Kama Ayurveda - Page 18 of 18

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.

Answers to your hair troubles

Haircare Q&As with an Ayurvedic Doctor

Thanks to the stressful lives many of us lead, it is no surprise that hair fall, breakage, hair loss and unhealthy hair are amongst the top beauty concerns of our generation today. Moreover, to make things worse, the commonality of these concerns have generated several myths, which often exacerbate conditions for those who suffer. In this Q and A session with our expert in-house ayurvedic doctor, we attempt to do some hair myth-busting to help you get to the truth of good hair:

Q1. How much hair loss is normal, on a daily basis?

Its normal to shed 50-100 strands a day.

Q2. What causes hair fall?

There are multiple causes. These can include your genetic makeup, a hormonal imbalance, an illness, medication, and stress.

Q3. Can you tell us more about male baldness?

In male pattern baldness, a receding hairline and baldness are the first few signs of hair fall. It can be a genetic condition, but can also be due to fungal infections, or localized infections, like ringworm. Other reasons for male baldness may include:

Dandruff
Alopecia
Tying hair very tightly
Trichotillomania eg: excessive hair styling and heating agents are responsible for hair loss.
Medication-Drugs-used for cancer, arthritis, depression and birth control.
Hypervitaminosis (extra Vitamin A) causes hair to fall eg:-chemotherapy & radiation therapy

Q4. Does hair fall always lead to baldness?

For men it does, for women it usually begins with hair thinning, but baldness is not a necessary outcome.

Q5. Please tell us which foods are best for hair and why?

Ingredient	Vitamin /Nutrient	Helps With
Almonds	Magnesium,Calcium,Zinc,Omega 3 Fatty acids ,Vitamin E	Enhances hair growth and gives hair shine
Neem	Vitamin E ,Essential Fatty Acid,	Protects from external damage and thickens hair strands
Amla	VitamiC & amino acids	Strengthens the hair shaft ,reduces graying, and soothes the scalp
Lavender	Linalool ,linalyl acetate	Nourishes and moisturizes hair and prevents hair fall
Henna	Lawsonia Inermis	Protects hair from the sun and dust, prevents dandruff and hair fall
Indigo	Indigofera Tinctoria	Prevents hair graying and dullness(due to pollution, sun damage and stress)

Q6. Does stress cause hair fall?

A: Yes it can. Telogen effluvium (a phenomenon that happens after pregnancy), surgery, drastic whitening, hair loss and extreme stress can all cause us to shed large amounts of hair every day.

Q7. Does pregnancy cause hair fall?

Immediately after childbirth, hormonal changes in a woman’s body can cause hair fall, although during pregnancy women usually enjoy thicker and fuller hair.

Q8. Which natural ayurvedic remedies can prevent hair fall?

A combination of diet, herbs, oil message,aromatherapy ,meditation, pranayama and yoga are beneficial for improving hair fall and preventing premature greying. For example, we would warn against food that increases the pita Dosha for someone who already has a pitta imbalance: this would cause hair fall.

Various herbs like Bhringaraj, gooseberry, reetha and neem really help with scalp infections.

Q9. Does using a blow dryer cause more hair fall?

If you are using a heat protective serum a blow dryer is tolerable, however it is advisable to dry hair naturally.

Q10. Why does hair loss happen to teenagers?

This is usually due to hormonal imbalances, like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Other reasons include Rhyroid, fungal infections or an unhealthy diet.

Q11. What is alopecia?

This is a general medical term for hair loss. Alopecia Areata is a common, auto immune skin disease causing hair loss and other areas of the body and it can happen at any age.

It is usually hereditary and is linked to having too much of a male hormone called DHT. It also affects women (female pattern baldness is when hair thins on top of the head), and this can be often happen during menopause.

Q12. Do hair dyes and styling products affect hair fall?

Yes, if the hair dye consists of chemicals like ammonia, this can damage hair and cause protein loss from the hair shaft, which makes the hair appear thinner.

Styling products like hair irons, curlers can cause the hair to break.

Hair sprays also cause brittleness of the hair, and we suggest you use a heat protective serum if you must use one.

Q13. Can brushing make hair stronger or resistant to hair loss?

Brushing very vigorously can break hair, and combing/brushing wet hair causes breakage. We recommend using a wide toothed comb on wet hair for detangling, and then brushing hair when dry.

Q14. Will regular trimming improve hair fall?

By trimming hair regularly, you will have less breakage, and your hair will look shinier. We recommend trimming your hair once in three months.

Q15. Can towel drying your head cause hair fall?

Yes, towel drying can cause hair to break and fall if you are not gentle. This especially happens when one rings or squeezes hair against a towel; this can worsen split ends and pull hair from the root, thereby damaging hair.

Holiday Gifting

As the festive season kicks in, choosing special gifts for all the important people in our lives can be very time consuming. This guide attempts to make this process more efficient and bring the joy back in to gift giving! Check out, some of our suggestions specially customized for the different people in your lives:

#mom: for the lady who knows best, we recommend:

- the rose and jasmine face cleanser

- our pure rosewater

- the Eladi day cream or enriching Rejuvenating and Brightening Night cream

#sister: to thank her for all the squabbles that make you stronger, we recommend:

- our hand cream

- coconut virgin oil (for hair and body)

- The Lavanya face mask

For the low maintenance #brother, we recommend:

- our facial toner

- Signature Essentials Mens face box

Give your #partner one of our more luxurious gifts. We recommend:

Our signature boxes for him or her

For the #boss I recommend :

-incense sticks

-The Paradiso candle, jasmine candle, the Madurai candle or the Madurai candle with a brass holder

Making choices for #relatives can be tricky. We recommend our

hand soaps; particularly Nava, Nimba and Heal; that benefit most people.

Thank #grandmother for always having your back: For her, we recommend our signature product,

The Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid and

the turmeric and myrrh skin brightening soap.

#Grandpa will probably enjoy:

a foot cream or the sugar and Tamarind soap, to add a dash of freshness to his routine.

Now, for the #boss for being our support system at workplace:

Our lovely Kama incense sticks can bring immense peace and joy to them. We recommend supplementing this with some of our most soothing essential oils (basil, French Cypress, Lavender Oil and Cintronella) and our candles -Paradiso, Jasmine and Madurai candle.

And last, but not least, reward your #pet for all the unconditional love.We recommend our neem oil to keep their skin in optimal health.

Happy shopping, and happy happy holidays!

Eco Friendly Holidays

A cleaner, greener holiday season

With the festive season in full swing, thinking about the quality of air we breathe while we celebrate can raise a red flag .At Kama Ayurveda, while we are strong advocates of the party mood, we are also interested in finding a balance and reducing the consequences. Here are some small steps we are personally taking to create eco-friendly holidays.

Each one of the points below are links that we encourage you to click on:

1. Purifying the air in your home with these easy-to-grow plants

2. Carpooling! The next time you accept a party invite, ask the host who else in your area may be invited. Make plans to go together.

3. As you get into your best festival garb and prepare to look your best, make conscious choices about the products you buy.

4.Light up your home with smoke free candles and diyas

Happy, Healthy Holidays!

Kama Ayurveda

About Turmerics

At-home-solutions: the magic of turmeric

Arguably the most powerful natural ingredient ever, turmeric is a natural skin brightener. It reduces dark circles and puffiness, soothes cracked skin, and takes care of hard-to-get-rid-of pigmentation.

The main factor that makes turmeric such a potent healer is its main bioactive compound, Curcumin. This is what gives turmeric its powerful, anti-inflammatory effects.

Here are some was to consume this brilliant, natural herb.

We begin with ways to incorporate turmeric in to your diet.

TURMERIC IN YOUR DIET

Haldi Doodh:

Blendning haldi and doodh (milk) together, and incorporating this mixture in to your everyday diet can prevent diseases and infections. This is a particularly effective remedy to fight hazardous environmental toxins and harmful microorganisms.

Turmeric Chai:

For tea lovers, turmeric tea is another great way of including turmeric in daily life. Add a pinch in your morning, afternoon and evening chai (tea).

Turmeric Curry:

Most Indian curries have a healthy dose of turmeric. Aside from its natural healing properties, turmeric also gives flavor and color to the curry.

If you have not been adding turmeric to your curries yet, try experimenting with some and see the difference.

For those people who don’t eat curries regularly, turmeric can also be easily incorporated into a salad dressing.

Turmeric Chawal:

If you love rice, add turmeric to it, and enjoy the amazing flavor and color.

Turmeric Soup:

Turmeric can also easily be added to a soup; its especially tasty in a lentil soup

BEAUTY AND HEALTH SOLUTIONS

Here are some quick and easy DIY turmeric based recipes that treat a number of beauty and health issues.

Things You'll Need

Turmeric powder
Water
Cotton strips

TREAT SKIN INFLAMMATION

Make a turmeric paste to heal mild skin inflammation, scrapes and lesions. Add ground turmeric powder to water and mix to form a uniform paste. Apply the paste onto the skin with a clean cotton swab or tongue depressor to cover the affected area. Cover the paste with a cotton bandage or strips to protect the area and prevent the turmeric paste from being removed. Leave on and repeat as necessary.

PREVENT ANTI FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Treat fungal infections on the skin or toenails with an anti-fungal turmeric poultice. Soak strips of cotton with a paste made with turmeric and water and apply to the infected area. Leave on and cover with clean cotton to help the poultice remain in place. Also add turmeric powder to a warm foot bath and soak feet to cleanse and treat fungus growth.

SOOTHE BURNS

Soak strips of cotton with a paste made with turmeric and water and apply to the area. Leave on and cover with clean cotton to help the poultice remain in place.

STOMACHE AILMENTS

Dissolve turmeric powder in a glass of water or milk to make a herbal remedy drink to soothe stomach inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Use warm water or milk for a more even texture of the turmeric tonic. Drink as needed for internal treatment.

HOME SCRUB

Make a cleansing facial scrub for acne, blocked pores and other minor skin ailments by mixing a small amount of turmeric powder with your daily skin cleanser. Apply to the face with gentle, circular scrubbing motions to exfoliate and deep cleanse. Rinse immediately with warm water to avoid staining the skin yellow.

Hair Care Faq

How and how often should people shampoo and oil their hair?

How often you should shampoo your hair changes from one individual to the other. If the scalp is more oily, it is okay to shampoo daily. Cleansing the scalp is more important than the hair as it is the place where sebum is concentrated. For most people, shampooing the hair twice a week is sufficient.

Which oil is best for specific hair types?

Massaging the scalp and hair with warm oil -- preferably infused with hair-friendly herbs -- is the best way to nourish the scalp and hair topically. Not only does the massage work wonders for the hair, but it also relaxes the mind and nervous system.

The first step to selecting the best oil is to understand what kind of hair you have, according to your ayurvedic constitution.

If your hair is thin, frizzy and prone to split-ends, you have Vata predominant hair.
If you have fine hair which is prone to premature thinning or greying, you have Pitta-predominant hair.
If your hair is thicky and oily, it is Kapha predominant.

If you are Vata-predominant: choose almond oil or sesame oil as the base oil. Both of these oils are very nourishing for the scalp and hair, and help reduce stiffness and tightness in the scalp.
If you are Pitta- predominant: coconut oil is the ideal choice. Because coconut is pitta pacifying, coconut oil massages can relieve hair problems such as thinning and premature greying, that are associated with an aggravated Pitta dosha.
If you are Kapha-predominant: sesame or olive oil are good choices.

Regular hair oil massages have the following benefits:
They lubricate and condition the scalp.
They enhance blood circulation in the head and neck area. When the scalp is "tight" from stress, circulation and hair growth are impeded.
They help relax the scalp, and increase pliability.
They help strengthen the roots of the hair and nourishes the hair-shafts, promoting new hair growth.
They helps soften and condition the hair, making it more manageable.
They spreads the natural oils of the hair, increasing hair lustre and vibrancy.

They help protect hair from the damaging effects of the sun and harsh weather by improving resilience over time.
They replenish and rejuvenate dry, damaged hair, and help prevent excessive brittleness and split-ends.
A warm hair massage oil should be done at least once a week. Vata predominant people should try to do this two or three times a week.

What are some good homemade hair packs for dry and oily hair respectively?

Homemade Hair Pack for Dry Hair - Scrape out all the coconut cream at the bottom of a tender green coconut. Put it in a vessel and warm it slightly for 1 minute. Slowly massage it into your hair from root to tip. Wrap your hair in a warm towel and stay put for an hour. Wash with a mild shampoo and air-dry hair naturally.
Homemade Hair Pack for Oily Hair - Mix juice of 1 fresh orange, 1 tbsp. honey and a 5-7 drops of lavender oil. Dilute in a cup of water. Use as an after-shampoo rinse. After 10 minutes, run cold water through the hair. Lavender oil stimulates hair growth, balances oil production and replenishes the hair and scalp.

Can rain water cause damage to our hair? What should you do if you get wet in the rain?
Yes, rainwater can be harmful to the hair because it contains a lot of pollutants. If rainwater touches your hair, it damages your hair shaft and weakens your hair in the process.
If you get wet in the rain wash your hair as soon as possible with a mild shampoo, followed by a conditioner. Do not leave the rainwater in the hair for long time as it is high in chemical contents and can damage the hair.

What are few hair care regimens that are key to maintaining healthy hair during the monsoon?
If you do wet your hair in the rain, make sure that you wash your hair as soon as possible with a mild shampoo and condition after that. Do not leave the rainwater in the hair for long time as it is high in chemical contents and can damage the hair.
Do not use hair spray or gel in the monsoons as these stick to the scalp and cause dandruff. Avoid using a blow dryer. However, if your hair is wet at night, apply lots of leave-in conditioner on the hair and then blow dry on cold air.
Use a humidity-protective gel before styling. These gels help by forming a protective coat over the hair cuticle and prevent moisture from getting in, and also going out.Due to high humidity and wet hair, dandruff is a common problem in monsoon. Make sure that you use an effective anti-dandruff shampoo once a week. However, use your normal regular wash shampoo on other days.
The chlorine content in water during the monsoon is also very high; this can bleach and damage your hair. If possible wear caps or rain coats with a cap/hood to protect the hair from coming in contact with rain water.
The Monsoon is also a great time for lice to breed. In case of any itching on the scalp, use neem oil twice a week.

Ayurvedic Ingredients And Their Benefit

Q.No: 1 : What are the most popular Ayurvedic Ingredients being used in Kama’s products? What are their benefits?

The most popular Ayurvedic ingredients used in the products and their benefits are as follows:

Sesame Oil

The vitamin E found in sesame oil acts as an excellent antioxidant.
A natural sunscreen
Deeply moisturizing
Slows down the skin ageing process
Helps in detoxifying and repairing damaged skin cells
Its anti-inflammatory property helps prevent bacterial infections

Gooseberry – Amla

Super rich in Vitamin C
Amla’s cooling property makes it ideal for all skin disorders
Its strong antioxidant properties help in protecting skin from infections
Slows down the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Minimizes breakouts and oiliness
Gives the skin a natural glow

Vetiver

Regenerates skin tissues
Speeds up the fading of scars, dark spots and other marks
Rebuilds the skin surface
Minimizes acne
Supports and strengthens the skin’s connective tissues, and fights against sagging.

Indian Madder – Rubia Cordifolia

Gives the skin a natural glow and lustre.
Helps in minimizing pimples, freckles and discoloration

Cow’s Milk

Contains lactic acid, which is a gentle and effective exfoliant. This peels away dead layers of skin cells, revealing a fresher and supple layer underneath.
Soothes dry and itchy skin
The Vitamin A and D present in the millk improves skin strength and tone.

Liquorice

Liquorice’s main component – glycyrrhizinate – is an effective anti-inflammatory formulation and moisturizer.
Liquourice has the ability to lighten the skin and to prevent further hyper-pigmentation.

Cardamom

Hydrates skin
Helps in warming the body, resulting in increased blood circulation.
Nourishes and soothes skin.

Sida Cordifolia

Sida Cordifolia is known as “Bala” in Ayurveda, meaning ‘strength.’
Used to increase bone, muscle and joint strength.
Acts as a coolant.
Can be used by all body types
Improves skin texture and gives a natural glow

Ashwagandha

Confers immune system protection
Combats the effects of stress
Used as an adaptogen to help the body cope with daily stress and as a general tonic.
Decreases inflammation
Prevent the effects of ageing
Can treat wounds and backaches.

Jujube – Zizypus Jujuba

Loaded with amino acids, jujube helps the body form proteins.
Relieves stress and anxiety
Helps lower blood pressure
Has antioxidant properties which delay the skin ageing process.
Has anti-carcinogenic properties
Reduces wrinkles, dryness, redness, and swelling provides relief from sunburns.

Turmeric

Loaded with high antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help cure acne.
Reduces blemishes
Prevents blackheads
Reduces inflammation and evens out skin discolouration
Cures eczema & psoriasis
Prevents dry skin
Diminishes wrinkles
Brightens skin

Q.No: 2: How technology has helped in improving the efficacy of the existing ingredients? Can you give us any examples?

An important technology that has been developed for improving the efficacy of the existing Ayurvedic ingredients is through Carbon dioxide or Super Critical Extraction. A further advanced version is the Post Super Critical Extract.

The Co2 extraction process consists of pumping pressurized carbon dioxide into a chamber filled with plant matter. When carbon dioxide is subjected to pressure it becomes “supercritical” and has liquid properties while remaining in a gaseous state. Because of the liquid properties of the gas, the Co2 functions as a solvent, pulling the oils and other substances such as pigment and resin from the plant matter. Thus, the difference between CO2, or supercritical, extraction and traditional distillation is that CO2 is used as a solvent instead of heated water or steam. The temperature involved in the supercritical extraction process is around 95 to 100 degrees F as opposed to 140 to 212 degrees F in steam distillation.

The benefits of using CO2 extraction are as follows.

Superior in terms of both freshness and the breadth of active constituents left in the herb
Full spectrum or more active constituents of the plant are realized with a potency that cannot be surpassed
Extracts are pure and clean – free of solvent residues
Mild operating temperature ensures product stability and quality
The only type of extraction that unlocks the fat soluble components of the plant

PSE (Post Supercritical Extract) refers to the water soluble extract that is performed after (in addition to) the Co2 extract. The Co2 extraction delivers the fat soluble plant “goodies”, while the PSE or water extract, delivers the water soluble components of the plant.

Using these extraction procedures we get the best out of a particular plant material and using this in the formulation will provide better efficacy leading to faster results.

Q.No:3: Are there any new ingredients, new inventions that are being used these days?

No, there are no new Ayurvedic ingredients. Ayurvedic Ingredients have been healing people for more than 4000 years. The science of efficacy with focus on Ayurvedic ingredients clearly states how modern studies are proving ancient traditions. For example, curcumin is an ingredient which is gaining popularity now, but actually is one of the oldest ingredients that has been used in foods and traditional healing for thousands of years. Another example is Aloevera -- people don’t realize it is an Ayurvedic ingredient.

The "bricks and mortar" architecture of the skin's stratum corneum prevents active ingredients in skincare products from entering the dermis. As a result, existing skincare treatments have very limited efficacy and tolerability. Modern medicine focuses on destroying pathogenic invaders from outside the body; Ayurveda focuses on making the body's defences as strong as possible by promoting inner balance and strengthening the immune system.

Liposome technology is making its entry into the Ayurvedic industry. It provides a superior method of active ingredient delivery. This breakthrough method allows active natural ingredients to penetrate through the outer layers of the skin (epidermis) to reach the inner layers of the skin (dermis). Liposome bilayers can then fuse with other bilayers such as the cell membrane and deliver the liposome contents to the skin.

Q.No:4: Is the Vata, Pitta and Kapha formulation still followed in Ayurvedic formulations?

Ayurveda heals by identifying your unique dosha pattern.

Each dosha - Vata, Pitta and Kapha - combines the five elements of the universe (air, fire, water, earth, space) in a particular manner.

All the cells in the body contain all three doshas.

To remain alive, the body has Vata, or motion, which allows it to breathe, circulate blood, pass food through the digestive tract, and send nerve impulses to and from the brain.
It has Pitta, or metabolism, which processes food, air and water throughout the entire system.
It has Kapha, or structure, to hold the cells together and form muscle, fat, bone and sinew. Nature needs all three to build the human body, or what is known as the prakriti.

The three doshas can be combined in three possible ways to arrive at three different body and behavioral types: Vata – Pitta, Pitta – Kapha, and Kapha – Vata, because usually there is one predominant dosha.

Therefore the principles of Vata, Pitta and Kapha are followed in preparing various Ayurvedic formulations.

You also have tridoshic oils prepared with herbal extracts that act to balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These blends can help balance and alleviate aggravations of all three doshas, when symptoms are complex and variable. Tridoshic oil promotes the elimination of toxins, and creates a feeling of relaxation. Through massage, these oils can soothes the skin and muscles, nourishes the nervous system.

Q.No: 5: Which ayurvedic ingredients are most common and preferable in the monsoon, and why?

The months of July and August represent the varsha ritu or the rainy season. According to Ayurveda, this is the time for pitta aggravation. All the heat that accumulates in the body in the greesham ritu (summer season) is aggravated in the rainy season. There are a number of skin diseases prevalent in the rainy season.

MV NOTE: This seems to be about a different topic: how ayurveda works, instead of ‘monsoon’.

The skin has six layers which extend to the deeper levels of the body. A skin disease can be rooted deeply in the skin’s fat, muscles, and blood. Ayurveda cures the disease by treating its cause, not just its symptoms. Since most diseases are deep rooted, it is often difficult to fix problems quickly. Ayurvedic skin treatments may take a few weeks to remove the symptoms, but the diseases are treated permanently. Skin diseases are caused due to imbalances in all the three doshas -- the prime dosha involved is pitta. Pitta symbolizes heat or fire. Therefore, all those foods or activities that increase the fire element in the body should be eliminated.

Ingredients which could be used during the monsoon are below:

Manjista - promotes healthy, vibrant skin. In Ayurveda, removing natural toxins and excess pitta from the blood is an important factor in supporting health skin. Manjista is the foremost blood cleanser in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
Neem - bitter and very cooling. Neem is known for its effectiveness in dealing with nearly all types of pitta imbalances. Supports healthy skin and a healthy digestive environment.
Shatavari - potent rejuvenator that increases energy, bolsters the immune system and supports proper digestion. Shatavari also has a special affinity for the female reproductive system and is used by women of all ages to foster reproductive health and a balanced cycle.
Brahmi - Traditionally used to promote memory intelligence and longevity, Brahmi is the foremost rejuvenative for the brain and nervous system. When brahmi oil is applied to the head and feet, it cools the system and promotes sound sleep.
Amalaki - Nourishing and cleansing, this potent antioxidant assists natural internal cleansing and gently maintains regularity. Commonly taken as a substitute for Triphala by those with excess heat (pitta) in the digestive tract.

Bhringaraj - Highly reputed for its ability to promote healthy hair growth and as a rejuvenative for the mind. It helps calm Pitta emotions like irritability, impatience and judgment.

Organic products explained

1. How would you define an organic beauty product? What are the parameters by which a user can identify an organic product?

If a cosmetic, body care or personal care product contains or is made up of agricultural ingredients and can meet the National Organic Program (NOP) organic production, handling, processing and labelling standards, it may be eligible to be certified as an organic beauty product under the NOP regulations.

An user can identify an organic product once they are certified. Each can fit in to one the following categories after certification:

(a) 100% ORGANIC – If the following conditions are fulfilled

All ingredients must be certified organic
Any processing aids must be organic
Product Label must state the name of the certifying agent on the information panel
Organic Logo can be displayed

(b) ORGANIC – If the following conditions are fulfilled

Product must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt)
Remaining product ingredients must consist of non-agricultural substances approved on the list provided that are not commercially available on an agricultural farm.
Product Label must state the name of the certifying agent on the information panel
Organic Logo can be displayed

At least 70 percent of the products must be certified organic ingredients (excluding salt and water)
Remaining agricultural products are not required to be organically produced but must be produced without excluded methods (e.g.: genetic engineering, ionizing radiation or sewage sludge)
Non Agricultural products must be specifically allowed on the approved list
Product Label must state the name of the certifying agent on the information panel
Organic Logo cannot be displayed

(d) LESS THAN 70% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS – If the following conditions are fulfilled

Products Cannot use the term “Organic” anywhere in the principal display label
Organic Certified ingredients may be specified
Organic Logo cannot be displayed
Name of the certifying agent should not be displayed on the information panel

Depending on the log and classification, the user can identify an organic product and differenitate between types of organic labels.

2. What are the global certifications that signify that products are 100 percent organic?

Some of certifications globally that signify that the products are 100% organic are as follows

European Regulation (EC)
America Regulation (NOP – USDA)
Japanese Regulation (JAS)
Ecocert
India – National Program for Organic Production (NPOP)
Australian Certified Organic
Soil Association organic Standard
NaTrue
BDIH – Certified Natural Cosmetics
COSMOS ORGANIC – Cosmetic Bio

3. Are organic products really more beneficial than regular nature-based products? If yes, how?

Organic based products go through a strict process to ensure safety, quality, and non-harmful process which means a little more money upfront, but less medical expenses and less harm to the body. ‘Nature Based’ is a slogan that has more to do with branding and marketing. This doesn’t mean that all natural- based products are bad, it just means that harmful pesticides or additives could be included in the natural product.

Ordinary commercial cosmetic products -- which include even those that are manufactured by well-reputed brands -- often contain toxic and chemically-potent substances capable of causing long term, adverse impacts on human skin. Some people, in fact, exhibit immediate health problems upon use of such products. However, more and more people around the world are becoming aware of the dangers of using chemical cosmetics. This has led to a steady rise in the demand for certified organic skin care and cosmetics.

Natural Cosmetics are those that are not made using any chemical ingredients and processes. This definition may look simple, but in the world of cosmetics it is far from clear. Natural and organic cosmetics are mostly used synonymously. Natural Cosmetics replace the carcinogenic products derived from the petroleum base. Ingredients in natural resources are obtained from plants and natural sources.

4. Is ‘going 100 percent natural,’ the same as ‘going organic?’ Do organic products have less preservatives than say, nature-based products?

No, going 100% natural is different from going organic.

A 100% natural substance is derived from a plant, mineral or animal source, without having undergone a synthetic process. Physical and biological processes can still render a substance as 100% natural. 100% Natural substances can result from physical and biological processes, even when the resulting substance cannot be found in nature independent of these processes.

Organic cosmetics include only natural vegetable origin raw materials, which were grown without chemical interference such as fertilization or pest control. The active ingredients are produced using natural and environmental-friendly procedures. The packages are also non-contaminating and recyclable.

Preservatives are ingredients you add to your skin care formulas to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast and fungi. For organic and natural products if you want to add natural preservatives, preservatives have to be added at a much higher rate to be effective. The basic rule is the more natural preservatives we use the higher the quantity has to be used and if using a synthetic preservative a small quantity is sufficient.

5. What to look for in the labels to know that the product is truly organic?

You have to look for the following in the labels to know that the products are truly organic.

Only products with organic content that is greater than or equal to 95% may be labelled as: "Organic" or bear the "organic" logo. These products must be certified and the name of the Certification Body must appear on the label.
Multi-ingredient products with 70-95% organic content may have the declaration: "contains x% organic ingredients". These products may not use the organic logo and/or the claim "Organic". These products must be certified and the name of the Certification Body must appear on the label.
Multi-ingredient products with less than 70% "organic" content may only contain organic claims in the product's ingredient list. These products do not require certification and may not use the "organic" logo. However, the organic ingredients contained within these products must be certified.

Products that make an "organic" claim must be certified by a Certification Body

6. Organic products are more expensive than regular beauty products, making them unaffordable for many. How are beauty brands dealing with this issue?

Many beauty brands are creating awareness around the benefits of using organic products through various means. This has resulted a sale increase of organic products in spite of an economic recession, and the high cost of the product. People are prioritizing their health, and willing to pay more to go organic.

7.How does going organic or opting for organic beauty products help the community?

As consumers, its becoming easier to make good decisions in our everyday shopping, as more and more beauty and skincare brands are including fair-trade certified ingredients in their products. Fairtrade certification ensures that the producers receive a fair price along with a fair-trade premium that can go towards projects that help local communities. We can even make a difference with our choice of lipstick, as fair-trade cosmetics are becoming more readily available.

Fair-trade also encourages farmers and producers to work using sustainable methods. Organic and Fair-trade values go hand in hand. In a new but growing market, there are some amazing beauty products that do contain both organic and Fair-trade certificates.