● It repairs pigmentation, uneven skin tone and marks

● It hydrates and nourishes the skin

● It heals the skin from within, relieving it from any environmental damage

Nalpamaradi Thailam and Kumkumadi Tailam are also recommended as a part of bridal beauty regimen for brightening the overall complexion.

How To Use Nalpamaradi Thailam

The procedure to use Nalpamaradi Oil varies according to its composition. To use Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment by Kama Ayurveda, the following steps should be followed.
1. Post cleaning your face and body, pour some oil on your palm.

2. Gently massage on your face in a circular motion until fully absorbed.

3. Gently massage on your body in brisk upward and downward strokes until fully absorbed.

4. Leave it on for 30 minutes.

it’s recommended to use Kama Ayurveda’s Mridul Soap Free Face Cleanser when using Nalpamaradi Thailam for face and Ubtan Soap Free Body Cleanserwhen using the oil on the body.

Nalpamaradi Thailam Benefits and Ingredients

Let’s now explore the key benefits of Nalpamaradi Thailam and the importance of its ingredients -

As mentioned before, the key ingredient of Nalpamaradi Oil is the bark from Ficus Trees. If you grew up in India, chances are you’ve heard about the significance of Peepal Tree. In the ancient times, every household was encouraged to plant peepal tree in their backyard.

Significance of Peepal Tree Bark

Not only is Peepal Tree considered extremely auspicious, but it also has immense health benefits. It is a true ‘Tree of Life’ in the scientific sense.

Did you know that the bark of Peepal tree is an excellent remedy for skin related ailments. The ash from bark of peepal tree is directly applied to the skin to treat conditions like Eczema.

The bark of the Peepal tree is rich in vitamin K. Due to this, it works as an effective complexion corrector and preserver. Other benefits for skin include -

1. Strengthening blood capillaries and minimising skin inflammation
2. Healing skin bruises faster by increasing skin resilience
3. Treating skin issues like pigmentation, wrinkles and dark circles
4. Lightening of surgery and pregnancy marks, scars, and stretch marks.

Significance of Banyan Tree Bark

You may consider Banyan tree and Peepal tree as twin flames. Both the trees are worshipped since the dawn of civilization and have great medicinal value apart from religious significance.

While Peepal works powerfully on Kapha (Water) and Pitta (Fire) Dosha imbalances, Banyan works on Vata (Air) imbalances. Peepal and Banyan are treated as Male and Female counterparts of each other, which is why they are often cultivated in close proximity.

Banyan has similar uses, and is treated as a remedy for swelling, skin wounds, and excessive sweating. Even skin moles can be easily gotten rid of with milk drawn from the bark of a banyan tree.

For these well-knowns benefits for the skin, bark of Ficus trees (together known as Nalpamara) is used to prepare Nalpamaradi Thailam.

Significance of other ingredients in Nalpamaradi Oil

Apart from the key ingredient Nalpamaram, there are other Ayurvedic ingredients in Nalpamaradi Oil that work as skin brightening agents.

Let’s look at a few of them and explore their benefits for the skin.

1. Vetiver - Vetiver has roots that are bittersweet and aromatic in nature. The oil distilled from its roots cures acne, dry skin, aging skin, and skin irritation. The oil is also therapeutic in nature and has soothing effects for the body and the mind. It provides Nalpamaradi Thailam its cooling properties.

2. Turmeric - Turmeric in Nalpamaradi Tailam gives the oil the yellowish tinge. It’s known for providing a youthful glow to the skin. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that lightens skin tone, reduces pigmentation and heals blemishes. It provides Nalpamaradi Thailam its brightening properties.

3. Amla - Not many people are aware of the benefits of amla for the skin. It is a popular Ayurvedic ingredient for treating hair problems. However, it has immense benefits for the skin as well. The natural toning and antibacterial action of Amla help prevent dark spots while adding a healthy glow to the skin. Amla in Nalpamaradi Thailam makes it an effective in treatment for hyperpigmentation.

FAQ about Nalpamaradi Thailam

1. How long does it take to remove tan using Nalpamaradi Oil ?

You can start seeing results within a week of regular application of Kama Ayurveda’s Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment.

2. Should Nalpamaradi Thailam be left overnight?

Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment can be left overnight. However, it will leave stains on clothes as its key ingredient is turmeric, advised to cleanse off after 30 minutes if your skin is oily.

3. Is Nalpamaradi Thailam suitable for oily skin?

Yes, Nalpamaradi Oil is suitable for oily and sensitive skin. However, do not use it more than twice a day.

4. Can Nalpamaradi Thailam be used on babies?

Nalpamaradi Oil can be used on babies, however, it should be diluted with Organic Sweet Almond Oil to make it suitable for the delicate skin of the baby.

5. Can Nalpamaradi Thailam be used by men?

Yes, Nalpamaradi Oil can be used by men as well.

6. Is Nalpamaradi Thailam safe?

Nalpamaradi Oil is 100% natural and safe. This oil may stain yellow due to ingredients such as Turmeric hence suitable precautions must be taken while using it.

7. Are there any side-effects of Nalpamaradi Thailam?

There are no side-effects of Nalpamaradi Oil. However, perform a patch test prior to application.

8. How many times in a week should Nalpamaradi Thailam be used?

Nalpamaradi Oil can be used thrice a week if you have sensitive/oily/acne prone skin. But in case if you have dry or combination skin, it can be used every day.

9. Can Nalpamaradi Thailam be used on skin with active acne?

If your skin has active acne/pimples, then using Nalpamaradi Oil is not recommended.

Conclusion

We all worry about having clear, healthy and glowing skin. Thankfully, Ayurveda has provided us with a wealth of knowledge in the form of special herbal oils like Nalpamaradi Thailam and Kumkumadi Thailam. Applying these herbal oils on the skin is the most natural and effective way to reveal a glowing complexion. Nalpamaradi Oil can be massaged all over the body to remove dan and heal any damage caused by the sun.

References -
1.1. Medicinal Plants India - Nalpamaram

2.2. Planet Ayurveda - Nalpamaradi Thailam

Sesame Oil for Hair: 8 Benefits and How-to-Use Guide

Sesame Oil derived from sesame seeds (til seeds) is the oldest oil ever to be used by mankind.

Sesame seeds (til seeds) are so auspicious that ancient Hindu Mythologies refer to them as the symbol of immortality!

Each sesame seed is a storehouse of many nutrients that provide the oil its antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of its immense health benefits, sesame oil has become an essential part of lifestyle for many.

Popular as one of the healthiest cooking oils, it’s also an effective cosmetic product that heals and treats skin and hair problems. In fact, over 90% percent of Ayurvedic treatments use Sesame Oil as the base product.

In Ayurveda, there is a special significance of using sesame oil for head massage. Its nourishing, calming and warming nature makes it the ideal massage oil.

Massaging Sesame oil into the scalp once a week nourishes the scalp and restores the natural balance and luster of hair.

Though there are multiple applications of Sesame oil, in this article we’ll explore the benefits of using Sesame oil for hair. If you haven’t heard about using sesame oil for hair, you might have many questions about the oil. Let’s start with the most basic one.

Is Sesame Oil Good For Hair?

With the wide variety of hair oils available in the market, one might wonder if sesame oil is even good for hair? To answer this, let’s refer to the translation of one popular Ayurvedic excerpt which talks about sesame oil massage for hair -

“One who applies Sesame Oil on his head regularly does not suffer from headache, baldness, graying of hair or hair fall. The health of his hair and scalp is specially enhanced; his hair becomes black, long and deep-rooted. Applying sesame oil on head induces sound sleep and happiness.”

- Charak Samhita Sutrasthana

Sounds promising, right?

Moving on, let’s understand how sesame oil is produced, how sesame oil benefits hair and how to use sesame oil for hair problems.

What Is Sesame Oil?

Sesame Oil or Gingelly Oil is a vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are cultivated mainly in Africa and some parts of the Indian subcontinent. When these seeds become ripe, their outer shells burst. The oil is then extracted from these seeds by pressing or toasting techniques.

What Is Cold Pressed Sesame Oil?

Sesame Oil obtained by pressing techniques is known as cold-pressed Sesame Oil. It is pale yellow in colour and has a higher proportion of fatty acids which makes it more valuable than other variations of sesame oil. A substance known as sesamolin is present in sesame oil prevents it from oxidation, yielding it longer shelf life.

Cold Pressed Sesame Oil is also an excellent source of Vitamin E which is a natural antioxidant. It is also rich in other nutrients like zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium and iron as well as Vitamin B-6.

These constituents provide protective, nourishing and detoxifying effects to the damaged skin and hair. The high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids in Cold Pressed Sesame Oil yields the oil its moisturizing properties, making it an ideal massage oil.

If you’re looking for cold-pressed Sesame oil, we recommend Kama’s Organic Sesame Oil that is 100% natural, organic and extracted from high quality black sesame seeds.

Regular massage with Sesame Oil is highly recommended to treat common hair problems like dryness and dandruff. Let’s look at some benefits of using sesame oil for hair massage.

Top 8 Sesame Oil Benefits For Hair

Even though the tradition of massaging the hair with oil is centuries old in India, it hasn’t lost its importance. Whether you’re looking to prevent hair loss or you want to protect and strengthen your hair, incorporating sesame oil into your regular hair care routine is a must. Here’s how it benefits hair -

1. Prevents Premature Hair Graying

Massaging your hair and scalp with sesame oil can prevent premature graying. The oil has hair darkening properties which help in retaining the natural color of your hair. Though greying of hair is mostly due to age, sometimes environmental stressors accelerate the process by causing build-up of harmful chemicals in hair. Sesame oil is packed with antioxidants that fight build-up of such free radicals and chemicals, thereby preventing premature graying.

2. Promotes Hair Growth

If you are suffering from hair loss, applying sesame oil on your scalp will facilitate hair growth and prevent baldness. According to the recent studies, using sesame oil is an effective hair loss treatment. Its results are comparable to the medicines like Minoxidil that are prescribed to prevent baldness. Massaging hair with sesame oil improves blood circulation which further promotes hair growth.

Also read - 10 Best Hair Growth Oils Recommended by Ayurveda

3. Protects Hair From Harmful UV Rays

Exposure to the sun causes a lot of harm to hair follicles and the scalp. Sesame oil benefits hair by acting as a natural sun-blocking agent. Massaging hair with sesame oil forms a protective coating around the hair shaft which prevents it from the harmful rays of the sun. The protective layer also guards hair against the damaging effects of pollution.

4. Treats Head Lice

Sesame oil is antibacterial and using it on the scalp helps in fighting fungal and bacterial infections. It can be diluted with oils such as neem oil and tea tree oil to treat specific conditions like lice.

5. Soothes Heat Damaged And Dry Hair

Harsh heat is damaging to the hair follicles. Sesame oil has soothing properties because of which it acts as a coolant. The oil is highly penetrative and heals internal damage by providing deep nourishment. It works as a wonderful remedy for dry hair due to its moisturising properties. It also locks the moisture content in hair shafts, thus preventing further damage due to heat and pollution.

6. Prevents Hair Fall Due To Stress

Sesame oil also has tranquilizing properties. Massaging hair with sesame oil relieves anxiety and prevents hair fall caused by stress. It is a great remedy for migraine and insomnia. Other relaxing oils like Eucalyptus oil or Ylang Ylang oil can be added to sesame oil to enhance its soothing effect.

7. Prevents Dandruff

Sesame oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in keeping the scalp clean and healthy. Massaging hair with sesame oil prevents aggravation of dandruff and fights the itching sensation.

Sesame oil is an effective treatment for many hair problems. Therefore, it’s also used as a base for effective hair treatments. One of them is Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment. It is a potent blend of Bhringraj, Amla & Indigo in a Sesame oil base. This blend works all-in-one Ayurvedic treatment for hair loss, premature graying & dandruff, that restores hair back to health.

Also read - 11 Sesame Oil Benefits For Skin & Best Ways To Use It

How To Use Sesame Oil For Hair?

Sesame oil is an excellent aSesame oil is an excellent adsorbent and is used in combination with other treatment oils and essential oils to improve their absorption into hair. Here are a few ways in which sesame oil is used for hair.

1. Sesame Oil Massage For Hair Deep Conditioning

Apply the oil to scalp and gently massage hair from root to tip. You can warm the oil before applying for better results. Apply the oil to the scalp and gently massage hair from root to tip. You can warm the oil before applying for better results. Leave it on hair for 20 minutes and then with a mild hair cleanser and warm water. You can massage your hair with sesame oil once or twice per week.

2. Sesame Oil and Neem Oil Massage for Hair Dandruff

Sesame oil is also used in combination with Neem oil for hair. It is recommended to dilute equal parts (50/50) of Sesame oil is also used in combination with Neem oil for hair. It is recommended to dilute equal parts (50/50) of Neem Oil with Sesame Oil and gently massage into the scalp. Leave the treatment on for 30 minutes to work well and then cleanse with a mild hair cleanser. Neem oil also has immense benefits for hair which are absorbed better into the hair with the help of sesame oil.

3. Sesame Oil and Sweet Almond Oil Massage for hair

Combination of sesame oil and Sweet almond oil is also used for deep conditioning as almond oil is a rich source of fatty acids. Equal parts of both oil and be combined and used for hair massage. Leave the treatment for 30-40 minutes before rinsing off with a mild cleanser.

4. Sesame Oil and Coconut Oil Massage for hair

Coconut oil is also a deep conditioner that heals damaged hair when used with sesame oil for hair massage. For this treatment, equal parts of both oil and be combined and used for hair massage. Leave the treatment for 30-40 minutes before rinsing off with a mild cleanser.

5. Sesame Oil And Aloe Vera

Blend equal parts of fresh aloe vera gel with sesame oil to form a smooth paste. This mixture is great for hydrating your scalp and promoting hair growth. Apply to your scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with a mild cleanser.

6. Sesame Oil And Avocado

Mash a ripe avocado and mix it with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil to form a creamy paste. This combination is rich in essential fatty acids and nutrients, providing deep hydration and nourishment to your hair. Leave on for 30-40 minutes before washing off.

7. Sesame Oil And Curry Leaves

Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil and add some curry leaves to it. Allow it to cool. The blend promotes hair growth and prevents graying. Massage the oil into your scalp and leave for 30 minutes before washing.

8. Ginger And Sesame Oil

Blend ginger to extract its juice and mix with sesame oil. You can mix one teaspoon of ginger juice with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. This combination helps to tackle hair loss and promotes hair growth. Apply to your scalp, leave for 30 minutes, and rinse with a gentle shampoo.

9. Sesame Oil And Fenugreek

Place fenugreek seeds in a jar filled with sesame oil. Then, place this jar in a pot of boiling water. After a couple of minutes, turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool until it's just slightly warm.

Massage this oil blend into your scalp, ensuring it covers your hair thoroughly. For enhanced absorption, wrap your hair with a hot towel. Let it sit for 30-40 minutes, then cleanse your hair with a mild shampoo. This mask is known to combat dandruff and hair fall.

10. Sesame Oil And Honey

Combine equal parts of 3 tablespoons of sesame oil with 1 teaspoon honey. This mask is great for adding shine and softness to your hair. Apply the mixture from roots to tips, allow it to sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse with a mild cleanser.

Can We Apply Sesame Oil To Hair Daily?

Using sesame oil on your hair daily depends on your hair type, the condition of your hair, and the desired outcome. Here are some things to consider:

Hair Type:

For dry, frizzy, or damaged hair: Daily use can be beneficial, as sesame oil can provide the necessary moisture and nourishment.

For oily hair: Daily application might make hair too greasy. It might be better to use it less frequently, such as once or twice a week.

Hair Condition:

If you have dandruff or scalp issues, regular application can help alleviate these problems.
However, if you're prone to clogged hair follicles or scalp acne, daily application might exacerbate the issue.

Purpose:

If you're using it for deep conditioning, then 1-2 times a week might be sufficient.
If you're using a few drops to tame frizz or add shine, daily use might be fine.

Residue Build-up: Applying oil daily can lead to product build-up over time, which can make hair look limp or weighed down. It's crucial to ensure you're washing it out thoroughly, possibly using a clarifying shampoo once a week.

Adverse Reactions: If you notice any itching, irritation, or increased hair fall, it's a sign that daily application might not be suitable for you.

Quantity: If you're thinking about daily application, consider using a smaller amount. A few drops can go a long way.

In conclusion, while it's possible to use sesame oil on your hair daily, it's essential to monitor how your hair and scalp react and adjust your routine accordingly. If you're unsure, consider doing a patch test or consulting with a hair care specialist or dermatologist.

FAQ about Sesame Oil

What are the other names of Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is known by different names in different parts of India. It’s known as Til Tel in Bengali, Til ka tel in Hindi, El Ennev in Tamil, Nuvvula nune in Telugu, Ellena in Malayalam and Tilache Tel in Marathi. Sesame oil is a part of Indian traditions since centuries and every region has its name for the oil.

Is Sesame Oil edible?

Not all types of sesame oil are suitable for consumption. Some of them are only for topical use. For instance, Kama’s Organic Sesame oil is inedible but works as an effective head-to-toe treatment for all skin and hair types. Always check whether the oil is suitable for consumption before using it for anything other than external massages.

How to use Sesame Oil for hair growth?

To use sesame oil for hair loss problems, it can be massaged directly to hair. However, if you are looking for a more effective solution to hair fall, you can try Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment. In addition to Sesame oil, it also has Indigo, Eclipta Alba and Gooseberry which promotes hair growth.

Can I leave sesame oil in my hair overnight?

Yes, you can leave sesame oil in your hair overnight for deep conditioning. Just make sure to wrap your hair to prevent oil stains on your pillowcase.

Potential Drawbacks:

While sesame oil can be beneficial for hair, it's essential to be aware of potential issues:

Clogged Pores: Sesame oil, like other oils, can block pores. This can lead to scalp irritation and even hair loss. To minimize this risk, it's advisable to keep pure sesame oil on your scalp and hair for only short durations.
Residue Build-up: It's crucial to thoroughly wash out the sesame oil after a treatment. Use a good shampoo and warm water, gently massaging your scalp to ensure no oil residue remains. This prevents any long-term build-up that can negatively affect your hair and scalp.
Risk of Burns: If you choose to warm sesame oil for a more comfortable application, be cautious. Overheated oil can lead to scalp burns and hair damage. Always test the oil's temperature with a small drop on the inside of your wrist before applying it to your scalp and hair.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of sesame oil for your hair while minimizing potential drawbacks.

Conclusion

Sesame seeds have immense benefits for hair. Using sesame oil for head massage and eating sesame seeds can give your hair the health and luster you have always wanted. There are many ways of including sesame oil in your hair care routine.

You can use it alone or in combination with other hair oils. Sesame oil is also used as a base for Ayurvedic hair treatments as its effectiveness multiplies manifold when used with other Ayurvedic ingredients. One such treatment is Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment by Kama

References

Sesamum Indicum (Sesame or til): seeds and oil — An historic and scientific evaluation from Indian perspective - NC Shah
Goldberg, Sharon (1995). "Sesame Oil, a featured ingredient". Flavor & Fortune.
Katzer G (17 December 1999). "Spice Pages: Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum)"

Charak Samhita Sutrasthana - Easy Ayurveda

How To Use Toner – Your Complete Guide To Skin Toners

Is a toner necessary for your skin?

This question often pops up in our head while going through skin care regimes. Almost all of these regimes recommend using toners. However, its purpose isn’t well understood by many.

What exactly does a toner do to your skin? Why is toning such an important step? How to use toner and when should a toner be used? In this article, we picked up and answered many such questions about skin toner from across the web and from our customers.

This guide to skin toners will help you understand which toner is best suited to your skin and how you can make it a part of your skincare regime.

Let’s get started with the basics.

What is a toner?

A toner is usually water-based skin care product that includes plant extracts and essential oils, tailored to address a variety of skin types.

Earlier, many toners used to be alcohol-based, but they had a reputation of being bad for the skin as they cause excessive dryness. Recently, natural water-based toners have become an essential part of skin care regimes. They are derived through the steam distillation of flowers and other ingredients known to be good for your skin.

For instance, Kama’s range of natural toners include distillations of Rose, Lavender, Vetiver & Mogra that keep the skin hydrated and lightly fragranced.

The functions of a toner vary significantly based on its composition. However, there are some benefits that almost all of them provide. Let’s discover what they are.

What does a skin toner do? - Top Benefits

Regular use of toner can really change your skin for the better. If you are thinking of including toner in your skin care routine, here is a list of proven benefits to motivate your further.

1.Restores The pH Balance Of Your Skin

Does your skin feel dry after cleansing? Some cleansers are harsh on the skin. They contain ingredients that disrupt the skin's natural pH balance, making it more prone to bacterial infection, inflammation, or dryness.

The skin's optimal pH is 5.5. When you use toner on your face regularly, the optimum pH level (acid mantle) is maintained. This acid mantle acts as a barrier to germs and bacteria while keeping the skin moisturized and healthy.

2. Tightens Up The Pores Of Your Skin

More dirt and oil enters the skin when the pores are large. These impurities makes the skin more prone to acne and infections. Regular use of toner tightens the pores and shrinks their overall size. Hence, less oil and toxins settle in the skin creating a fresher and cleaner look. By toning, the skin becomes visibly smoother, and it becomes harder for the debris to penetrate it.

3. Helps In Preventing Skin Breakouts

When sweat, oil, and dirt become clogged in the pores, it results in skin breakouts. Oily skin is more prone to acne and pimples for this reason. Toners are helpful in treating this situation. By removing oil buildup, residue, and dead skin cells, facial toners control acne and other skin breakouts.

4. Prepare The Skin To Absorb Moisture Better

There is a reason why toning is done right after cleansing and just before moisturizing. The hydrating ingredients present in the toner prep the skin to absorb the moisture better. The skin is usually tight and dry right after cleansing. Moist skin can better absorb topical products than dry skin. Hence, toning ensures that your favorite moisturizer can nourish your skin deeply.

5. Toner helps in complete cleansing

Even after cleansing, some of the impurities remain on the skin. This might be the residual makeup or some of the oil content left behind by the cleansers. An essential purpose of a toner is to get rid of them and to clean the pores from within. Toners also remove environmental toxins and chemical residues from your skin, revealing a brighter and healthier complexion.

What experts say -

"Think of toner as the second line of defense in your cleansing routine. After washing away impurities, a toner swoops in to capture any stragglers and to prepare the skin for hydration." - Dr Kanchan Kachroo

When To Use Toner?

The short answer to this question is "it goes after cleansing." A toner is used as the second part of the cleansing process, preferably once in the morning and once at night.

Now that you know the many benefits of using a toner let’s move on to understanding how to use toner and when to use it. Here are the steps that you need to follow to tone your skin well.

Step 1 - Wash your face with a mild natural cleanser. Gently massage the cleanser on your face to get rid of makeup and dirt.

Step 2 - Pour some toner on a cotton pad or cotton ball until it feels damp but not overly soaked. Gently wipe it on your face and neck to remove the remaining impurities.

Alternatively, you can even spray the toner on your face for a refreshing feeling and an extra dose of hydration.

Step 3 - After using the toner, your skin is ready to absorb skin care products. You can now apply your moisturizer or your skin treatment products.

While this is the most basic way to use the toner, it can also be used in combination with face packs and masks to help them penetrate deeper into the skin and get the best results.Toning is also an essential part of cleaning the face and used in facial clean-ups.

Also read - How To Clean Face Like A Pro - 6 Simple Steps

Which skin toner should I use?

Now, you might be wondering which skin toner is most suited to your skin type. With a large number of options that exist, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one.

Different toners target different, specific skin concerns, like dehydration, skin aging, sensitivity, and acne. Here, we have talked in detail about a few natural toners and the skin types they are best suited for.

In the next section, we have discussed a few natural toners and the skin types they are best suited for.

Let’s start with looking at the best toner for oily skin type.

Best Toner for Oily Skin

Suppose you have oily skin that is more prone to acne and skin breakouts. In that case, you require a toner that can relieve the skin from stickiness without leaving behind any residues stuck in the pores.

Pure Lavender Water is a suitable toner for oily skin type. Lavender is a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredient that cools and refreshes in hot and humid weather. Refrigerating Lavender Water further amplifies its soothing properties and makes it even more useful for oily skin during summers. It serves as a natural astringent and doesn’t dry out the skin too much. [1]

However, to ensure the best results, use only water-based alcohol-free lavender water. Kama’s Pure Lavender Water is prepared through steam distillation of lavender flowers sourced from the Himalayas. It is 100% pure, alcohol-free, and well-suited toner for oily skin. Well suited for tropical climatic conditions, it’s the best toner for oily skin in India.

Now, you might be wondering how to use toner for oily skin?

Are there any specific things that you should keep in mind? How often should you use toner on your skin? Should you avoid certain types of toners? So, below we’ve mentioned some tips for using toner for oily skin.

Stay away from drying astringent toners with alcohol. People with oily skin are attracted to these toners because they feel really good at first. But ultimately, they dry out the skin and damage it.
To balance the oil in your skin, use hydrating toners. The best toner for oily skin attract water and lock it into the skin.
Dehydration and dryness often accompany oily skin. Again, the solution is to use hydrating toners. One of the best toners for oily skin is Kama Ayurveda’s Pure Lavender Water. If you are using such a natural toner, you can apply it as often as you like.

Best Toner for Dry Skin

For dry and sensitive skin, toners made from jasmine flowers are well suited. Jasmine is beneficial for dry skin as it provides natural moisture without clogging the pores. It efficiently replenishes lost moisture reserves, and restores lost radiance to the skin, smoothening any dehydration-induced early fine lines and wrinkles.

Kama’s Pure Mogra Water made from steam distillation of jasmine flowers sourced from Madurai is 100% pure, natural and highly recommended toner for sensitive skin and dry skin. Well suited for tropical climatic conditions, it’s the best toner for dry skin in India.

Best Toner for Acne Prone Skin

Rose water is a natural astringent that balances and restores skin's PH level, helps tighten pores and acts as the perfect alcohol-free toner for oily or acne-prone skin. The antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of rose make it an effective anti-acne ingredient.

Rose also has cooling properties and is exceptionally gentle on the skin. Using rose water as toner prevents future breakouts and helps in healing of existing pimples and acne.

Also read - 5 Secrets About Kama Ayurveda Rose Water

For best results, only 100% pure and natural rose water must be used. It’s suitable for all skin types and has a host of benefits for the skin. Kama’s Pure Rose Water is made from the roses of Kannauj - a region in North India, through a steam distillation process that ensures a high level of hygiene and unmatched purity.

Best Toner For Men

If you’re wondering whether toners are essential for men as well, then the answer is yes! If you’re looking for natural toners for men, then Vetiver water is the most suitable option. Vetiver grass (Khus) has roots that are bittersweet and aromatic in nature.

It is a refreshing face and body mist that is highly cooling, earthy and rejuvenating. Due to its earthy and woody scent, it’s well-suited toner for men and can also be used as an aftershave astringent.

best toner for combination skin in india

Kama’s Pure Vetiver Water is steam distilled from the roots of perennial Vetiver grass native to Aligarh Region in north India. It’s a 100% pure natural toner and suitable for men. Women with combination skin type can also use Vetiver water. Suitable for tropical climate, it’s the best toner for combination skin in India.

How To Use Toner - 5 Tips and Hacks

There are numerous ways to start using a toner to get its benefits for your skin. The most common one is the simple Cleanse, Tone and Moisturize routine in the morning and day time. In this section, we’ve highlighted some other ways to use a toner.

Prepare a DIY Mask - If you like pampering yourself with face masks, you can prepare one for yourself by using either of the above-mentioned toners. Simply soak cotton pads with your choice of toner and place the cotton pads all over your face for about five minutes. This is a quick and convenient way to hydrate and soothe your dry and inflamed skin quickly.
Soothe Your Skin After Threading or Waxing - Natural floral toners have soothing properties which help in calming down the redness and inflammation instantly. Refrigerating (not freezing) the toner amplifies the soothing properties.
Use It As A Body or Face Mist - Some of us have sensitive skin that gets irritated with the use of synthetic fragrances. Natural toners prepared from steam distillation of flowers can be used as body as face mist as they do not have any side-effects. Toners that come in spray bottles are perfect for use as face mist. You can even use face mist to set your makeup and eliminate the powdery finish.
Use It To Enhance Benefits Of Face Packs - - Natural and pure toners can be used in place of water while preparing the face packs. Blend it with natural ingredients like Multani Mitti, Sandalwood, Almond, Turmeric, Gram flour and the like to prepare 100 percent natural face pack. You can also choose from our range of natural face masks.

5. Relax And Soothe Your Eyes - Spraying or applying refrigerated toner to your under eye area and over your eyelids will provide you with a soothing feeling.

FAQs About Using Toners

1. Can we apply toner at night?

Yes, you can apply toner both in the morning and at night after cleansing. Using it at night helps remove any residual makeup or impurities and preps your skin for nighttime skincare products.

2. What does a toner do to your face?

A toner:

Helps to balance the skin's pH levels.
Removes residual makeup, oils, and impurities that cleansing might miss.
Refreshes the skin.
Can tighten and minimize the appearance of pores.
Prepares the skin to better absorb the products applied afterward, such as serums and moisturizers.

3. Are there any side effects of toner on your face?

Possible side effects of toner include:

Dryness or irritation, especially if it contains alcohol or other astringent ingredients.
Allergic reactions in people sensitive to certain ingredients.
A stinging or burning sensation.
Over-drying, which can lead to increased oil production in some people. To minimize potential side effects, it's essential to choose a toner that suits your skin type and to do a patch test if you're trying a new product.

4. When to use toner - day or night?

You can use a toner both day and night after cleansing. In the morning, it can help to remove any oils produced overnight and prepare the skin for makeup. At night, it assists in removing any remaining impurities and prepping the skin for your nighttime skincare routine.

5. Can we use toner daily?

Yes, most toners are designed for daily use. However, how often you should use a toner depends on its formulation and your skin type. If you find your skin becoming dry or irritated, you might want to reduce the frequency or try a gentler toner. Always follow the product's recommendations and pay attention to how your skin reacts.

6. How to use toner and serum?

Toner:

Start by cleansing your face thoroughly.
Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad or ball.
Gently sweep the cotton pad over your face, ensuring you avoid the eye area.
Allow the toner to dry (this usually takes a few seconds).

Serum:

After toning, take a few drops of serum onto your fingertips.
Gently apply it to your face, patting it into the skin until absorbed.
Follow up with moisturizer to seal in the serum and hydrate your skin.

Conclusion

Toners have become a necessary part of skin care regime for women as well as men. However, every skin type is unique and has different requirements. Understanding the needs of your skin is vital for finding the right toner for yourself. Start by identifying your skin type and then pick a natural plant-derived water-based cleanser that is most suited for you. Make sure that your toner does not contain harmful chemicals.

Also read - How to build your own skincare routine?

Regular use of toner will ensure that your skin remains hydrated. The purpose of the toner is to keep your skin hydrated. Do not go for alcohol-based toners as they have a terrible reputation for drying out the skin too much. Plant-based toners that are derived through steam distillation process have unmatched purity, can be used regularly without any side effects and are highly recommended for the skin.

References -

1. Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Diseases

2. Acne and Rosacea - American Academy of Dermatology

3. Cultivation and Utilization of Aromatic Plants. National Institute Of Industrial Research. p. 220. ISBN 978-81-7833-027-3.

4. "Technical Bulletin No. 2001/1" (PDF). Pacific Rim Vetiver Network. September 2001.

Cleanse Shield Heal – Summer Skin Care Tips By Kama

Summer is already here, and we know what’s on your mind. You want that glowing, healthy and clear skin despite all the challenges that come with this changing season.

After all, the summer season is a difficult time for your skin.

Oily skin suddenly turns oilier and dry skin is suddenly patchy at places. And, let’s not even get started about the combination skin type!

Add to that the difficulty of finding the perfect cleanser that removes dirt without drying out the skin too much. Or, the ideal sunscreen that protects the skin without making it look all oily.

Well, if this season has got you on your feet looking for skin care regimes to solve your summer skin care problems, don’t worry, we’ve got it covered for you.

How can I get glowing skin in summer?

After going summer skin care concerns shared by thousands of our users, we came up with this simple yet effective skin care regime that answers your number one question -

Taking care of your skin in summer consists of three necessary steps - Cleanse, Shield and Heal.

1. Cleanse - During summer your skin will be oily and sweaty, attracting a lot of impurities from the environment. Cleansing gently ensures that the impurities don’t get clogged into pores and result in skin problems like acne.
2. Shield - While sunscreen is a must for your skin during all seasons, during summers you should re-apply it after every few hours to prevent aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Heal - Despite the use of sunscreen, your skin will get tanned and the environmental pollution will cause some skin damage. Every night, take out time to repair and treat this damage through facial oils and night creams.
And with the right products, this simple regime can help you look radiant even in summers!

1. Cleanse

Let’s break down each step for you to understand better.

Here are a few Summer Skin Care Tips for Cleansing -

1. Go All-Natural

The way to cleanse your face in summers is to go all-natural. Using only natural ingredients on your face ensures that your skin isn’t ripped off from its natural moisture. Kama Ayurveda’s Rose Jasmine Face Cleanser contains Aloe Vera and Vetiver roots that leave the skin feeling hydrated, soft, and rejuvenated

2. Exfoliate for an even skin tone

Exfoliation in summers is vital to remove dead skin cells that damage your skin texture. Consider using Kama Ayurveda’s Mridul Soap-Free Cleanser made from natural exfoliating ingredients like Green Gram, Neem, Sandalwood, and Fennel that gently cleanse dirt, dead skin, and impurities without stripping skin of its natural oils.

Cleansing and refreshing the skin is essential during summer to remove sweat and oil deposits. During this is the time of year, the skin is prone to clogged pores, blackheads, pimples and acne. For this reason, ensure that you cleanse thoroughly in the morning as well at night.

3. Take extra care of sensitive skin

Dryness, redness, and flakiness of skin is often a result of environmental pollution. Use cleansers rich in anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredients like Sandalwood Oil and Aloe Vera to reverse this skin damage. Kama Ayurveda’s Sensitive Skin Cleansing Foam is well-suited for delicate skin.

2. Shield

Prolonged exposure to the sun causes dark spots, patches, fine lines, and wrinkles. All of us dread these harmful effects of the sun. Don’t we? Therefore, shielding well is the way to go!

Here are a few Summer Skin Care Tips for Shielding -

1. Higher SPF isn’t always better

One myth associated with sunscreen is that the higher the SPF, the more protection it offers. However, studies suggest that an all-natural sunscreen with SPF 21 is more effective than a sunscreen with higher SPF that is loaded with chemicals. The frequency of application is more critical hence, the sunscreen should be applied generously after every 2-3 hours of sun exposure.

2. Keep your skin hydrate

Open pores accumulate dirt and sweat which later lead to skin breakouts. The solution is simple - use a natural toner to tighten the pores and hydrate the skin regularly. Kama’s Pure Mogra Water, made from indigenous Jasmine flowers of Madurai in South India, is well suited for summers and leaves the skin revived and hydrated.

Pro Summer Tip - Keep your bottle of Mogra Water refrigerated to give your skin that refreshing spray that gives you a boost every time you use it.

3. Don’t forget those lips!

With increased exposure to the sun, our lips can also become dark and pigmented. Shield your lips by using effective lip care like Kama’s Mint Lip Balm. With pure extracts of Mint, it protects and nourishes lips and prevents them from extreme weather conditions and pollution.

3. Heal

Perhaps you forgot to apply the sunscreen and spent the day out in the sun. Or you just had a great time at the beach or the pool, but now you see how your skin’s become all dull. What do you now? The final step of our regime is useful here.

Here a few Summer Skin Care tips on healing -

1. Give yourself a de-tanning treatment

If you notice that your skin’s tanned and damaged by the sun, then consider give yourself a full body Ayurvedic massage with natural oils that treat sun damage. Kama’s Jwalini Retexturizing Skin Treatment is highly recommended as it also treats hyperpigmentation and skin irritation.

2. Soothe your skin with Neem

Neem oil is known for its cooling effect. During summers, it should be diluted (50-50) with sweet almond oil and applied on the face. Not only neem oil soothes and heals the skin but also clears bacteria that causes pimples and acne.

3. Rejuvenate your skin overnight

After the tiring day out in the sun, your skin deserves to rest at night just like you do. Applying a night cream that works overnight to relieve signs of aging is an essential part of summer skincare regime. Kama’s Rejuvenating and Brightening Ayurvedic Night Cream contains extract of Indian madder and banyan tree which helps to smooth fine lines and repair early sign of ageing.

Ayurveda For Your Lungs

Your lungs are constantly working to provide your body with all the oxygen it needs to function well. The respiratory system is vital for you to live. However, just like all other systems of our body, even the respiratory system is prone to wear and tear, more so due to high levels of toxins and pollutants in the air.

Lung health also varies from season to season. In Ayurvedic context, when too much Vata (space +air) accumulates in the lungs we experience breathlessness, dry coughs, asthma, hoarseness of the voice, weak voice, pain when breathing and even lung allergies. If you are experiencing any of these, your lung health might be out of balance.

Ayurveda has effective remedies to bring an agitated dosha back into balance through diet, lifestyle and herb concoctions. To ensure the health of our lungs, let’s dive into ancient wisdom that’s highly effective even today.

UNDERSTANDING AMA AND OJAS

Bala, which means strength, is the Ayurvedic word for immunity. There are two major elements that impact Bala, and these are Ama and Ojas. Ama is the sticky product of undigested food, and lowers immunity in the body. When it spreads in the body, it clogs the channels that carry food to the cells and the channels that remove wastes. Ojas is the opposite of Ama. It is the product of perfect digestion, and enhances health and wellbeing. The goal of all treatments and therapies of Ayurveda is to enhance Ojas. Lung health imbalance is caused by increase an in Ama in the lungs.

CAUSES OF INCREASES AMA IN LUNGS

Improper diet - Consuming heavy, oily, cold foods that are hard to break down or eating leftovers the next morning will hamper the digestive system
Polluted air - Toxin particles like smoke, dust, pollen, dirt circulating in the air enter the lungs while breathing and cause irritation.
Seasonal Changes - Our body functions differently in each season owing to different temperature and climate. Seasons like autumn and early spring make us especially prone to respiratory problems.
Exercise - Both no exercise or extremely strenuous exercise is harmful for the lungs. Heavy lifting beyond your capacity causes strain on the lungs while on the other hand not exercising reduces the oxygen intake capacity of your lungs.
Emotional grief - An overload of stress or grief can also affect the lungs.

INCREASING OJAS IN LUNGS BY INCLUDING AYURVEDIC HERBS IN YOUR DIET

Consuming the right foods plays a vital part in healing and strengthening of the lungs. Ayurveda suggests herbs, to be included in your diet, which will aid respitory functions in your body.

Cardamon - Add this aromatic, stimulating and refreshing herb to your diet to strengthen your lungs and ignite your digestive fire.
Eucalyptus - Loaded with antioxidants, this herb not only boosts immunity of the lungs but also soothes irritated sinus passages and fights congestion in lungs.
Licorice - This soothing herb is especially effective for dry cough. It softens the mucus membranes of the throat, lungs and stomach.
Pippali - A powerful lung rejuvenator that helps with asthmatic conditions and eliminates toxins.
Holy Basil - This sacred refreshing herb possesses healing powers and removes toxins from the lungs.

IMPROVING LUNG HEALTH WITH DAILY PRAYANAMA

Breathing exercises are a lifesaver for your lungs. Dedicate 15-20 mins a day to actively work with your breath and you’ll breathe easier with stronger lungs and clearer airways. Pranayama is an excellent way to revitalize prana within the body. Pranayama is a practice in controlling the breath. It cleanses and strengthens the physical body while calming the mind. It is important to practice with the proper posture to allow the breath to move freely in the body.

Healthy lungs bring vitality (Prana). That's why Ayurveda refers to the respiratory system as Prana Vaha Srotas. With these tips you will not only prevent illness, but also nurture your lungs so they can fulfil their life-sustaining role each day.

Ayurveda-Approved Summertime Drinks

Every Indian household has sensorial memories of home-made Summertime drinks, prepared by mothers, aunts and grandmothers. These drinks energised us and made us feel good. This is because these recipes focussed on what wise women running Indian homes knew to be the source of beauty and wellness problems – digestion! This is also one of the principal tenets of the Ayurvedic view on health and vitality.

As the incessantly hectic pace of Life continues to wreak havoc on our skin, hair, and digestive health, is it not a good idea to revisit the benefits of these simple, wholesome recipes? We call them ‘beauty drinks’, because their balancing impact on internal physiology results in a soothed, radiant, and reinvigorated outer appearance. Let us look at a few quintessential favourites beyond the all-too familiar Lemonade or Shikanji; and understand how they work in our favour as we go about our day in the relentless Summer heat.

ROSE, JASMINE AND KHUS SHERBETS

Sherbet is derived from the Arabic word shariba (‘to drink’). Sherbets became popular in India during the rule of the Mughal emperor Babur. It is believed he would send people to the Himalayas, to procure fresh ice for his favourite drink. Rose, Jasmine, and Khus (Vetiver) are aromatherapy favourites for the Indian Summer. It is not surprising then, that they should make their way into Summer food and drink as well.

Ayurveda upholds Rose and Jasmine as Sattvic, or ‘Transcendental, Life-Giving and Pure.’ They are believed to soothe the heart, in that they settle scattered and troubled emotions, relieving stress and anxiety in the process. Rose helps regulate internal body temperature, while Jasmine helps replenish the body’s natural hydration levels. Rose positively impacts Sadhaka Pitta, or the sub-dosha of Pitta that governs emotional wellbeing. It washes over Sadhaka Agni, or the digestive fire that 'cooks' emotions, moderating and maintaining its 'flickering' at optimum levels. Ayurveda says that Khus induces Saumanasya Janana, or ‘Mind-Body Tranquillity.’ Khus Sherbet makes for a sublime thirst quencher. It also helps boost blood circulation and provides antioxidant protection for skin against free radical damage.

CHAAS/CHHAACHH & LASSI

Chaas/Chhaachh and Lassi are traditional (and very popular!) Yoghurt or Buttermilk based drinks in Indian homes. They are Summer staples especially at the lunch table, because of their nearly-instantaneous cooling effect, specifically on the digestive tract. They buffer against dehydration and are the perfect option if you know you are likely to spend a long day out in the Sun. Chaas/Chhaachh and Lassi are quite similar, except the latter can be prepared with Sugar, but the former usually is not. Mango is the general favourite for flavouring a sweet Lassi, but a savoury version – with Rock Salt, Cumin, Mint or Curry leaves and Asafoetida – has its own fan following. Chaas/Chhaachh is especially popular in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The recipe includes the same spices and condiments as Lassi, but depending on personal taste, a pinch of Red Chilli Powder or sliced Green Chillies may also be added.

Even Ayurveda recommends these drinks because they help calm the stomach after a heavy, or spicy meal, prevent dehydration, and reduce the discomfort of swelling or bloating, and constipation.

AAM PANNA & PANAKAM

Aam Panna is a sweet-tangy cooler, its principal ingredient being Green Mango. Ayurveda says that the sour, astringent, and cooling qualities of Green Mango should be balanced with the complementary condiments, so that healthy digestion is supported, and the body is strengthened and revitalised. Aam Panna is made with Sugarcane Juice or Jaggery, Cardamom, and Black Pepper. Panakam is traditionally prepared in South India during the festival of Ram Navami. It is called a ‘Vedic drink’ because it is believed to be the favourite of the Indian God Narsimha, and of Goddesses like Durga and Shakti. The recipe includes Jaggery, Salt, Ginger, Lemon, Water, Cardamom and even Tulsi (Holy Basil).

Both Aam Panna and Panakam bolster the immune system, help prevent diarrhoea and dehydration, protect the health and strength of eyes and improve the tone and texture of skin. Jaggery, the main ingredient in Panakam, is Ayurveda’s natural alternative to processed sugar, and also forms the base of liquid fermented Ayurvedic medicines. It is believed to balance the 3 Doshas – Vata, Pitta, Kapha. Jaggery is also an effective blood purifier for a clean, blemish-free complexion.

How To Overcome Irregular Periods Naturally

The menstrual cycle of a woman is a window to her overall reproductive health. The regular menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, however, our bodies don’t always work like clockworks. We might experience delays or irregularities in our periods once in while. As many as 30 percent women report having experienced irregular periods during their childbearing years.

However, if the periods become highly regular, it indicates that the body is going through severe hormonal imbalances. While it is normal to experience some discomfort and pain during periods, irregular periods need to be treated with caution as they could result from other health complications.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF IRREGULAR PERIODS OR A DISTURBED MENSTRUAL CYCLE?

If the number of days between stopping and starting your period is significantly different each month, you have an irregular cycle. Here are a few things that you might experience as a result of irregular periods.

You experience bleeding that is not a part of your natural periodic cycle.
You get periods even after menopause.
Your periods are longer or heavier than usual
You get periods even after menopause.
You have your period more often than once in 21 days.
You have your period less often than once in 35 days

Even if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, there is no need to worry. In most cases, irregular periods are due to hormonal balance caused by improper lifestyle and diet. Let’s explore what Ayurveda says about the menstrual cycle and menstrual health.

AYURVEDA’S TAKE ON MENSTRUAL HEALTH

Ayurveda provides with immense knowledge and insight into women’s reproductive system which helps us understand how to overcome irregular periods naturally. The menstrual cycle is considered a blessing as it provides women’s body a chance to renew and eliminate the toxins.

Ayurveda suggests that the menstrual cycle of every woman is influenced by the three doshas - Vata, Kapha, and Pitta. By understanding the dominant doshas in your body, you can make the required changes in your diet and lifestyle to help maintain a regular menstrual cycle.

WHAT CAUSES IRREGULAR PERIODS ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA?

Apana Vata is the ayurvedic subdosha of Vata that governs the menstrual cycle. It is located in the lower abdomen and is responsible for the downward flow through the intestines, urinary and reproductive tracts. The imbalance of this particular dosha is responsible for irregular periods according to Ayurveda. Stress, improper diet, long-term illnesses, lack of physical exercise, over-exertion and certain medications result in such an imbalance of Apana Vata.

In some cases, irregular periods are caused by complex underlying conditions like Ectopic pregnancy, Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome, Anemia, Anorexia or Thyroid. It is also common to experience irregular periods just at the onset of periods (during puberty) and during the pre-menopause phase. In all conditions, one can find some relief by following an Ayurvedic lifestyle and diet.

THE AYURVEDIC APPROACH

PROPER DIET

Ayurveda emphasizes on following a regular and healthy diet that is rich in nutrients. If one doesn’t eat at regular intervals and at proper hours, the hormone levels fluctuate which in turn affects the menstrual cycle. During menstruation, one must stick to lighter meals and avoid meat, pickles, and sweets so that the digestive system functions well and doesn’t create further discomfort.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise regularly throughout the month. Yoga is most effective in regulating the hormones and menstrual cycle. Exercising regularly also helps in maintaining weight which is also important to maintain a regular cycle. Sudden loss or gain in weight directly influences the menstrual cycle.

During menstruation, provide yourself with proper rest. Exerting yourself during menstruation can be harmful to your health. The traditional wisdom of resting during your menstrual cycle holds strong for having a healthy hormonal and uterine balance.

AYURVEDIC HERBS FOR IRREGULAR PERIODS

ASHOKA - Ashoka is the queen of herbs for the female reproductive system and the literal meaning of the word ‘Ashoka’ is the ‘remover of sorrows’. The decoction made from the bark of Ashoka tree is effective in treating irregular periods. To prepare the decoction, 10 grams of the bark of Ashoka needs to be boiled in 2 cups of water until only about a cup remains. Honey or jaggery can be added to decoction to make it easier to drink.
SANDALWOOD - Decoction of sandalwood roots or leaves is also helpful in treating irregular periods. For best results, add the decoction to cow’s milk and drink it daily.
HIBISCUS - Hibiscus flower has a lot of medicinal properties that are beneficial for the reproductive system. One way to consume hibiscus is in the form of Hibiscus tea. The relaxing herbal tea works like an Ayurvedic tonic for irregular periods. Another way to include hibiscus in the diet is to fry two flowers in ghee and take them with warm milk daily.
LICORICE - More popularly known as Mulethi, licorice is effective in regulating the menstrual cycle when consumed with rice wash water. Another way to reap the benefits of licorice is to drink tea made from its roots.
ASAFETIDA - Asafedita (Hing) is well-known for its benefits to the digestive system and hence it’s added to the preparation of most meals in India. However, few people are aware of its benefits to the female reproductive system. By stimulating the production of the female hormone progesterone that increases blood flow to the uterus, it regularizes periods and regulates the menstrual cycle. One great way to include Asafedita in the diet is to add it with buttermilk.

The female body is truly unique and beautiful. If we align it to its natural cycle by following a good lifestyle and diet, we can alleviate ourselves from problems that are caused by hormonal imbalances. Ayurveda provides with solutions that really work at the root level to solve the problem of irregular periods naturally and we have equipped you with some of them to help you on your way towards balance and health. Hope you find these tips helpful for regulating your menstrual cycle.

Balancing Sadhaka Pitta For Emotional Health

According to Ayurveda, the mind and the heart are one and the same. In the Charaka Samhita, an ayurvedic text, it is said, hridaye chetana sthanam, which means, "the seat of consciousness is in the heart."

Our mental and emotional state is constantly influenced by the balance of all of the doshas. Every experience we have, each thought and feeling, has its impact on the doshas and subsequently on our overall health. Hence, our physical health is deeply connected to our emotional well-being.

UNDERSTANDING SADHAKA PITTA

One sub-dosha that stands out when talking about emotional and mental health in the Ayurveda context is Sadhaka Pitta - the caretaker of the heart. It plays an important role in processing life events and emotions.

SADHAKA PITTA’S INFLUENCE ON EMOTIONS

When Sadhaka Pitta is in balance, it promotes self-confidence, healthy desires, motivation and feelings of fulfilment. However, when out of balance, the same causes negative emotions including self criticism, low self esteem, jealousy and mood swings. In extreme cases, it leads to serious mental health problems like depression and bipolar disorders.

BALANCING OUR SADHAKA PITTA

A special type of Agni called Sadhaka Agni is responsible for helping us process our emotions and let go of difficult memories. Just as someone with strong Agni has a good metabolism and is able to digest food more quickly, someone with strong sadhaka agni processes negative emotions quickly. Some people are born with a strong sadhaka agni while others have a weak sadhaka agni or are going through a difficult time. By strengthening our sadhaka agni, we can balance our sadhaka pitta to improve our mental well-being and help our loved ones experience the same.

AYURVEDA ON BALANCING SADHAKA PITTA

One powerful Ayurvedic herb that is most effective in balancing sadhaka pitta is the Rose. It isn’t a coincidence that rose is linked to romance. Despite its cooling and soothing effect, it’s known to enhance the sadhaka agni. In ancient times, there was a tradition of giving jars of rose petal spread to loved ones. It was meant to inspire unconditional love. It is indeed this tradition that has transformed into present-day tradition of gifting roses on special occasions. Rose in any form boosts positive emotions and elevates the experience of happiness and bliss.

HERE’S HOW YOU CAN USE ROSE IN YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to Rose aromatherapy by simply adding Rose Essential Oil to your bath or by opting for an all Natural Rose Soap made from Rose Water and Rose Oil.
Add Rose Essential Oil to your daily Abhyang (self-massage) and treat your partner with a relaxing and therapeutic massage with Rose Oil to reignite and reminisce the feeling of love.
Use Kama Ayurveda’s Kannauj Rose Scented Candle or Rose Essential Oil in diffusers to create the soothing ambiance that enlivens the senses.
After cleansing your face every morning and night, tone with Pure Rose Water. The decadent floral distillation will refresh, hydrate and tone leaving skin scented with the luxuriant scent of pure Roses.
Including Rose Tea in your daily diet or drinking coconut water with Rose Water daily will further help in balancing sadhaka pitta.

Love Is Love – Kama Ayurveda Collaborates With Manish Arora

As we were nearing the much awaited day of love, the Valentine’s Day, we thought of the perfect gift to represent the emotion of love. Our values are rooted in purity, authenticity and kindness. These are the values that we wanted our valentine edition gift box to reflect. For the first time ever, we decided to collaborate with someone who shares similar values in their work to curate our gift box.

Hence, the idea of ‘Love is Love’ box in collaboration with one of the most celebrated and inspiring contemporary designers, Manisha Arora came into being. Manish Arora is one Indian Designer who truly symbolizes and speaks for love making him the perfect match for this collaboration.

So what exactly is this ‘Love is Love’ box? And what makes it so special

Well, first of all, it has one of the most loved and best-selling Kama product - Pure Rose Water re-designed in Manish Arora’s exclusive packaging, his signature pink and gold hearts, to celebrate the season of love. He chose the Pure Rose water, his personal favourite, as it symbolises the purity and authenticity of Kama Ayurveda.

To further celebrate love in its purest form, it has an exquisite brooch created by Manish Arora, celebrating love. Handcrafted with intricate Zardosi embroidery, the unique brooch, comes in either of two colours – a pink or a blue. This brooch comes packaged in a box in the designer’s iconic pink and gold design along with a note from the two brands on the collaboration – Manish Arora X Kama Ayurveda – an insight into the vision and the thought behind love is love.

While this collaboration in itself may seem surprising, looking deeper one can easily see how it perfectly celebrates the non-discriminatory nature of love. As Vivek Sahni quotes, “While the thought of Manish Arora and Kama Ayurveda together might seem like unexpected love, we all know as human beings that Love Is Love — unplanned, unexpected, yet the most beautiful emotion known.”

Manisha Arora says,“I am a big fan of Kama Ayurveda, everything they do personifies authenticity, purity and kindness. For me, that is love.”

If you are looking for a perfect gift for your special someone to convey your purest feelings of love, trust this beautiful box with its thoughtful products and note to do it on your behalf. The box, retails at Rs 1,850 and is on sale until February 24 at Kama Ayurveda’s retail and online stores.

Whispers Of The Rose: Origins Of The Kama Pure Rose Water

Kannauj is not just another town. You could think so, and you would be forgiven. Located 80km from Kanpur, it seems like just another sleepy Uttar Pradesh town. Yet its appearance is deceiving. Kannauj has many secrets.

The town, situated near the Ganga, naturally attracted many to it. The 9th and 10th century was a time of great splendour for the region of Kannauj. Kannauj was the jewel everyone envied. According to many observers of the time, Kannauj went on to achieve ‘unprecedented glory’.

But the good times had to end soon. The envy did lead to Kannauj being razed by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1018. Plundered again in 1194, it was almost completely destroyed.

Kannauj has never returned to its glory days since. But not all the beauty is lost from it. Kannauj is now known as India’s Perfume Capital and carries on the ancient tradition of ittar making.

The ancient deg bhapka method - a way to extract essential oils from the flower petals - is still upheld in the small lanes of Kannauj. If you ever visited Kannauj and visited the Bara Bazaar, you would be engulfed in the heady scents that seem to hang all around.

But even in Kannauj, the city of fragrances, there is one scent that stands out head and shoulders above the others. Here they have found the ‘The soul of the rose’ or ruh ul gulab.

The rose has been a part of India since 5000 BC. The ancient Indians found the rose to be a miraculous flower. According to more modern research the Rose contains over 3000 biochemicals making it the most complex among aromatic oils.

AYURVEDA & ROSE:

In Ayurveda the Rose is one of the rare substances that balances all three doshas.

It balances the Sadhaka Pitta, which happens to be a subdosha of pitta that governs the emotions and their effects on the heart. The rose also balances the Prana Vata. This is the sub dosha associated with the governing of the brain, chest, head, and respiration among other things.

While the rose is cooling in nature, it also enhances the agni in our body. This is what makes the Rose unique. Essential Rose oils are now being researched on by modern scientists to understand how we can use these properties for our well being and in balancing our hormones. Since the rose can balance all three doshas, roses are used extensively in aroma therapy, tonics, water (as rose water), and spices. Roses are also used to cure and cool burns.

Jahangir said that “there is no other scent of equal excellence...it lifts the spirit and refreshes the soul.” Apart from the medicinal uses, the rose is also used to enhance beauty in myriad ways. The rose moisturises and tones the skin, it enhances the glow of the skin.

The rose enhances all seven dhatus, and therefore enhances inner beauty and helps to radiate an inner glow. Over time it will pacify the heat from our blood and keep imbalances from erupting on our skin.

The rose is also able to help certain ailments like amenorrhea, headaches and acne. Other things are sore throat, grief, nervousness among others.

The rose is truly divine. For that very reason we must ensure that only the best of rose be used.

HOW THE KAMA AYURVEDA PURE ROSE WATER IS MADE:

Rose petals are first hand picked before sunrise and sent to the distilleries to be used the very same day. They are then collected in a copper container as per the grade and strength required.

The ‘grade’ refers to the type of flower (there are many varieties) and ‘strength’ refers to the ratio of flower petals to water. The container is then sealed off carefully.

There the petals are upended into large dhegs, or copper pots. A small amount of cold water is added to it.

A fire is then lit below this container which causes the distilled water to convert into steam. This is a crucial process. How hot the container is will define whether the outcome is as desired or whether it will be a waste of good roses.

This steam passes through the rose petals, and the roses slowly release their secret, their essence.

This steam then twirls and passes through copper pipes into another compartment which is cooled continuously by external channels of cold water. This compartment is completely sealed, and the cold water aids the process of condensation of rose water vapours , which are then collected at the bottom in specially created containers.

This rose water is then emptied out and filtered with UV (ultraviolet) rays so that all microscopic bacteria is destroyed and the product is fit for human use.

The maker of the perfume has a complex job at had. If the copper pots get too hot, the rose essence will come out smoky and unusable, too low and you have not extracted enough from the rose. These skills are acquired over generations, where the knowledge has been passed on from father to son as family heirlooms.

The perfumer's job is a complex one. If the dheg overheats, the resulting scent will be too smoky. Judging how long to heat the dheg is also critical. These skills have been passed down from father to son for generations.

For 100 litres of our Rose Water, 50 kilograms of rose petals and 200 litres of distilled water are used.

For a 200ml bottle, approximately 100g of rose petals would be used. A full grown rose normally has about 20 – 25 petals which weighs about seven grams. We use about 13 – 15 Roses ( approx.300 rose petals) to make a 200ml bottle of rose water.

This craft is so esoteric, so hard, that it is slowly dying and fading away. It is also extremely expensive.

1kg of the purest essence of the rose costs 18,000$ or more. 10 grams of the essence sells for more than 650$.

We believe, though, that the moment you experience the true scent of the rose - is priceless.

Kama ensures that it’s Pure Rose Water is made from the finest of Rose essence made from only the best quality roses. Have you tried it yet?

Ayurvedic Herbs For A Blissful Winter

The constant sniffing and coughing around you are heralds of the Winter season. We don’t usually associate winter as being good for our health, but Ayurveda does. According, to the age-old science, the winter season is best to improve well-being.

Bala, which literally means "strength," is the Ayurvedic word for immunity. Ancient Ayurvedic texts indicate that “Bala” is connected to digestion. When digestion is strong and the appetite is good, our health is improved. Whatever weakens digestion, weakens immunity.

Who doesn’t want a strong immunity system? After all, it’s the key to great health. According to Ayurveda, Sahaj, the innate level of immunity, which you are born with is not constant. It gets influenced by the seasons and age.

Yuktikrit bala is the physical and mental strength that depends on diet and exercise. Following an Ayurvedic lifestyle, will strengthen the immunity. We have found some powerful herbs that you include in your daily diet to work their magic!

1. TURMERIC

BENEFITS OF TURMERIC –

Turmeric, or Curcuma longa, is one of the most well-known, widely researched, and commonly used Ayurvedic spices in the world. It is a strong immunity boosting herb which supports the body's healthy response to allergens. A variety of ailments such as common cold, dry skin, joint pains and swellings are treated with it.

HOW TO INCLUDE TURMERIC IN YOUR DIET DURING WINTERS –

Having turmeric milk every day is one of the simplest ways to include turmeric to your diet. Another way is to use turmeric spiced ghee for cooking. Heat ghee till it melts, add turmeric powder and mix it well to prepare spiced ghee. Add it to rice, dal or curry.

2.TULSI

BENEFITS OF TULSI –

Aromatic, delicious, beautiful, and sattvic, Tulsi (Holy Basil) is one of those magical Ayurvedic herbs that can help just about everyone. For this reason, it is referred to as the most sacred plant on earth in the ancient Vedic Puranas. It is especially useful for building respiratory resistance, owing to its specific anti-asthmatic and anti-infective properties.

HOW TO INCLUDE TULSI IN YOUR DIET DURING WINTERS –

Start your day with a refreshing cup of Tulsi green tea or black tea. Adding a few drops of ginger and some honey to it will further improve your health. Eating a few fresh Tulsi leaves daily is an amazing way to boost your immunity. In Ayurveda, a common practice is to chew 3-4 leaves first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

3.GINGER

BENEFITS OF GINGER –

Ginger is used so widely in Ayurveda that it is considered a medicine in itself. It’s specially known for the digestive aid that it provides but it has numerous benefits that range from fighting cold and flu to relieving joint pain. Ginger also helps boost immunity and wards off various kinds of infections.

HOW TO INCLUDE GINGER IN YOUR DIET DURING WINTERS –

There is an Ayurvedic sutra (verse) that says that everyone should eat fresh ginger just before lunch and dinner to enhance digestion. The best way to include ginger in your diet is to dip two or three thin slices of ginger in a little salt and lime juice and have them before a main meal.

4.MULETHI

BENEFITS OF MULETHI –

Mulethi, also known as liquorice, is a heavy, slimy and sweet herb which is used to treat multiple disorders. It’s a revitalising herb that strengthens the body systems and increases immunity. It’s also known as a brain tonic as it boosts the functioning of nervous system and prevents ageing.

HOW TO INCLUDE MULETHI IN YOUR DIET DURING WINTERS –

There are several ways to include Mulethi in your diet. The most common way is to make a tonic by boiling a few sticks of Mulethi in water. You can even add Tulsi and Pudina leaves to it. For relief from a cold, Mulethi powder with honey works as a powerful Ayurvedic tonic.

5.NEEM

BENEFITS ON NEEM –

The health benefits of Margosa leaves (Neem) have been well-known for ages. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic remedies as an antiseptic to fight viruses and bacteria, Neem is also recommended for urinary disorders, diarrhea, fever, skin diseases, burns and inflammatory diseases.

HOW TO INCLUDE NEEM IN YOUR DIET DURING WINTERS –

Apart from chewing neem leaves daily, one can also include neem oil in their daily diet. Neem oil is extremely beneficial in curing from respiratory diseases and provides relief from cough. By including these powerful herbs in your daily diet this winter, you can boast of a healthier you. Don’t let the winter chills bring you down and enjoy every bit of this holiday season with the power of Ayurveda.

By including these powerful herbs in your daily diet this winter, you can boast of a healthier you. Don’t let the winter chills bring you down and enjoy every bit of this holiday season with the power of Ayurveda.

Abhyanga For Complete Skin Care In The Winter

The season of grey skies and chilly winds is upon us. It is the harbinger of all things gloomy – cold and flu, dry skin and fatigue. As the season changes, so does our body. Ayurveda’s foundation lies in the belief that our bodily constitution mirrors each season of the year. Ritucharya, an ancient Ayurveda practice of altering our lifestyle and diet according to the season, outlines this concept. This enables us to build our physical and mental strength to prevent ailments that may happen due to seasonal changes.

The cold weather, causes imbalance in our body and aggravates our Vata dosha, the body's air and space elements, resulting in dry, itching and scaly skin. To balance these effects and protect our skin in the winter season, Ayurveda recommends deep nourishment and regular hydration. For this Abhyanga, self-care with warm oil massage, is considered most effective.

ABHYANGA – THE AYURVEDIC DAILY MASSAGE

Abhyanga, or warm oil massage, is a key Ayurvedic practice, especially in winters, when we need stability and warmth to counteract the Vata-aggravating season. The Sanskrit word Abhyanga means using our own touch to heal and nurture our body.

SIGNIFICANCE OF ABHYANGA

Abhyanga or self-massage is a way to penetrate love and healing (sneha) through the seven dhatus (layers of tissue in the body). Each is successively more concentrated and life-giving. For deep healing to every layer of tissue, the oil should be massaged into the body for 800 matras, which is roughly five minutes. If we consider that the entire body needs this kind of attention, a 15-minute massage is the suggested minimum amount of time.

According to the Charaka Samhita (Vol. 1, V: 88-89) “The body of one who uses oil massage regularly does not become affected much even if subjected to accidental injuries, or strenuous work. By using oil massage daily, a person is endowed with pleasant touch, trimmed body parts and becomes strong, charming and least affected by old age”

ABHYANGA IN THE WINTER SEASON

The preferred oil for Abhyanga in the winter is Sesame Oil, as it is inherently warming. Start your day with a warm oil massage to hydrate the skin, warm the body and increase circulation. Incorporating Abhyanga into your daily routine will alleviate exhaustion and lethargy common in the winter, making you more active.

Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and apply it lightly to the entire body. Wait for 4-5 minutes to allow some of the oil be absorbed by your skin. Then, start massaging the entire body while applying even pressure with the palm and fingers. After you're done, relax for 10-15 minutes and let the oil penetrate deeply into the skin. Dab excess oil off if you like and then follow with a rejuvenating warm bath or shower.

For a more effective massage pay attention to certain areas and techniques. Apply light pressure on sensitive areas like the abdomen. Use a larger amount of oil and spend more time on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Use circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints. While, straight strokes work best for straight areas such as your arms and legs.

OTHER ELEMENTS OF ABHYANGA

Although body massage is most commonly talked about, there are other parts of the body that require equal attention. Ayurveda suggests self-care treatments for parts like the head (Murdha Thaila) and ears (Karna Purana).

MURDHA TAILA

Excessive or imbalanced Vata dosha can cause obstruction in the flow of the food nutrients to the hair cells. This leads to dry scalp, dry hair, split ends, and finally, thin hair or hair loss. Ayurvedic oils made from Bringraj or Shikakai will strengthen the roots of your hair, prevent premature greying and make your hair lustrous.

First, apply oil first to the crown of your head (Adhipati Marma) and work slowly out from there in circular strokes. Spend a couple of minutes massaging your entire scalp. This will help the oil penetrate the roots and relive the mind from any stress.

KARNA PURANA

Ear massage helps relieve stiffness in the jaw or neck, while nourishing the ear skin. In the morning, using a dropper, fill the ear canals with warm Sesame Oil. Use medium pressure to gently massage the ear canal in a circular motion.

OTHER OILS FOR ABHYANGA

Other natural, organic oils good for Abhyanga are Almond Oil and Coconut Oil. They provide an effective conditioning treatment and soothe dry, sensitive skin. Use Kama Ayurveda’s Extra Virgin Coconut Oil and Organic Sweet Almond Oil for an Ayurvedic solution.

Abhyanga is a highly beneficial treatment during winters as oil massage works to reverse the negative effects of an imbalanced Vata dosha. Add healing and calming essential oils to the base oil to further enhance the benefits of Abhyanga. Practice Abhyanga at least thrice in a week to truly nurture and nourish your body.

Getting Wedding Ready – Simple Skincare Rituals For Grooms

The Greeks warriors used a mixture of olive oil and honey on their skin to look fair and young. The Roman men had elaborate bathing rituals in ancient bathhouses. And, the Indian men who practiced Ayurvedic lifestyle firmly believed that the skin shouldn’t be treated with anything that can’t be eaten. So, they enriched their skin with Ayurveda’s prized botanicals.

In the build-up to the wedding, it’s usually the bride that follows elaborate skin care rituals months in advance to prepare herself for the D day. However, skincare isn’t just for women. The groom also shares the same spotlight, after all he must too feel amazing when he stands next to his gorgeous bride.

So let’s tap into centuries-old wisdom and use nature’s gifts to devise a perfect skincare regime for his special day. Here’s a step-by-step skin care regime for men, inspired from the ancient ayurvedic prescriptions, ideal for your wedding day.

CLEANSE - Give your skin a chance to soak in all the goodness of deodar tree extracts while its woody scent soothes your senses. Your skin deserves something rejuvenating after all the dirt and pollution it’s exposed to all day. Count on the ayurvedic ingredients like Aloe Vera, Jojoba Seed, Vetiver Roots and Black Cumin to work their magic to a healthy and glowing skin.

EXFOLIATE - Gently exfoliate with sweet almonds to get rid of the dead skin cells and give way to a more nourished and softer skin. The luxurious treatment with saffron will brighten your skin tone and fight pigmentation to reveal the most radiant you.

TONE - Wedding preparations can be stressful. Relax your senses by toning your skin with the pure distilled water derived from the aromatic roots of vetiver. It will not only soothe you but also cleanse your pores and replenish your skin.

HYDRATE - Keeping yourself and your skin hydrated is essential and the best way to do it is to use natural ingredients like Aloe Vera and Olive Oil. Consider using Kama Ayurveda’s Hydrating Ayurvedic Face Cream for this every day. Infused with Coconut Milk extracts, sesame oil and aloe vera, this light blend is must-use for every to-be groom.

REPAIR - The last thing you want on your wedding day is dull and dry skin. Let wonderful ingredients like Indian Madder, Aloe Vera, Liquorice and Saffron work their way overnight to rejuvenate and revive the skin while preventing its aging.

This simple 5-step regime is perfect for any to-be groom to start before the wedding prep begins. Use a simple, consistent regime to feel fresh and radiant on your D day. Don’t leave this chance to give your skin all the care and pampering that it deserves.

A Guide To Anti-Pollution Skin Care Post Diwali

Diwali festivities are wrapping up and the bridal season is just around the corner. It’s the season for celebrations and parties. But, as much as we love Diwali, there’s no denying that the festival leaves us worrying about our skin. While we happily savour feasts and sweets and marvel at the sight of beautiful lights and diyas, our skin suffers from the effects of air pollution. Post-diwali, it’s common for our skin to feel dull and stripped of moisture.

While this might cause you to worry, you can put your faith in the healing power of nature and Ayurveda to work its way through your skin. There are natural ingredients and herbs like Holy Basil and Neem that are known to reverse the effects of pollution and restore its natural glow.

Ancient ayurvedic rituals for skin healing used these powerful ingredients to replenish the skin. Neem boiled in water was applied to skin to get rid of all impurities stuck inside the skin membranes. Tulsi extract was applied on skin to restore skin’s natural pH balance. In Sanskrit, Tulsi means ‘a plant like no other’. It is one of the best-known antioxidants because of its high polyphenol content helping to fight free radical damage, resulting from pollution.

Another powerful Ayurvedic ingredient is Sandalwood which has been mentioned in ancient Indian texts as far back as the 5th century BC. It has been known for its powerful germicidal and antiseptic properties, while its exotic fragrance is said to have a relaxing effect on the mind. Oil extracted from Sandalwood was applied to the skin for its anti-ageing and rejuvenating effects. Since the ancient times, it has been used to protect the skin from the effects of pollutants, sun-exposure, dehydration and skin sensitivity.

With such amazing gifts of nature, it's possible for us to give our skin a renewed glow post-Diwali. Kama Ayurveda infuses the richness of these natural ingredients to create products that are pure, authentic and kind to your skin. The healing and revitalising power of ancient Ayurvedic rituals is perfectly captured in them and listed below are the few products that are perfect for post-Diwali skin and body care.

NEEM TULSI FACE SCRUB FOR BODY CLEANSING

To get rid of skin dullness from air pollution, exfoliate your face twice a week gently. This will slough away dead cells and dirt for you to get noticeably clean, fresh skin. For this, you can use our Neem and Tulsi Tea Tree Face Scrub which unclogs pores & sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal fresher, toned, revitalised skin.

ORGANIC NEEM OIL FOR A HEAD-TO-TOE TREATMENT

Ayurvedic texts describe Neem as ‘Sarva Roga Nivarini’ (Universal Healer or curer of all Ailments). Kama Ayurveda’s Neem Oil is 100% pure and cold-pressed from organic Neem Seeds from the farms of Tamil Nadu. Its antibacterial action treats skin issues such as acne, rashes, hyper-pigmentation, burns and abrasions while protecting and moisturizing with its high Essential Fatty Acid and Vitamin content.

Start by adding a few drops of neem to your usual hair oil to help get rid of hair dryness. Then, use cotton swab to lightly dab neem oil on your facial skin. Dilute it with coconut oil before applying on sensitive skin areas. Instead of applying directly, you can also add a few drops and take a relaxing facial steam. This will heal your skin from effects of air pollution

MRIDUL SOAP FREE FACE CLEANSER FOR GENTLE FACE CLEANSING

Post Diwali, your face needs deep cleansing that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils and keeps it hydrated. Mridul Soap Free Face Cleanser is perfect for this. With ingredients like Neem and Sandalwood, it’s a non-drying formula and a great alternative to harsh foaming cleansers.

JWALINI FOR RESTORING SKIN TEXTURE

Prescribed in Ayurveda as a treatment for smooth, soft and clear skin, this oil treatment is formulated from natural herbs processed in pure Coconut milk and Sesame oil helps clear up skin irritation and itching. It is an excellent remedy for skin damaged by pollution.

These are just a few of the suggestions from our exhaustive list of skin care products. Because of their ingredients and replenishing properties, they are the kindest and the purest products you can treat your skin with post-Diwali. Your skin has endured a tough time. Now, it's time to treat it to the wellness of Ayurveda.

Reminiscing The Goodness Of Ayurveda This Dhanteras

There’s an interesting story ascribed to the origin of Dhanteras. It’s about a 16-year-old son of King Hima whose horoscope had predicted death by a snake-bite on the fourth night of his marriage. On that night, his newly-wed wife laid out all her ornaments and lots of gold and silver coins in a heap at the entrance of the sleeping chamber and lit lamps all over the place. Then, she narrated stories and sang songs to keep her husband from falling asleep.

The next day, when Yama, the god of Death arrived at the prince's doorstep in the disguise of a serpent, his eyes were dazzled and blinded by the brilliance of the lamps and the jewellery and he could not enter the Prince's chamber. With the cleverness of his new bride, the young prince was saved from the clutches of death, and the day came to be celebrated as Dhanteras.

This folklore marks the association of Dhanteras to wealth. To this day, Dhanteras is widely celebrated as an auspicious occasion to buy gold, silver and steel-ware. It is believed that buying money or metal on this day brings home immense good luck.

While that’s how most people celebrate Dhanteras, did you know that the occasion of Dhanteras is also connected to Ayurveda? Dhanteras, also known as Dhanvantari Jayanti and National Ayurveda Day, is the birthday of God Dhanvantri, the god of Ayurveda.

The origin of Ayurveda is narrated elaborately in the Indian mythologies Bhagavata Purnana and Mahabharata in the famous chapter of Samudra Manthan - the churning of the ocean by Devtas and Asuras. Samudra Manthan had yielded amrita, the nectar for immortality and it was none other than the God Dhanvantri who emerged bearing it. This nectar was a gift of healing for all - the gift of Ayurveda.

God Dhanvantri was the first to impart the wisdom of Ayurveda for the betterment of mankind. He imparted the Vedic knowledge on all levels from diet and herbs to pranayama, mantra and meditation. Dhanwantri is the ideal doctor, representing the wisdom of ayurveda and its practical application. By honouring Dhanvantari and his Ayurvedic learnings, one can open up to Ayurveda’s power of healing.

Dhanteras isn’t just about outer prosperity but also for inner renewal. On Dhanteras, let’s all pray to god Dhanwantri to seek his blessings for sound health for themselves and their family. May Dhanvantari as the universal healer bring well-being and lasting happiness to you!