Don’t all of us want healthy glowing skin? And while there is a ton of information out there about taking care of your skin, the basics of skin care actually boil down to a few simple dos and don’ts. Do have a healthy balanced diet that nourishes your skin and protects your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Don’t use harsh soaps or hot water which can remove skin oils and avoid smoking.^[1][Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin].Mayo Clinic. According to ayurveda, you should customize your skin care regimen according to your prakriti (or constitution which is based on your predominant dosha) so that you can pay attention to your problem areas. If you have

• Vata skin: Vata skin is thin, dry, has fine pores, and is cool to the touch. It is prone to premature aging and tends to develop wrinkles earlier than other skin types. Skin care products that nourish and rehydrate skin can help. Try to include natural moisturizers and warm oil massages in your skincare regimen.
• Pitta skin: Pitta skin is of medium thickness, soft, fair, and warm. It tends to be photosensitive, that is, it doesn’t tolerate sun exposure very well and is likely to accumulate sun damage over the years. Using a good quality sunscreen when out in the sun as well as herbs that offer protection from the sun’s damaging effects can be helpful.
• Kapha skin: Kapha skin is oily, soft, cool to the touch, and thick. It’s slow to develop wrinkles when compared to pitta or vata skin types. Daily warm oil massages and cleaning your skin with a gentle exfoliant can be helpful.

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s take a look at some beneficial plants and herbs which can add to your skin care regimen.

1. Amla

Amla is highly valued in ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It is said to have 5 rasas (tastes), amla (sour), kashaya (astringent), tikta (bitter), katu (pungent), and madhur (sweet). Of these the sour and astringent tastes dominate. Amla is also said to alleviate all three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha.^[2]Bhat, Pravin M., Hari Umale, and Madhukar Lahankar. “Amalaki: A review on functional and pharmacological properties.” Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 8, no. 3 (2019): … Continue reading

i. It Has An Anti-Aging Effect On Skin

One study found that having amla fruit extract and lingonberry extract for a period of 12 weeks improved skin elasticity, thickness, hydration, as well as wrinkles in women.^[3]Uchiyama, Taro, Makoto Tsunenaga, Miho Miyanaga, Osamu Ueda, and Masashi Ogo. “Oral intake of lingonberry and amla fruit extract improves skin conditions in healthy female subjects: A … Continue reading

ii. It Helps Fade Suntans

Research indicates that amla can inhibit the production of melanin. What is melanin? It is the pigment which gives your skin color. The more melanin you have the darker your skin is. And one study found that the application of a formula containing amla extracts lightened skin in people with hyperpigmented as well as normal skin. This means that amla can be helpful in easing dark spots and sun tans.^[4]Chaudhuri, R., Zoia Lascu, and Germain Puccetti. “Inhibitory effects of Phyllanthus emblica tannins on melanin synthesis.” Cosmetics and toiletries 122, no. 2 (2007): 73-81.

iii. It Fights Sun Damage

Repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause premature skin aging as well as skin cancer. But amla can offer some protection against sun damage. Research indicates that it can offer protection against skin inflammation and cell death caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The antioxidant property of amla is thought to be responsible for this effect. You still need to use a good quality sunscreen when you’re out in the sun though!^[5]Kunchana, Khwandow, Wattanased Jarisarapurin, Linda Chularojmontri, and Suvara K. Wattanapitayakul. “Potential Use of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) Fruit Extract to Protect Skin Keratinocytes … Continue reading

How To Use Amla For Skin

• Apply topically: You can make a face pack with amla powder (2 tablespoons), yogurt (1 tablespoon) and honey (1 teaspoon). Apply it to your face and wash it off once it dries out. You can even blend in amla fruits (remove the stone first) instead of the amla powder if you want.
• Eat: These delicious sour fruits make a great snack; experts suggest having 1 amla fruit a day. Herbal jams like amalaki rasayana and chyawanprash also contain amla. 10 gms of these jams can be taken daily, early in the morning on an empty stomach.

Precautions While Using Amla

• People with bleeding disorders should be cautious while having amla as it can increase your risk of bleeding. It is also advisable to stop having amla 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.^[6]Rao, Theertham Pradyumna, Takayuki Okamoto, Nobuyuki Akita, Tatsuya Hayashi, Naomi Kato-Yasuda, and Koji Suzuki. “Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) extract inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced … Continue reading
• Consuming amla might not be advisable if you’re suffering from an illness caused due to an imbalance in kapha dosha such as coughing.
• Avoid consuming amla juice at night since it is considered to have cold potency.
• Do test any new skin care ingredient that you use on a small patch of skin first to make sure that you do not have an adverse reaction to it.

FAQs

Q: Can We Apply Amla On Skin?

A: Yes, fresh amla paste and amla powder can be applied on your skin. However, it’s typically not applied alone but mixed with ingredients such as yogurt and honey to make a nourishing paste. Do rinse off the face pack once it dries.

Q: Does Amla Tighten Skin?

A: Amla is a good source of vitamin C which helps in the synthesis of the protein collagen. Collagen can help keep your skin firm and reduce dryness and wrinkles.^[7]Borumand, Maryam, and Sara Sibilla. “Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen® reduces visible signs of aging.” Clinical Interventions in Aging 9 (2014): 1747.

Q: Does Amla Pacify Pitta?

A: Amla pacifies all the three doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. But it is especially calming for pitta dosha. Additionally, it rejuvenates the tissues in the body and builds ojas (the essence of youthfulness and immunity).

Q: Can I Take Amla With Milk?

A: Sour foods like amla are considered to be incompatible with milk.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has traditionally been used for its medicinal properties not just in India but also in countries like Egypt, Greece, Japan, and Mexico.^[8]Surjushe, Amar, Resham Vasani, and D. G. Saple. “Aloe vera: a short review.” Indian journal of dermatology 53, no. 4 (2008): 163. In ayurveda, it’s considered to have the qualities of guru (heaviness), snigdha (oiliness or unctuousness), and picchila (stickiness or sliminess). It is thought to balance all the three doshas- vata, pitta, and kapha. How can it benefit your skin?

i. It Helps Tackle Acne

According to a study, the application of aloe vera gel (50%) in combination with the topical retinoid known as tretinoin (0.05%) was much more effective at reducing pimples than the using tretinoin alone.^[9]Hajheydari, Zohreh, Majid Saeedi, Katayoun Morteza-Semnani, and Aida Soltani. “Effect of Aloe vera topical gel combined with tretinoin in treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris: a … Continue reading Research shows that aloe vera can act against bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) associated with the development of acne.^[10]Abiya, S. E., B. O. Odiyi, L. R. Falarunu, and N. U. Abiya. “Antimicrobial activity of three medicinal plants against acne-inducing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes.” Brazilian Journal of … Continue reading

ii. It Helps Fade Suntans

According to research, a compound called aloesin which is present in aloe vera can help reduce melanin. It does this by inhibiting an enzyme known as tyrosinase which plays a role in the production of melanin.^[11]Jones, Ken, Jennifer Hughes, Mei Hong, Q. I. Jia, and Steve Orndorff. “Modulation of melanogenesis by aloesin: a competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase.” Pigment cell research 15, no. 5 … Continue reading This means that aloe vera can be helpful in dealing with sun tans, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.

iii. It Has An Anti-Aging Effect

Aloe vera stimulates cells known as fibroblasts which produce elastin and collagen. Elastic and collagen are proteins which keep the skin elastic, supple, and strong.^[12][Skin].Cleveland Clinic. Aloe vera also helps to soften skin and tighten pores. Studies show that it reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles and has an anti-aging effect.^[13]Surjushe, Amar, Resham Vasani, and D. G. Saple. “Aloe vera: a short review.” Indian journal of dermatology 53, no. 4 (2008): 163.

iv. It Has A Moisturizing Effect

According to research, muco-polysaccharides, amino acids, and zinc and amino acids present in aloe vera help in maintaining the moisture and integrity of skin.^[14]Zhong, Hongyu, Xiang Li, Wanqi Zhang, Xiaoxiao Shen, Yuangang Lu, and Hongli Li. “Efficacy of a New Non-drug Acne Therapy: Aloe Vera Gel Combined With Ultrasound and Soft Mask for the Treatment … Continue reading Ayurveda credits the snigdha, pichilla, and sheeta (cold) properties of ayurveda for its ability to nourish skin and keep it hydrated.

How To Use Aloe Vera For Skin

• Apply aloe vera gel: Break open an aloe vera leaf and scoop out the transparent gel inside. This gel can be applied topically to your skin. You can even heat the gel with turmeric powder for a minute and apply that. Rinse off aloe vera gel after around 10 minutes for best results.

Precautions While Using Amla

• Do test any new skin care ingredient that you use on a small patch of skin first to make sure that you do not have an adverse reaction to it. People who are allergic to plants from the Liliaceae family may be allergic to aloe vera.
• The application of aloe vera may enhance the absorption of steroid creams.^[15] Surjushe, Amar, Resham Vasani, and D. G. Saple. “Aloe vera: a short review.” Indian journal of dermatology 53, no. 4 (2008): 163.

FAQs

Q: Can We Apply Aloe Vera On Our Face Daily?

A: Aloe vera gel can be applied daily to your face; some experts suggest applying it twice a day for best results.

Q: Does Aloe Vera Remove Dark Spots?

A: Yes, aloe vera can help tackle hyperpigmentation and fade dark spots.

Q: Is It Safe To Apply Raw Aloe Vera On Your Face?

A: Raw aloe vera gel, that is, the transparent gel that you get when you break open and aloe vera leaf can be applied on your face. Test it out on a small patch of skin first to make sure that you do not have an adverse reaction to it and rinse it off after around 10 minutes for best results.

Q: Is Aloe Vera Good For The Skin?

A: Yes, aloe vera has an anti-aging and moisturizing effect on skin. It can also help fade suntans and deal with acne.

Q: Can Aloe Vera Lighten Skin?

A: Yes, aloe vera can help reduce melanin and lighten skin.

Q: How Long Should I Leave Aloe Vera On My Face?

A: For best results leave aloe vera gel on your face for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off.

3. Manjistha

Manjistha has traditionally been used to deal with urinary, blood, and skin diseases since it is reputed to be a blood purifier.^[16]Meena, Vandana. “Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)-A helping herb in cure of acne.” Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM) 3, no. 2 (2015): 11-17.] It is considered to mitigate pitta dosha (pittahara) and thought to be useful in dealing with diseases of tissues where pitta is involved such as your eyes and skin.

i. It Helps Tackle Acne

According to research, manjistha works against bacteria such as Propionibacterium acne which contribute to the development of acne. It’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are also beneficial in dealing with acne.^[17]Meena, Vandana. “Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)-A helping herb in cure of acne.” Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM) 3, no. 2 (2015): 11-17.

ii. It Helps Fade Suntans And Dark Spots

Manjistha is another herb that can reduce melanin levels. Research indicates that, like aloe vera, it too inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which plays a role in the production of melanin. So it can help ease hyperpigmentation, dark spots and suntans.^[18]Sharma, Khemchand, Namrata Joshi, and Chinky Goyal. “Critical review of Ayurvedic Varṇya herbs and their tyrosinase inhibition effect.” Ancient Science of life 35, no. 1 (2015): 18. In fact, in ayurveda, manjistha is valued for its ability to improve the complexion (varnakrut).

iii. It Helps Deal With Eczema

Like sea buckthorn, manjistha too can be helpful in dealing with eczema. One study observed that the use of an ointment containing manjistha significantly improved symptoms of eczema in participants.^[19]Maharashtra-India, Pune. “Treatment of Eczema with an Indigenous Drug Manjishtha (Rubia Cordifolia Linn.)-A Preliminary Study.”

How To Use Manjistha For Skin

• Powdered manjistha stems or roots can be mixed with water and applied over pimples or dark spots.
• Manjistha root powder can be mixed with honey and applied to heal injured skin.
• Prepare a face pack with manjistha, turmeric powder, and dried and crushed orange peels to improve your complexion. Rinse off the face pack once it dries.
• Your ayurvedic doctor may recommend polyherbal formulations (such as mahamanjistadi kashya) containing manjistha or decoctions of manjistha and sariva for skin diseases and disorders. Do check with your ayurvedic doctor about dosage and frequency of usage.

Precautions While Using Manjistha

• Do test any new skin care ingredient that you use, including manjistha, on a small patch of skin first to make sure that you do not have an adverse reaction to it.
• Do consult your ayurvedic doctor before taking ayurvedic medicines containing manjistha for any skin disease.

FAQs

Q: What Is The Use Of Manjistha In Ayurveda?

A: Manjistha is considered to be a potent immunity booster that helps the digestive system and alleviates arthritis. The topical application of Manjistha is thought to combat dry skin, rashes, itching and inflammation. It also lightens scars and marks.

Q: Does Manjistha Whiten Skin?

A: Manjistha can reduce melanin and lighten skin. It can therefore be helpful in dealing with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and suntans.

Q: Does Manjistha Cure Acne?

A: Manjistha can be helpful in tackling acne. It acts against bacteria that contribute to the development of acne and also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can be helpful in dealing with this condition.

4. Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn has a long history of medicinal use. Herbalists use it to stimulate the digestive system as well as improve liver and heart health. And sea buckthorn oil is particularly popular as a skin care ingredient.

i. It Helps Moisturize Skin

The outermost layer of our skin- which consists of various lipids (fats) and cells called corneocytes which can soak up moisture – works as a barrier.^[20][Moisturizers: Do they work?].Harvard Health Publishing. And linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) which is present in sea buckthorn oil strengthens the lipid barrier of skin and protects against water loss. Other omega fatty acids such as omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acids), and omega-9 (oleic acid) also help reduce water loss from skin and improve skin hydration.^[21]Zielińska, Aleksandra, and Izabela Nowak. “Abundance of active ingredients in sea-buckthorn oil.” Lipids in health and disease 16, no. 1 (2017): 1-11.

ii. It Has An Anti-Aging Effect

Sea buckthorn oil is known for its anti-aging effects as it has antioxidant properties. Moreover, due to the presence of unsaturated fatty acids such as palmitoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid in sea-buckthorn oil it can help regenerate and repair skin.^[22]Zielińska, Aleksandra, and Izabela Nowak. “Abundance of active ingredients in sea-buckthorn oil.” Lipids in health and disease 16, no. 1 (2017): 1-11. One study found that both consuming and applying sea buckthorn oil had anti-aging effects as it significantly improved skin elasticity and hydration.^[23]Yang, Baoru, Adriana Bonfigli, Valerie Pagani, Tiina Isohanni, Asa von-Knorring, Arimatti Jutila, and Vesa-Pekka Judin. “Effects of oral supplementation and topical application of supercritical … Continue reading

iii. It Helps Deal With Eczema

Eczema or atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, dry skin that oozes a clear fluid when you scratch it.^[24][Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)](Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) | NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases “Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)).National Institutes of Health. One study found that supplementation with sea buckthorn pulp oil significantly improved the condition. The fatty acids present in the oil are thought to be responsible for this effect.^[25]Yang, Baoru, Kirsti O. Kalimo, Leena M. Mattila, Sinikka E. Kallio, Jouko K. Katajisto, Olli J. Peltola, and Heikki P. Kallio. “Effects of dietary supplementation with sea buckthorn (Hippophae … Continue reading

iv. It May Help Protect Against Sun Damage

Overexposure to the sun can result in skin damage due to free radicals. But antioxidants can neutralize free radicals and help prevent damage. Research shows that sea buckthorn oil can stimulate the antioxidant system in skin cells and therefore might have a protective effect against sun damage. Do keep in mind that it’s a good idea to use a high quality sunscreen when you’re out in the sun.^[26][Aging & Painful Skin]. Cleveland Clinic. ^[27]Gęgotek, Agnieszka, Anna Jastrząb, Iwona Jarocka-Karpowicz, Marta Muszyńska, and Elżbieta Skrzydlewska. “The effect of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) seed oil on UV-induced changes … Continue reading

v. It Helps Fade Suntans

One study found that a cream containing sea buckthorn fruit extract was able to reduce the melanin content of skin. Therefore, it can be beneficial in easing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and suntans.^[28]Khan, Barkat Ali, Naveed Akhtar, Tariq Mahmood, Haji M. Shoaib, Mughal Qayum, and Tariq Saeed. “Effects of antioxidants and flavonoids of sea buckthorn on skin whitening and skin … Continue reading

How To Use Sea Buckthorn

• Apply the oil: Apply sea buckthorn oil to your skin to take advantage of the many benefits it offers.
• Eat the fruit: These fruits (or berries) can be eaten fresh or you can have them cooked. They can be used pretty much like other berries in jams, pies, etc.

Precautions While Using Sea Buckthorn

• Sea buckthorn fruits are safe to consume in amounts that are typically used as food.^[29][What Is Sea Buckthorn?](.Verywell Health.
• Do test any new skin care ingredient that you use, including sea buckthorn oil, on a small patch of skin first to make sure that you do not have an adverse reaction to it.

FAQs

Q: Does Sea Buckthorn Brighten Skin?

A: Sea buckthorn fruit extracts can reduce the melanin content of your skin and help brighten it.

Q: Is Sea Buckthorn Good For Wrinkles?

A: Sea buckthorn oil has been found to have anti-aging effects. It can improve skin elasticity and hydration which can help with wrinkles.

Q: Does Sea Buckthorn Help With Scars?

A: Sea buckthorn can help reduce melanin so it might help fade dark spots and scars. However, it might not be useful for pitted or raised scars.

5. Acerola Cherry

Native to South America and the Caribbean, acerola or Barbados cherries are a sweet to tart in flavor. They’re considered to be beneficial for the health of your liver and they help with weight management. As far as your skin goes acerola cherries:

i. It May Help Lighten Skin And Ward Off Suntans

One animal study found that supplementation with acerola berry was effective at suppressing darkening of skin due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation. It is thought to do this by inhibiting genes involved in the production of melanin.^[30]Sato, Yasunori, Eriko Uchida, Hitoshi Aoki, Takayuki Hanamura, Kenichi Nagamine, Hisanori Kato, Takeshi Koizumi, and Akihito Ishigami. “Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) juice intake … Continue reading

ii. It May Help Keep Skin Young And Protect Against Sun Damage

Acerola cherries are very rich in vitamin C. And vitamin C helps provide protection against the damaging effects of sun exposure as it has antioxidant properties. It also stimulates the synthesis of collagen so it might help keep your skin looking young.^[31]Pullar, Juliet M., Anitra C. Carr, and Margreet Vissers. “The roles of vitamin C in skin health.” Nutrients 9, no. 8 (2017): 866. And do keep in mind that a healthy balanced diet plays an important role in keeping your skin healthy.

How To Use Acerola Cherry

• Acerola cherries can be had fresh. You can also add them to smoothies, oatmeal or jams and jellies.

Precautions While Using Acerola Cherry

• Acerola cherries are typically safe to consume but some people may be allergic to them.
• Acerola cherries are a very rich source of vitamin C. One cup (98g) of these cherries can give you 1650mg of vitamin C. The recommended amount of vitamin C per day is 75mg(for women) to 90mg (for men). And the upper limit for adults is 2000 mg.^[32][Vitamin C]. National Institutes of Health. Excess vitamin C can cause stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. And it can worsen iron overload in people with a condition called hemochromatosis.^[33][Barbados Cherry Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits].Verywell Fit.

FAQs

Q: What Other Health Benefits Does Acerola Cherry Have?

A: Acerola cherries are a great source of vitamin C. They may also support the health of your liver and help with weight management.

Q: Is Acerola Cherry Better Than Ascorbic Acid?

A: Research indicates that vitamin C is better absorbed from acerola cherries than synthetic ascorbic acid.^[34]Prakash, Anand, and Revathy Baskaran. “Acerola, an untapped functional superfruit: a review on latest frontiers.” Journal of food science and technology 55, no. 9 (2018): 3373-3384.