Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
by Dr Deepak Acharya and Dr Garima Sancheti(more info) listed in skincare, originally published in issue 131 - January 2007
Blooming Sunflower India has one of the oldest and richest cultural traditions associated with the use of traditional folk herbs. It brings into practice application of indigenous beliefs, knowledge and skills in favour of human health. Treatment of various ailments via herbs is the oldest form of healthcare known to all cultures throughout the history. Various parts of herbs, like the stems, leaves, roots, flowers and fruits, are used to cure health and skin disorders. In this age of growing medical costs and side-effects, people are turning to herbs, the natural medicines. Herbs are on menu cards of folks conscious of their regular diets. People prefer green herbs, not only because of their low fatty oil content, which is for good health, but also to maintain and restore their vibrant beauty. Herbs are a real boon for all creatures living on this planet called Earth. Man has been using herbs for thousands of years, and learnt about their aromatic, therapeutic and savory properties through trial and error. According to the tribes of Patalkot, in Central India, there is no single herb that is useless. This is indeed true; there isnt any culture on earth that does not include the use of herbs as medicines. Herbs play a major role in beauty aids as well as therapies.
This article looks at the ten most important Indian medicinal plants used in beauty care. Information has not only been gathered from recent literature, or prior art search, but also includes some uncommon herbal practices performed by the tribes of Patalkot.
readily on contact with the skin and disperses evenly. It may be used for dryness to assist moisturization after exposure to the sun and other harsh elements. The film formed on the skin by butter retains moisture and restores the skins softness and suppleness; therefore, it is used as an ingredient in skin care products, lotions, massage creams and hair and sun care products.[7] Mango butter also reduces degeneration of skin cells and restores elasticity. Semi-liquid mango oil is used in conditioners and shampoos for improved combing and a healthy shine to hair.
rebuilding. It acts as a cleansing agent to remove dirt, dust and makeup from the skin. Allicin (Onion extract) works wonders on scars, calluses, stretchmarks and other skin hardening, and scar tissue. The sulphur compound in allium reduces excessive sebum secretion and cleanse the hair of dandruff. It also aids the formation of scar tissue on wounds, thus speeding up the healing process, and has been used as a cosmetic to remove freckles. Onion juice rubbed into the skin is said to promote hair growth, and works as a remedy for baldness. It is also used in cosmetic for the treatment of freckles.[18,19]
complexion and remove blemishes; Regular bath with Basil and Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, boiled in water, keeps skin healthy and glowing. It also prevents skin infections and allergies; Aloe vera is a reputed natural moisturizer. Topical application of Aloe gel on the skin and hair improves their texture; Turmeric (Curcuma longa) along with Sandalwood powder purifies skin and improves the complexion; Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) juice acts as a natural astringent when applied on the skin. It helps close open pores and reduces skin eruptions. Herbal formulations by tribes of Patalkot in Central India: Author Deepak Acharya has worked extensively among the Gonds and Bharia tribes of Patalkot in Central India. He has documented their indigenous practices and prepared a digital library of the same. Below are a couple of not so common practices for beauty care and a glowing look: Nut Grass (Cyperus rotundus) root (one tbsp), Gulancha (Tinospora cordifolia) stem (two tbsp), Neem (Azadirachta indica) bark (two tbsp), Chebulic Myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) fruits (one tbsp), Turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome (one tbsp), Beleric Myrobalan (Terminalia bellirica) fruits (one tbsp), Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) fruits (one tbsp), Indian Pennywort (Centella asiatica) leaves (one tbsp) are mixed together to create a powder. About one tablespoon of powder is then taken with water twice a day, after lunch and dinner. This formulation is useful against various other skin problems as well; Powder of Ginger (Zinziber officinale) rhizome (one tbsp), Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera) roots (two tbsp), Chebulic Myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) fruits (one tbsp) and Lemon (Citrus limon) peel (one tbsp). This formulation is taken once a day early in the morning. It activates the circulation of blood and tones the body.
Conclusion
Herbs have played an integral part in the development of modern civilization. However, the slow, but certainly effective, herbal action in beauty remedies has suffered badly in preference for fast-acting synthetic cosmetics of the modern world. Fortunately, people are becoming conscious of the long-term side-effects of synthetic products, and herbs are once again staging a dramatic comeback. The success stories on the use of herbs have raised them to the top of the popularity graph. As a result, in the recent years, the cosmetics
industry has started focusing on the use of herbs, and is conducting extensive research on plant materials and their combinations in their various products. No doubt, these miracle plants of therapeutic and medicinal value have, once again, won the faith of people round the world. world. It is now time for you to make them a part of your life and enjoy the benefits gifted you by Mother Nature.