You Won’T Believe What This Tree Can Do For Your Beauty

In Ayurveda, this tree is believed to be the nurturer of life, beauty and eternal health. In fact, simply sitting under this tree is said to have a calming effect on your senses, while balancing the breathing cycle. Its inner bark has been used for aromatherapy and its strong woody aroma makes it ideal for beauty and wellness like fragrances, bath and body cleansers. Most importantly, the essential oils of this magical tree, nurtures skin and keeps it youthful and radiant. This miraculous tree is the Himalayan Deodar - also known as Devadāru, which means ‘the divine tree’ or ‘the tree of God’. And at Kama Ayurveda, our Himalayan Deodar range is enriched with the healing properties of this exquisite healing tree:

HIMALAYAN DEODAR FACE CLEANSER FOR MEN

 For a crispy morning, choose our Himalayan Deodar Face Cleanser. It is an exotic mix of soothing, toning and rejuvenating ingredients like pure essential oil of Himalayan Deodar, Aloe Vera and Black Cumin Seeds. This face cleanser leaves your skin pampered and well moisturised. The naturally antiseptic properties of Himalayan Deodar also protect your skin from allergies and make it shave-happy.

HIMALAYAN DEODAR BODY CLEANSER

 Step out, all refreshed with our Himalayan Deodar Body Cleanser. This is a chemical free body cleanser that exfoliates gently while retaining the natural oils of the skin. Lemon, Rose extracts and natural-origin Glycerin revive and refresh the body. Pure Essential Oils of Himalayan Deodar add that fresh touch of mountain-bliss. 

HIMALAYAN DEODAR SOAP FOR MEN

Feel pampered with our hydrating Himalayan Deodar Conditioner. This is a luxuriant hair-care product is free from hair damaging chemicals and is extremely soft on your mane. Organic and hair-growth promoting ingredients like Indian Gooseberry, Hibiscus Extracts & Aloe Vera deeply condition and repair hair. Pure Essential Oil of Himalayan Deodar help strengthen hair and make it visibly thicker, smooth and lustrous. 

HIMALAYAN DEODAR BODY MOISTURISER

For the sensation of truly renewed skin, our Himalayan Deodar Body Moisturiser has to be on the top of your beauty regimen. An all-natural product that hydrates the skin deeply, evens texture and brightens the complexion, it is great for rough and dehydrated skin. Blended with Beetroot extracts & Aloe Vera as well pure essential oil of Himalayan Deodar, it nourishes and pampers the skin, leaving it miraculously soft and even-toned.

While the more celebrated beauty ingredients like Rose, Saffron, Sandalwood, Jasmine and so on have somewhat eclipsed Himalayan Deodar in our beauty ingredient universe, it remains one of Ayurveda’s best kept secrets. Revered in Ayurvedic texts as a balancer of the body doshas, many other ancient texts also chronicle its value as a beauty enhancer for the youthful and a giver of strength for the mature. Choose a Himalayan Deodar product from our range and introduce this divine ingredient into your beauty regimen to discover its many wonders.

6 Superfoods For Gorgeous Skin

The secrets to radiantly beautiful skin seem to be hidden in some of the most deceptive ingredients in our homes that are now known to be superfoods. Sprouts, nuts and legumes are now recognized as pods of eternal radiance and many of our everyday spices are worshipped for their age reversing benefits. Little surprise then, that Ayurveda has always emphasised on the medicinal properties of food and its harmonious effects on our spiritual and physical existence. Let’s discover these precious & traditional beauty secrets from the lap of nature that are sitting pretty on our kitchen shelves. 

CITRUS FRUITS

These are the vitamin C boosters we all need. They enhance immunity and flush toxins from our body as well as help soothe inflammation, sun burns and dark spots. Citrus fruits like Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons, Limes and Tangerines fight pigmentation and promote even skin-tone. They naturally hydrate the skin, fight dryness and dullness. If there is a Skin-Food that should top your snack counter, it has to be this juicy wonder from this family of fruits.

TURMERIC

If we apply this on our skin, it’s bound to bloom. And adding it to our food can reverse the ageing of our skin and leave it glowing like eternal Sunshine. Why? Turmeric produces Curcumin, an antioxidant that promotes blood circulation. It fights wrinkles, stimulates skin elasticity and smoothens out fine lines. Widely used in Indian food, Turmeric is now known as the golden miracle in the west too and Turmeric shakes are much in vogue. In fact cold pressed Turmeric juice added to cashew or coconut milk is now served as ‘Golden Milk’ or Turmeric Latte in many cafes across the world and enjoys a serious cult following. 
HONEY

Hand picked by bees from the most delicate of flowers, Honey is a super Skin-Food. Adding Honey to our meal bowls can help fight acne as it is naturally antibacterial. Its moisturising properties keep our skin well hydrated and soft. And it is a rich source of antioxidants which helps fight wrinkles, spots, dull skin and uneven skin-tone. Naturally, Honey is fast replacing sugar in DIY face masks and as well as our favourite dishes.

WALNUTS

This is a happiness-inducing stress buster of a nut. Walnuts are literally overflowing with mood enhancing Vitamin B and Vitamin E. These vitamins come together with Omega-3 to regenerate and rejuvenate our skin. Also, being happy delays skin-ageing, and leaves our skin bright and glimmering. 

CINNAMON

Cinnamon detoxifies the body from within and puts the glow back on our face. This is why since centuries, Cinnamon is used in our food to stimulate blood circulation and purification. It has antifungal, antibacterial properties that keep acne and other skin allergies at bay. And it is considered to be a powerful antioxidant that is credited with bringing the nutrients directly to the skin, enhancing our complexion and radiance. Adding this sweet fragrant spice to our everyday diet can also make for an effortless beauty regimen.  

BASIL

This leafy wonder is a Skin food recommended especially by all Ayurvedic practitioners. A cup of Basil or Tulsi tea early in the morning, is a beauty regimen that adds freshness to the skin. Packed with vitamins and minerals, Basil enhances our complexion and spreads a healthy and even glow. With its herbaceous green flavour and aroma as well as its purifying properties, if there is a lesser known Skin-Food that deserves adulation in the beauty world, it is Basil. 

The quest for flawless and beautiful skin often lead us back into the lap of Ayurveda and righty so. While skin superfoods may be in vogue now, Ayurveda has always taught us about the importance of what we eat and how it reflects on our external appearance. And now years of modern research and practice have proved that eating right and using the purest of natural ingredients are quintessential to beauty and health. Adding a good dose of these superfoods into your everyday routine could be the difference between tired, listless skin and a clear and glowing complexion.

Do Your Kids Need Sun Care?

The answer is yes - Ultraviolet rays can’t differentiate between an adult and a child. Children’s skin especially is still developing and is extra sensitive to the immediate environment. Given their active outdoor regime, protection from the sun is a necessity and not a luxury. Hence it is a good idea to be well covered and soundly protected from the harsh Sun rays, irrespective of one’s age group. 

Kids are also naturally susceptible to overexposure to the sun because of various activities like travelling to and fro from the school, playtime in the sun, living inside glass buildings and so on. And each of these activities is vital for our kid’s growth and well-being. It’s important to remember that a basic Kid Sun Care should protect the kid from harmful effects of Ultraviolet rays both indoors and outdoors. 

We can add these simple Sun Care rituals to add Sunshine to their life without its side-effects.

1.CHOOSING A SAFE AND NATURAL SUNSCREEN

Keeping your child's skin covered is the first step towards sun protection. We need to add a good hat or cap and ensure that they are well hydrated through the day. It's important to introduce their skin to a mineral-enriched sunscreen that is gentle on it, but blocks the sun effectively. Look for minerals like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide to identify mineral sunscreens and don't be afraid of the slight white cast these natural Sunscreens may leave at white application. And like all things we use for the first time, a patch test is a good idea with any Sunscreen we choose for our young ones.

2. APPLYING THE SUNSCREEN CORRECTLY

For kids, SPF 21 Sunscreen is great for Indian Urban Lifestyle. But there are some important ‘How to Apply’ instructions we need to follow diligently. Like, most Sunscreens need to be applied minimum 20-30 minutes before stepping out in direct sun. Some are ready to go. But what’s common amongst all sun protection products is the fact that they need to be applied every 2 hours. Yes on kids too, and even in the water.

3. INCULCATING DAILY SUN PROTECTION AS A GOOD HABIT

Sun Protection is as vital as good hygiene or healthy eating habits. We need to educate our kids about making Sun Care a daily self-care ritual. They need to understand how being in the sun is important for the bones yet over exposure is damaging for the human body. Applying Sunscreen regularly ourselves, is the biggest motivating factor for the young ones. After all we all know what great imitators they are.

4. MAKING THEM AWARE ABOUT SIGNIFICANCE OF SUN CARE, INDOORS TOO

We often underestimate the effects of Sun rays when we are travelling or are indoors. The fact is that glass does not block out Ultraviolet rays and the kids need to understand that. Regular use of Sunscreen even when at home is a great way to reiterate the same for the kids. 

Kids on an average spend enough time in the Sun for ample production of Vitamin D. For the better part of the day they need Sunscreen so their soft skin does not bear the brunt of harsh and fierce Sun rays. A tan is not a symbol of great and active lifestyle, it is the first sign of skin damage and burn. And the good news is that we can protect our kids with these simple Sun Care rituals. So let them rise and shine, just don’t forget the Sunscreen.

5 Sunscreen Myths Busted!

To be or not to be in the sun, is a question that is literally making the earth go around. There are enough and more studies on how exposure to Sun is good for the bones and great for the hair and skin. And then there are studies that hint at irreversible damage caused by overexposure to the Sun. At Kama Ayurveda, we believe a bit of both hold true and a good Sunscreen is a perfect solution for all. Like our chemical-free, mineral based Sunscreen with Natural Sun Protection of SPF 21, a safe and effective formulation that blocks and prevents Sun damage.

1) SUNSCREEN IS FOR SUMMERS

Truth is we need a Sunscreen in every season and both indoors and outdoors. Remember clouds or no clouds, the Ultraviolet rays are all around us. And yes, they even penetrate through the windows. Which means that if we are travelling for long stretches or the workplace is next to the window, we need Sun protection. An effective Sunscreen that reflects Ultraviolet rays back, is our only knight in shining armour here.

2) THE HIGHER THE SPF, THE BETTER THE SUNSCREEN

Sadly this myth can cause permanent damage on our skin, including patches and quick ageing. The truth is that for Indian urban lifestyles SPF 15-20 is all we need, but it requires reapplication every 2 hours in the sun. And its vital to know that even an SPF 50 requires to be reapplied, generously. Yes, higher the SPF, higher the protection is nothing more than a myth.

3) WATERPROOF SUNSCREEN

The term ‘waterproof’ can mislead one to spend an entire day sunbathing or in the pool. The fact remains that any Sunscreen product needs to be reapplied if one swims for a long stretch or sweats profusely. At best, a Sunscreen can be water-resistant which means it won’t get washed off immediately. But once we towel-dry the body, fresh protection from the Ultraviolet rays is needed. So choosing a safe yet efficient Sunscreen, and reapplying at regular intervals is a must for good sun protection.

4) SUNSCREENS MAKE YOU VITAMIN D DEFICIENT

The fact is that 15 minutes in the sunshine is all a body needs for making ample Vitamin D. For the rest of the time one needs a good and effective sun block to protect the skin from dehydration and sunburns. Choosing a light and non greasy one that does not attract any dirt or impurities, is equally important.

5) BAD SUNSCREENS LEAVE A WHITE CAST

Well if a sunscreen leaves a white cast on the skin when applied, one should hold on to it forever. Usually this means that it is a natural, mineral enriched Sunscreen that is totally effective. Don’t let the white cast stop you from reaching out for the best protection from damaging rays, and it usually dissipates very quickly too. Remember to check for a natural, mineral formulation and keep in mind that the white cast indicates a protective layer on the skin that is hard to penetrate. However a generous amount of Sunscreen should be applied on the face, hands and other body parts exposed to the sun. Even under a sun-umbrella.

A healthy skin and care regime starts with the basics. A natural cleanser, a moisturiser, a toner, lip balm and a good Sunscreen. But there are a thousand Sunscreens on the shelves today and a million of myths around their use. It is pertinent to know which Sunscreen to use. Even more important is to be informed and aware of how to make Sunscreens work for the skin. Choosing a natural Sunscreen that is gentle on the skin but effective against Ultraviolet rays is most important. So pick the right Sunscreen, use it right and your skin will say a sunny thank you for it.

Suncare Habits That Lead To Great Skin

Sunscreen is the backbone of skincare. There’s no point investing in beautiful face cream or serum, if you don’t protect your skin from the sun. And if you have this first step as part of your daily regimen, there are many other things that you can do to boost your beauty ritual and the quality of your complexion.

DON'T FORGET TO REAPPLY SUNSCREEN

No matter what you SPF may be, you have reapply it every two hours. Whether your sunscreen is natural or chemical, this rule applies to all. Your sun product loses its efficacy in a couple of hours and you need to top up if you want optimum protection. To make it easier carry a small bottle of rose water mist and spritz it all over your face. Tissue off and then reapply sunscreen for application that feels super fresh.

COVER ALL THE BEAUTY BLIND SPOTS


You neck, décolletage and hands always are the first to shown signs of sun damage. This is because we don’t protect them as we do our face. So apply moisturiser and sunscreen all over your face, neck and décolletage. And regularly apply hand cream.

SOOTHE YOUR SKIN

If you have overexposed to the sun and feel like your skin is burning, you need to soothe it immediately. During summer, keep our Organic Aloe Vera Juice in the refrigerator at all times. Spray it on to sunburns to soothe. When your skin feels a bit calmer, apply the Jwalini Retexturising Skin Treatment Oil to reduce burns, marks and irritations.

REMOVE YOUR TAN



Once you have calmed your sunburn completely, then use the Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment to remove unwanted tan and clarify your complexion.

TREAT YOUR SKIN AT NIGHT


Your skin regenerates itself naturally when you sleep. So night time is ideal for anti ageing treatments. Apply your night cream and face oil during this time. If you choose just one product, make it the Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid Ayurvedic Night Serum to illuminate your complexion. Mist your face well with rose water first and then pat on a few drop of this oil. The rose water will provide a good base for the oil to spread, and will also help it get absorbed better.

ADD AN AT-HOME FACIAL OVER THE WEEKEND

Beauty experts all over the world are indulging in a #SundayFacial. Sunday is the best day because it prep you up for the entire week. Exfoliate your face with the Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub to get rid of dead skin. If your skin is dry, then give yourself a face massage with one of our oils using round upwards-and-outwards strokes. You can use the sesame, almond or coconut oils for this massage. Then, wipe the oil with a damp, hot towel and slather on a face mask. Try the Lavanya Plant Mask, which detoxifies and clarifies all skin types. Lastly, wash the mask and pat on your favorite moisturiser to wrap up the facial.

Because Your Kids Deserve Only The Purest

Once upon a time, the rains smelled of romance and summers of a carefree holiday. However with the onset of Motherhood every season took on a different meaning for me. Summers meant umbrellas, and strange smelling de-tan remedies. Monsoons turned into house arrest for my twins with burning neem leaves, citronella plants and other mosquito-repellant ideas. Winters turned me into a moisture-dispensing machine, chasing the kids everywhere.

I wanted to do my best to keep them protected and well cared for in the most natural way. If I had the knowledge and the means to collect nature’s miraculous ingredients for my kids’ well-being, I would have. Thankfully I found Kama Ayurveda. Their products are gentle on the child’s skin and the finest ingredients keep their delicate skin well protected through sun and sands.

Here are the three Kama Ayurveda Products I absolutely recommend for kids

NIRAV NATURAL BABY SOAP


I wanted to keep soap, off my twins’ bathing ritual. After all I wanted to keep them clean and fresh but also retain the natural oils of their skin. As a Mother, none of the soaps with the overwhelming fragrance impressed me anyway. And then my Yoga instructor gifted us a mom and baby gift-pack from Kama Ayurveda.

Kama’s handmade baby soap Nirav, came highly recommended by her. Its soft and creamy texture with no fragrance are a part of our happy bath-times, ever since. This 100% natural soap made of pure Ashwangandha, Turmeric, Nutgrass and Dill, gently cleanses and leaves baby’s skin soft and healthy. And the Essential Oils of Coconut & Castor nurture and protect like mother’s love.

NATURAL SUN PROTECTION

As a Mother I want my kids to run in open meadows, climb trees, bicycle along meandering streams and I won’t let anyone stop them. Not even the harsh Sun. So I chose the new Kama Natural Sun Protection, which gives totally chemical-free sun protection.

It’s a mineral enriched sunscreen that bans the tan and not outdoor playing for the kids. Its light, hydrating and healing ingredients like Olive oil, Glycerine, Shea Butter, Ginger and Lime make a protective layer on the skin and reflect the sun rays back. So throw away the umbrellas and be worry free while your kids play in the sun.

NATURAL INSECT DETERRENT SPRAY


If there is anything as annoying as a mosquito hovering around your kids, it is the chemical and over-bearing smell of mosquito-repellant creams. No, you cannot be omnipresent holding neem leaves, around your kids. So I suggest you pick Kama Ayurveda’s Insect Repellant as a natural bodyguard. It is infused with essential oils of Lemongrass, Geranium, Citronella, Neem and more to repel insects and not a sensitive nose. It is my travel companion on holidays whether in the forest, hills or beaches. And it’s what keeps my kids happy being outdoors and playing with friends.

Everything needs to pass the test of a Mother, before it touches her kids. So I choose to give my Kids the best from their natural and pure surroundings. The freshness of the clean mountain air on holidays. Organically grown healthy food on their plates. And the finest beauty and health traditions from the ancient India, gift wrapped inside every Kama Ayurveda product.

Why You Need To Go Natural

People have a love/hate relationship with sunscreen. We love it because sun protection is the first line of treatment against wrinkles, open pores, pigmentation, basically all signs of ageing. But we hate it because of the tacky texture and the huge number of chemicals in it. That said, you can apply the most expensive serums and night creams but if you're not militant about sun protection then you will undo your hard work.

Recently though sunscreens have come under the scanner. Most of them use chemicals such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, homosalate and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor to guard the skin. Unfortunately a lot of these chemicals turn into hormone disrupters when they get absorbed by the skin. But that’s not all. Oxybenzone is banned in many countries, not just because it could be carcinogenic, but also because it is damaging to the environment. It is known to stunt the growth of baby corals in our oceans (among other things). Avobenzene (the other commonly used chemical guard) is broken down easily by the sunlight, reducing it’s skin protecting potential. So either way, chemical sunscreens are potentially harmful for health and, in many cases, do not provide adequate protection.

So, what’s the good news?

You can protect your skin without damaging your health or the environment. The new sunscreens are all natural and there are many reasons why you should adopt these new complexion protectors. The active ingredients are usually zinc or titanium dioxide, which provide a physical barrier on the skin. So this means that unlike chemical sunscreens, where you have to wait 20 minutes before going out, these are active as soon as you apply them.

What’s more, these minerals are known to be therapeutic for the skin (especially for people who are prone to redness or rosacea) as they help calm the complexion. This means that even the most sensitive skins will benefit from a mineral sunscreen. You can almost think of its as a day-long face mask. When you wash it off, you will find that your skin looks more rested. You can also use this sunscreen around the eyes and on babies too. In fact the healing properties of zinc oxide make it a popular choice to treat diaper rashes, chapped skin, and minor burns.

While the minerals in some natural sunscreens are responsible for that white tint on the skin, newer formulations get absorbed quickly so the white pallor disappears fairly soon. The new generation of natural sunscreens are also packed with antioxidants, botanicals and butters, which make them a complete anti-ageing solution.

Like in all aspects of life, in the battle between chemical and natural, nature always has the right answer.

Hot Now: Kama Brings You The First All-Natural Sunscreen

Make sun protection a priority. It is the first line of defence against signs of ageing including fine lines, wrinkles, open pores and pigmentation. In fact, sun protection is so important that skin specialists are often quoted as saying that if there’s one essential they would suggest for better skin, it would be the regular use of sunscreen.

However sunscreens (or chemical sunscreens to be specific) have got a bad rap in recent times because the chemicals in them are known to be hormone disrupters. Plus, they're also harmful to the environment. Therefore, an all-natural sunscreen is the need of the hour, so that you can preserve your skin without harming your health. However, a lot of people think that natural SPF would cast a white pallor, or be very drying on the skin because of the high mineral content in the product. But, Kama Ayurveda has kept these concerns in mind to ensure that the product you use is superior in terms of both texture, finish and protection.

Firstly, they have used known sun protectors such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which work as physical barriers against the harsh Indian sun. Not only do these minerals protect, but they also work to soothe your complexion making natural sunscreens ideal for super sensitive skin and children.

Then, to ensure that the sunscreen makes your skin feel supple, the formulation combines these minerals with triglycerides and water so that you get a double dose of lipids and moisture. While you may get a hint of white during application, it quickly disappears because of the high moisture content.

Thirdly, the product is also boosted with nutmeg, ginger and lime essential oils. Nutmeg is known to calm inflammation on the skin, so if you’re prone to redness and spots then this oil will help your complexion become calmer. In Ayurveda, ginger is one of the most powerful adaptogens (that helps your body cope with stress) and also contains a ton of antioxidants. So ginger essential oil helps protect your skin from environmental damage. Lime is anti bacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, astringent - all qualities that help clear out your complexion.

Fourthly, Kama Ayurveda’s Natural Sun Protection contains only SPF 21, which actually is a good thing.

The biggest misconception in sun care is that higher SPF will provide you ultra-high levels of protection. But, this could not be further from the truth. The difference in protection between SPF 30 and 50 is only about 2%. However the amount of chemicals used to get it to an SPF 50 are tenfold. Therefore it is better to stick to a lower SPF and reapply your sunscreen, than to go for a higher number, which will only give you 2% more protection but a ton of toxic chemicals. And with that in mind, Kama Ayurveda has employed SPF 21, which is ideal for everyday city usage.

Lastly, and most importantly, the new Natural Sun Protection does not contain parabens, pthalates or sulphates, making it the truly natural, green and differentiated sun protection in the market.


3 Thoughtful Gifts For The Perfect Dad

Every Father was once a man busy chasing his dreams. But one day he learned that balancing a newborn’s head needed more care than fixing balance sheets. Changing the baby's diaper became more important than finding a new job. Reading to a toddler became more fruitful than training the brightest interns. And raising kids was the more gratifying job than creating an empire. This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate his journey to Fatherhood. Pamper your Dad with your time and make it memorable with Father’s Day specials from Kama Ayurveda.

GIFT A SHAVING REGIME

Your Father is the quintessential tough guy, who makes looking good so effortless. He likes to begin his day with a squeaky clean feeling with a dash of fragrant charm. Gift him a Kama Shaving Regime to keep his skin soft, fresh and totally protected.

SHAVING FOAM:

A blend of rare botanicals, scented with the fragrance of pure Sandalwood and Mint. This product pampers and leaves a lingering sensation of freshness on the skin.

PURE VETIVER WATER:




An After Shave Mist is always a great gift. This is a 100% natural astringent that fights any negative effect of dirt, impurities or worries on your skin.

PRESENT A HAIR CARE REGIME

The one thing that always looks good on your Father, is your loving company. On all other occasions he holds his head high and keeps his smile warm. That he always wears a crown of compliments is no secret. We say, add lustre and health to his crowning glory with our Hair Care Regime.

BRINGADI INTENSIVE HAIR TREATMENT:

Rich Oils and scalp stimulating herbs create an unmatchable meditative and healing experience. The natural goodness of pure Sesame Oil, Milk, Gooseberry ensures lustrous hair growth. Bringadialso helps destress and its earthy fragrance promises a rejuvenating & refreshing sleep.

HIMALAYAN DEODAR HAIR CLEANSER:


The miraculous essential oils of Deodar and Hibiscus, gently clean the hair while retaining the natural oils. This product rehydrates and repairs naturally, without a trace of chemicals.

HIMALAYAN DEODAR HAIR CONDITIONER:

This luxurious hair nourisher replenishes the natural moisture of the hair. Every wash with this makes the hair stronger, softer and compliment-worthy.

PAMPER WITH A SKIN REGIME

Your Father's face lights up at the very mention of your name. The frowns disappear and so do the last traces of any worldly worries. Keep his eternal sunshine intact with our Skin Regime.

HIMALAYAN ALMOND DEEP CLEANSING FACE SCRUB:


With precious Kashmir Saffron & Almond that reduces pigmentation, fights sun-tan and brightens the complexion, this scrub deserves to be an essential skin-care regimen.

PURE VETIVER WATER:

A natural toner with an earthy yet invigorating aroma, this is a natural astringent that tightens pores, cools and refreshes the skin. This also preps the skin for a moisturiser or cream allowing it to sink into skin effortlessly.

SKIN BRIGHTENING NIGHT CREAM FOR MEN:

The finest of Kashmir Saffron, exotic Indian Madder & healing Aloe Vera come together in this miraculous night cream to fight ageing, while leaving the skin spotless. This is the perfect all-round night treatment for naturally healthy skin.

Baba, Patro, Pai, Appa or Daddy, there are a thousand ways to address our fathers with love. And there are more than a million reasons to love them. Like how between the giggles and deadline pressures they chose your happiness. How they discovered they could roar like a lion and laugh like the clown in your storybooks. And how becoming a father, the most rejuvenating experience. From all of us here at Kama Ayurveda, here's wishing eternal beauty and strength for this beautiful bond.
Happy Father's Day!

Make Your Father’S Day Exquisitely Beautiful!

Fathers are beautiful. When they nurse our bruised egos and show us the greatness in failure. When they fuel our yearning for perfection and help us spring back, if we fall short. When they teach us to laugh and laugh the loudest at ourselves. Fathers are beautiful, because they are the strength in our love.
This Father’s Day, shower some love on your perfect Dad with Kama Ayurveda’s pure and exclusive products especially curated for Men. We have something for every kind of Dad. Choose from the Pure Vetiver Water for the Calm Dad and the Kama Shaving Foam for the Effortless Father. And conjure up an entire basket, if you think your Father is a little bit of all the awesomeness.

THE ALWAYS-ON-THE-GO-DAD WILL MAKE TIME FOR HIMALAYAN ALMOND FACE SCRUB:



Fathers are always walking a fine line of being your confidante and a strict disciplinarian. Add to that a demanding career that takes them places, literally. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could give your high-flier Dad a refreshing experience that could take some years off his face? We recommend our Himalayan Almond Face Scrub. It contains precious Kashmir Saffron & Sweet Almonds that reduce pigmentation, fight sun-tan and brighten the complexion. This scrub deserves to be on your dad’s quick but essential skin-care regimen.

THE SPORTY DAD IS SURE TO PICK-UP THE HIMALAYAN DEODAR FACE CLEANSER:

He believes in more than the race to the corner-office. He introduced you to a wholesome life, where you tasted camping, fishing, jogging and even one-leg hopping. He is the sporty dad, who respects his body and encourages you to do the same. Our Himalayan Deodar Face Cleanser is a perfect pick for someone as active and aware. This hydrating daily cleanser lifts away dirt, sweat and pollutants for clean, fresh and supple skin. Invigorating Himalayan Deodar essential oil combined with Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil, Vetiver, Black Cumin and Lavender perfectly cleans, tones and lightly hydrates dull skin. Ideal for use after an intense workout or a round of his favourite sport, this all-rounder deserves a spot in your Dad's skin-pampering team.

THE LOVING DAD DESERVES THE HIMALAYAN DEODAR BODY MOISTURISER:

Fathers may seem to leave your finger and urge you to walk, when you need their support the most. But they are always watching your back. For somebody so caring, our Himalayan Deodar Body Moisturiser is the perfect gift. The natural ingredients like Aloe Vera hydrate the skin from within. The pure essential oils of Himalayan Deodar balance his skin and leave a rich and enviable glow, just like warmth of his love.

THE EFFORTLESS DAD DESERVES THE SHAVING FOAM:

He never tries hard or may be it is just the effortless charm he's always had. He is suave, well read and a man of fine choices. He introduces you to rare fragrances and exquisite food. And you know that only the most luxuriant grooming products will meet his approval. Our Shaving Foam is a blend of rare botanicals, scented with the fragrance of pure Sandalwood and Mint. This product pampers the skin and leaves a lingering fresh fragrance behind - well suited to the stylish Dad who seems to weave a spell without trying too hard.

THE CALM DAD WILL FIND HIS MATCH IN THE PURE VETIVER WATER:


He is the wall between you and the storm and so you seldom experience any rough weather in your life. He never brings his work home or his stress of looming deadlines. For this Daddy cool, our Vetiver Water - a great After Shave Mist - makes for a wonderful gift. It is a natural astringent that fights any negative effect of dirt, impurities or worries on the skin. It is understated in its elegance, earthy and balanced - just like your unflappable Dad.

THE HARD-WORKING DAD WILL THANK YOU FOR THE SKIN BRIGHTENING NIGHT CREAM:


Holidays, breaks, off-time are not words you are likely to find in his dictionary. He settles for nothing but better than the best for you. And so we recommend only the most outstanding experience for him - our Skin Brightening Night cream for Men. The finest of Kashmir Saffron, exotic Indian Madder & healing Aloe Vera come together in this miraculous night cream to fight ageing, dullness and fatigue for well rested, fresh skin in the morning. Gift this hard worker to your Dad, so he has the skin care he truly deserves.

FOR THE TRADITIONAL DAD CHOOSE THE HIMALAYAN DEODAR SOAP:


He is the man who holds the door for you mother, even today. He likes to dress sharp and talk politely. He leads by example and expects you to follow. And even though he is awkward with hugs and back-slaps, you can never doubt his unconditional love. Such a special dad should be treated to the our natural handmade Himalayan Deodar Soap. Enriched with the essential oil of Himalayan Deodar, this soap refreshes and balances without negating the natural moisture of the skin. The unique woody, masculine fragrance is a natural fit for the bath regime for your classic Dad. Sporty, flawless or hardworking, whatever his personality may be, the truth is that it is not easy being a Father today. The new-age Father is not your quintessential go to work and command respect dad anymore. He is a hands-on dad, who loves to brew his own coffee and has a point of view on all things - even those tasks which till yesterday were considering a mother’s-only job. And being beautifully strong just comes naturally to this almost perfect Papa. He surely deserves nothing less than the Happiest Father’s Day ever.

Royal Beauty Secrets For The Queen In You

Legend goes that The Queen of Kings as Cleopatra was famously called, enchanted the denizens of city of Tarsus, much before they actually laid their eyes on her. Her ardour for all things beautiful resulted in her travelling up the river Cydnus in a barge, decorated and scented with perfumes and essential oils like Patchouli and Jasmine. The beauty who introduced the world to its first Spa or Officina Aromatoria - she built the first spa off the shores of Dead sea in Egypt - filled the air with the feeling of love & beauty and made every one surrender to her charms. From the treasures of such beautiful Queens we bring you timeless Royal Beauty Secrets.

PRINCESS OF TRAVANCORE

Princess of Travancore indulged in a secretive hair bathing ritual with herbal waters and paste made of exotic leaf extracts. In a ritual befitting women of grandeur, a deep red concoction was made by brewing Henna with 40 other kinds of tree barks and applied on the hair strand to add lustre and body. They then spread their tresses over a ‘Karmandi’, an iron pot filled with burning coal. Camphor or other fragrant herbs and spices were burnt in the coal to lock in the moisture at the hair-ends. It also left a lingering fragrance in the tresses.

How to use Henna like a Queen: Pure Henna imparts rich color and shine apart from having antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Using a Henna hair pack regularly boosts hair growth, increases volume and even fights hair loss. Its meditative, earthy fragrance is also said to ward off negative energies and stress. Use this timeless beauty ingredient in your hair regime –

MUGHAL EMPRESS NOORJAHAN

Mughal empress Noorjahan, an exquisite beauty was enthralled by all that nature had to offer. She was famous for her luxurious baths with rose petals, that were added to her bath tub hours in advance. And during one of these skin-pampering rituals she discovered rose oil, as the fragrant oily layer on the surface of the water. Gulab itar, perfume or essential oils were then curated and were used as spray for cooling and refreshing the queen’s skin throughout the day. Rooh gulab thus became synonymous with the Noorjahan.

How to use Rose like a Queen:Rose water is a natural coolant that rehydrates and restores the PH Balance of skin. Using rose extract regularly will naturally moisturise your lips and heal dry and chapped skin too. During summers, washing you face with Rose water before bedtime is an excellent cleansing and toning ritual. Incorporate this exquisite beauty secret into your daily regime .

QUEEN NEFERTITI

Queen Nefertiti is considered as the epitome of grace and splendour. The mystery of whether she was an Egyptian or came from Asia is still unsolved. But many credit The Black Cumin Oil for her jewel-like aura and shine. Black Cumin is considered a rich source of anti-ageing properties and was favoured by the Queen as a mask to boost supple skin, lustrous hair and enviable nails.

How to use Black Cumin like a Queen: Black Cumin seeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids and hence they rehydrate your skin and keep wrinkles away. For a beautiful glowing skin, use this with honey or curd.

HELEN OF TROY

Helen of Troy was a rare beauty over whom the war of Trojan was fought. So what was her beauty secret? Pearls, diamonds, gold? Surprisingly it is the Apple Cider Vinegar that made her so illusive. It’s said as part of her beauty regimen, Helen washed her face with Apple vinegar that made her skin unbelievably supple, gleaming and left it well nourished.

How to use Apple Cider Vinegar like a Queen: Add vinegar to your bath tub for a relaxing bath and to restore your bod’s PH balance. A hair rinse with vinegar leaves your scalp clean and hair bouncy. And regular application on your skin soothes burns, heals sun tan and leaves it visibly younger.

Beauty has always empowered women to rewrite the story of their lives. Beauty is strength. Beauty is confidence. Beauty is powerful. Today, we might not have the luxury of an entourage and beauty ingredients more precious than rare pearls, but we have the knowledge. And these Royal Beauty Secrets are all yours, to pamper the Queen, in you.

The Intriguing Peepal Tree For Beauty

“I AM ASHWATTHA AMONG ALL TREES….”

- ‘BALLAD DIVINE: BHAGAVAD GITA’, BY DEV BHATTACHARYA

Lord Krishna likens himself as Ashwattha; (Sanskrit) or the Peepal (Pipal) tree, in the Bhagavad Gita. This tree is a symbol of the Universe’s never-ending expanse – indeed, it is revered across the Indian subcontinent, particularly amongst the Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, as the Tree of Life.

The Peepal is also known as the Sacred Fig, and its botanical name is Ficus religiosa. 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).

SCIENCE BEHIND THE SUPERSTITION

The Peepal is a true ‘Tree of Life’ even in the scientific sense. It releases oxygen at night. It protects the ozone layer, releasing maximum concentration of ozone during sunshine. When woman circle the Peepal, the exercise makes their lungs work more, increasing the intake of this ozone release. It seems then, that there is a scientific foundation to the superstitious idea of women with fertility problems, circumambulating the Peepal as a remedy!

MYTHOLOGICAL ALLURE OF PEEPAL

It is believed to be the first depicted tree in India, found inscribed on ancient Mohenjodaro seals. According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Vishnu the Preserver (of whom Lord Krishna was a reincarnation), was born, and resided under the Peepal. The Peepal represents the trinity of Bhrama, Vishnu, and Shiva, the roots being Bhrama, the trunk, Vishnu, and the leaves, Shiva. It is under the Bodhi (Sacred Fig) that the Buddha attained Enlightenment.

TWIN FLAMES

The Banyan, or Vata (Sanskrit), and Peepal varieties 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
Uterine strengthening, vaginal diseases, and breast firming in women
Premature ejaculation in men

THE PEEPAL FOR AYURVEDIC DOSHA IMBALANCES

Ayurveda explains how every part of Peepal can be used for holistic wellbeing. It works powerfully on Kapha (Water) and Pitta (Fire) Dosha imbalances. The manner in which various parts of the Peepal eliminate water and phlegm (sweating, therapeutic vomiting, diuretic action, and expectorant effects); as well as heat (skin surface and internal purgation, anti-pyretic/temperature reduction) has a beneficial and balancing impact on digestive and skin health.

SKIN REMEDIES IN PEEPAL BARK AND LEAVES

Peepal leaves are inherently astringent. When heated, act as a purgative tonic. They are used in the treatment of:
Persistent skin itching
Dry, cracked heels
Boils, pimples, and blackheads

The bark of the Peepal tree, rich in vitamin K, is an effective complexion corrector and preserver; which makes bark extractions valuable for:
Strengthening blood capillaries and minimising inflammation
Healing skin bruises faster, and increasing skin resilience
Treating pigmentation issues, wrinkles, dark circles
Lightening surgery and pregnancy marks, scars, and stretch marks.

Further, a powder mix of the peepal fruit and bark may be used in the treatment of asthma.

Can Kama Ayurveda place the beauty benefits of Peepal in your hands? The simple answer is, ‘Yes’. Choose daily purification and luminosity, with our Turmeric & Myrrh Skin Brightening Soap or long-term healing for sun-damaged skin with Nalpamaradi Thailam Skin Brightening Treatment. These products have Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus racemosa, and Ficus microcarpa in them.

For reinvigorating detoxification, freshness, and smoothness from Ficus benghalensis, try Kama’s award-winning Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub, or Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid Ayurvedic Night Treatment. The latter is more suited to very dehydrated or pigmented, and mature skin types; though it may be included in late 20’s-early 30’s Skincare regimes. For men, we have the Himalayan Almond Deep Cleansing Face Scrub.


What To Gift To The Woman, Who Gave You Her All?

Do you remember how gently she detangled your locks? How her palms turned sunshine yellow while preparing the haldi ubtan for your soft face? How she experimented with traditional body oils on herself, before she let a drop near your skin? How she tenderly smiled, when you wrapped yourself in her precious Benarsi saree? How she covered your face with her palloo, when you insisted on swinging in the sun? Do you also remember at what point did she completely forget herself, in the bliss of Motherhood? This Mother’s Day, gift your Mother, a date with herself. Choose from the three luxurious Beauty Rituals, curated in beautiful handcrafted packaging by Kama Ayurveda.

Facial Ritual in a handcrafted Potli


At Kama Ayurveda, we understand that a mother’s face must carry only the lines of happiness and the marks of her children’s love. We have packed in Rose-Jasmine face cleanser, Rose water, Kumkumadi Scrub, Lavanya Mask & Eladi Day Cream to refresh, rehydrate and rejuvenate your mother’s skin.

Reviving Body Ritual in a handcrafted Tote

There are no holidays in Motherhood. And that can start showing up as fine lines, lacklustre hair and a tired persona. At Kama Ayurveda, we have carefully selected the best of our products to reinvigorate your mother and her ever-loving spirit. There is the zesty freshness & richness of Sanobar Body cleanser, Sanobar body moisturiser, Vetiver water, Hand cream, Foot cream, Sugandhadi Rejuvenating oil & Foot scrub.

Lustrous Skin and Hair Ritual in a handcrafted basket

Kama Skin and Hair Ritual is made to pamper every inch of her while she soaks in some ‘me’ time. In here you will find the goodness of Rose Jasmine cleanser and Eladi Day cream & Kumkumudi scrub from the Kama Face Ritual. And the magic of Mogra Water , Rejuvenating Night Cream, Bringadi hair oil, lavender Patchouli Shampoo & lavender Patchouli Conditioner is unique to this basket.

To celebrate our mother who taught us to be our strongest, earnest and prettiest, all the seasons of the world will fall short. But a day might suffice to get her to smell the roses. To be herself and not just a sister, daughter, wife or a mother. To thank her for what she is, because we would have her no other way. Happy Mother’s Day.

5 Steps To Stay Beautiful This Summer

5 Steps To Stay Beautiful This Summer

Summer is here. It's time to treat your body to a melange of refreshing drinks and invigorating wellness therapies. Reach out for natural ingredients that can make summer feel like a breeze of fresh air. Indulge your skin with herbs and fresh fruit peels. Nourish your body, inside out, with essential oils, herbs and exotic plants. Keeping the skin well hydrated, lips moisturised and body active is easier than it appears. How?
At Kama Ayurveda, we got you covered, from head to toe, in the most natural way possible. Our 5-step Summer Love will leave you hydrated, refreshed, nourished and totally summer ready.

Summer Love in five easy steps:

Step 1) Cleanse with Nutmeg, Ginger & Lime Soa

Spice up your bath ritual with this citrusy body soap, enriched with Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Castor Oil and Green Tea extracts. This handmade bar from Kama Ayurveda, is made to wash away your worries of dry and dead skin. So be ready to welcome new found radiance and refreshingly younger skin with its regular use. And, enjoy a shower of cool compliments in this sultry heat.

Step 2) Exfoliate with Ubtan: +

Sun-kissed or sunburnt? Kama Ayurveda’s Ubtan is made to sooth away any summer harshness. An invigorating body cleanser, Kama’s Ubtan is packed with the goodness of Oatmeal, Green Gram, Almonds, Neem, Turmeric and Fennel. It gently removes the dirt and oil and helps your skin breathe light and easy. This is what you need, to step out of the shadows into the sun.

Step 3) Nourish with Jwalini:

This is summer food for your skin. The nutritious & refreshing diet every beauty expert will approve of. Kama’s Jwalini is an oil treatment, formulated from natural herbs processed in pure Coconut milk and Sesame oil. Together with the effectiveness of Costus & Cardamom, these soothe skin irritation and neutralise hyper-pigmentation. Jwalini works like magic to enhance skin texture and leaves you sparkling fresh.

Step 4) Hydrate with Pure Mogra Water:


Let your skin soak in the sweet fragrance of hand-picked fresh Indian Mogra or Jasmine. This pure floral water adds essential moisture back into parched skin. This ancient recipe for skin hydration quenches the search for a nerve-soothing summer beauty product. It is known to balance the PH of skin and is a great mood changer.

Step 5) Restore with Foot Scrub:


This summer don’t forget the most important part of your body. With Kama’s Foot Scrub, cleanse & embellish your feet and pamper them to good health. Its ingredients like Apricot are natural exfoliates that gently root out dirt & dead skin. Chamomile, Lime, Sandalwood, Musk & Tea Tree extracts perk up tired feet and infuse them with refreshingly sweet fragrance.
At Kama Ayurveda, we believe in nourishing and healing through nature and its natural minerals and elements. Precious ingredients are carefully bottled to bring you the perfect beauty brew. And each brew understands your body and replenishes it in accordance with the season. Don't wait for anyone, just gift yourself some Summer Love.

5 Essential Oils to Rekindle your Love for Happiness

Petrichor is the fragrance that arises when the grains of dry soil embrace fresh rain drops. Few can resist the happy feeling that this earthy scent is known to arouse. It inspired the great Gene Kelly to immortalise this by singing “No matter what life wants to throw my way, I’ll be singing, I’ll be singing in the rain”.

March is the month of the International Day Of Happiness and this month, we bring you 5 fragrances, bottled in essential oils that are sure to elicit the same feeling of complete bliss. The making of pure Essential Oils, is all about capturing the delicate, soothing, sweet, teasing or wistful essence from plants, flowers and even barks. (When it comes to inducing happiness, these oils can give any chocolate a run for its sweetness.)

For happiness in the air, here are our top 5 Essential Oils:

Lavender Essential Oil: Imagine walking through a sea of purple, bewitched by a flowery fragrance that is brushing away your stress. That is the effect, curated by every drop of pure Lavender oil. Its floral, sweet yet mild aroma has enviable wellness and beauty benefits. As a diffuser oil, Lavender is said to take the burden off your soul. Add this oil to your bath for an exotic Roman experience that will soak away any tension. A princely sleep is a side-effect that you will come to love.

Orange Essential Oil: The fragrance that lingers between your fingers when you peel a beautifully fresh orange, is just so refreshing. It is like the kiss of the sunshine, instantly uplifting your spirits. But do yo know, that the fragrance that is rife between the rinds of this citrus fruit, fights signs of ageing like wrinkles and dark spots. Orange Essential Oil is an age-old beauty secret that boosts you immunity, enhances focus and fights depression.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: The tree of Ylang Yang is sure to lure you with its creamy and flowery fragrance if not its beauty. This yellow coloured flower has a calming effect on the nerves and de-stresses effortlessly. As a diffuser oil, its fragrance evokes self-love, confidence and happiness. And this flower of all flowers adds a bounce to your hair and detangles it like silk. When it caresses your skin it leaves it looking younger and happier.

Bergamot Essential Oil: This fragrance has a citrus note that does wonders to emotional healing. It reminds you of free-spirited waves lashing against your body on a hot sultry day.. Add some drops to your bath water to diffuse the most annoying smells from your life. It even camouflages body-odour, tones skin and lightens the mark of scars. This juicy fragrance is sure to keep you smiling all day.

Cinnamon Essential Oil: Indulge your senses with this woody and sweet smelling oil. It is a trove of beauty secrets that reverse ageing of the skin. Its therapeutic properties add lustre to the mane and even boost hair growth. And its warm fragrance is a mood changer that can make anyone comfortable in their skin.

Mirroring musical scales, all fragrances are a careful blend of notes. A top note, middle note and base note is what makes a fragrance long lasting, sweet or forgetful. And finding this balance, is the key to our happiness in life. Happy Happiness Day to all!

7 Things That Start Happening Once You Start Using Rose Water

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. Ayurvedic texts mention that Rose has a unique property that helps in balancing Sadhaka Pitta, the subdosha of Pitta governing the emotions and their effect on the heart.
Roses play a starring role in ayurvedic beauty care and since thousand 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. 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.

Kama’s Pure Rose Water made from the roses of Kannauj - a region in North India through steam distillation process is of unmatched purity. Once you start using it regularly, you will notice that these seven things will start happening to you as start benefiting from the powerful healing properties of Rose.

  • YOUR SKIN BEGINS TO GLOW

Rose water has strong antidepressant and antianxiety properties that enhances your mood by relaxing your nervous system.

  • YOU START FEELING GOOD

Rose water has strong antidepressant and antianxiety properties that enhances your mood by relaxing your nervous system.

  • YOUR SKIN BREAKOUTS REDUCE

When 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 UP

Rosewater 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 INFECTIONS

Rose 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 BALANCED

The 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 HYDRATED

While 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. Overtime, this improves skin texture significantly.

Rose water is undoubtedly the beauty magic potion and 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 stories as well as on the online store and costs 275 INR for 50 ml.

5 reasons Holi is rejuvenating for your body

5 reasons Holi is rejuvenating for your body

Holi is associated with the colour white, which symbolises the end of one phase and the beginning of a rosy tomorrow. With its arrival, we celebrate the return of colours on the trees, in the sunsets and even our wardrobes. Holi stresses the need to do away with impassive winters, prolonged nights and lacklustre skin & hair. We need to awaken our senses and gear up for the scorching sun and its good and bad effects on our being. And interestingly, all traditional Holi customs make for a perfect body-rejuvenation therapy.

Colours revive and heal our body: In mythology there is a story about an innocent Bal Krishna complaining to mother Yashodha about Radha being fairer as compared to him. Mother Yashodha appeases him by suggesting, that Krishna should colour Radha, in a colour of his choice. The naughty Krishna is said to have coloured his beloved in a hue of colours thereafter. A tradition we seem to follow.

While mythology can make for such interesting reads, the fact remains that colours are vital for a healthy body. When we soak in the vibrant colours of Holi, our mind and body experience myriads of benefits. Playing with colour red can stimulate your heart beat & breathing and invoke love. It is normal to feel happy when surrounded with yellow colour and blue will always cast a calming effect on your senses. So indulge yourself with colours this Holi for a healthier you.

Organic colours are as rich as ubtans: Traditionally the Holi colours are made with naturally beneficial ingredients like hibiscus flowers, henna leaves, kesar, sandalwood and more. These are not just gentle on your skin, hair and eyes but even cleanse and clear the dead skin. Most of these ingredients are used in Ayurveda for invigorating our body and giving it a healthy glow. So go organic this holi, and scrub your skin to a sunshine glow.

Holika dahan purifies our space: Holi, like many other festivals, falls in the cusp of winters and spring. This season also exposes us to a number of impurities in the air around us. Hence, the burning of Holika (A day before Holi, many light a bonfire that symbolises the burning of evil), and the tradition of walking around the fire deodorise our environment and purify us from within.

Traditional Holi drinks are great energisers: As we wake up from our great winter slumber, our body needs more than just a cold shower. Holi drinks like Thandai and Kaanji act as great coolants and are a great source of anti-oxidants. Thandai, with its milk flavour has the goodness of almonds, watermelon seeds, fennel seeds and even rose petals. And Kaanji, a traditional Punjabi fermented drink is packed with rich nutrients and fibre. So raise that glass and celebrate Holi on a new high.

Kama Ayurveda’s Pre-Holi and Post-holi regimen enhances your Holi experience: We at Kama Ayurveda admire, your love & care for your body. And this festive season, we present a Pre-Holi and Post-Holi regime to keep your mane shining and your skin smiling.

Pre-Holi Regime: We want you to enjoy every burst of colour-bomb around you, without having to worry about its effect. Holi colours are known to irritate sensitive skin and leave your scalp dry & hair lifeless. But Kama Ayurveda has the perfect combination of hair treatment and skin-care to make Holi body-friendly for you.

1. Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment: Massage this traditional Ayurvedic oil on your scalp to prevent any scalp infections. The gooseberry and sesame oil in it, act as natural conditioners. This oil acts as a physical barrier against absorption of wet and dry colours. It is known to protect hair from staining, breakage and any roughness.
2. Organic Coconut Oil / Almond Oil: Choose from our 100% pure and organic Coconut and Almond Oil. These are non-sticky and easily absorbed oils, that protect the skin from any irritants. The rich nutrients in these oils soften the skin and prevent skin-dehydration, especially due to harsh colours. Just apply these liberally before you step out to brave the colours.

Post-Holi Regime: The protective and effective Pre-Holi regime is completely supported by our After-Holi cleanse and repair therapy.

Cleanse & Clear
1. Sanobar /Lavender Patchouli Shampoo: Rich in anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, both these shampoos provide you a great hair-cleansing option. These shampoos clarify and tone oily scalp without dehydrating it. The natural ingredients in them like hibiscus, neem or patchouli remove the impurities & colour and restore a healthy shine in your mane.
2. Mridul Soap Free Face Cleanser: This scrub cleanser with clarifying green gram, neem, sandalwood and fennel is soft on the skin. Use this cleanser to exfoliate your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It can help remove colour and its side-effects and is soothing for sensitive skin too.
3. Ubtan Soap Free Body Cleanser: Traditionally used after Ayurvedic treatments to clean skin, it makes for a great alternative to soap. A combination of finely powdered herbs, cereals and nuts like oatmeal, turmeric, neem etc help cleanse colours effectively.

Repair & Rejuvenate
1. Sanobar / Lavender Patchouli Conditioner: Pamper your hair with our Sanobar or Lavender Patchouli conditioners. These rich, milky and deep moisturising conditioners leave your hair silky, detangled and scented with woody and citrus notes. These are richly infused with ingredients like almonds oils, gooseberry and soy extracts that nourish and hydrate the hair.
2. Jwalini Retexturising Skin Treatment Oil: This miracle oil contains costus and cardamom, which are known for their ‘Varneekarana’ properties - the ability to soothe and treat irritation. Prescribed in Ayurveda as a treatment for baby-soft and healthy skin, this oil nourishes and rehydrates skin with love.
Now all you need is a crisp white attire and some organic colours. And if you are looking around for a great Holi Gift, check out our Kama Ayurveda Holi Box (Link to the box). After all Holi Hai!

The Original No-Poo: Kesini, an Ayurvedic Solution

KESINI

“No Poo” which refers to a practice whereby commercial shampoos are discarded in favor of natural cleansing methods is fast gaining popularity. Advocates of the movement argue that once shampoo was mass industrialized in the 1970s, hair and hair care was never the same again: women in particular, went from washing their hair from once a month to several times in a week, and as a result suffered a variety of hair and scalp issues more than ever before.

The contemporary “no poo” movement is a reaction to the mass industrialization of commercial shampoo and raises a red flag against many of the chemicals that are added to these formulas, and cause long-term damage. The movement rests on using natural and organic substances to wash hair including baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or only water. Over time, its proponents suggest, hair becomes healthier, stronger and shinier – much like it was pre 70s, before glitzy commercials made us believe that packet shampoo could bring us wavy, enviable locks.

While no poo has already been deemed successful, it is less widely known that Ayurveda has had its own very successful answer to the shampoo problem for several decades.

Kesini is the original “no poo” formula, and one that we have been making at the AVP ayurvedic hospital since 1998. Here we address some of the most common questions about this star product:

Q1. How is Kesini Made?
Kesini is a completely natural product that is prepared by combining the purest raw materials. All the ingredients are taken according to the proportions mentioned in ancient, ayurvedic reference texts and powdered according to their instructions.

Q2. How frequently is it to be used, and how?
Kesini is perfectly safe to be used daily. This is how to use it: Mix 2 to 3 teaspoons of the powder in a bowl. Add approx. 30ml warm water to form a paste. Apply evenly on wet scalp, massage in circular movements and wash thoroughly. Kesini works superbly when the hair is already preconditioned with oils. Any oil could be applied on the scalp and left for 10 – 15 minutes before cleansing it with Kesini.

Q3. Is Kesini a replacement for shampoo, like apple cider vinegar/baking soda combo in the “no poo” method?
Yes, Kesini herbal hair wash powder allows you to cleanse your hair without drying it, effectively the same goal as the natural solutions employed in the “no poo movement.” We believe that people destroy the ecosystem of their scalp by applying various chemicals to tame it. Naturally it takes months to get over the side effects of these harsh products. So we always recommend shifting to the natural way of cleansing the hair and protecting the scalp from harsh chemicals.

Q4. What are the long term benefits of using kesini?
Kesini is a 100% natural, herbal formula that cleanse and conditions the scalp. It gives a cooling effect to the scalp when used. It also cleanses the hair completely removing dirt, dust and excess oil and makes the hair soft and silky. Using kesini regularly would not only nourish the hair but also makes the hair healthy and shiny. The herbs used in this pack will prevent hair breakage. It gives hair natural floss and bounce.

Q5. What are some of the ingredients used in Kesini, and what are their benefits?
• Rose Petals - Rose petals are great for soothing, nourishing, and removing flaky skin from the scalp. They increase blood flow, reduces hair fall and add volume to the hair.
•Tulsi - Tulsi helps to remove dirt flakes and dandruff. It hydrates the scalp, preventing the hair from becoming dry. It will reduce body heat and prevent hair fall, kill lice and thicken hair.
•Shikkakai – Shikkakai is abundant in Vitamin C and Vitamin D and it nourishes hair follicles using micro nutrients. Shikkakai also helps to maintain the natural oil of the hair.
•Green Gram - Our Hair needs proteins and vitamin B and Green Gram is rich in these constituents. Green gram also cleanses your scalp and maintains the right moisture content.
•Chickpeas (Cicier Arietinum) – contains proteins and manganese which helps prevent hair greying.
•Lantana Camara –helps to lower body temperature.
•Vetiver –prevents hair loss and helps in the regeneration of hair.