Contemporary Ayurveda

Urban Veda: 15 Basic Ayurvedic Ingredients that boost Immunity & Skin, and Hair

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian holistic healing system, provides a natural and balanced approach to skincare by considering both internal and external factors impacting skin health. It focuses on harmonizing the mind, body, and soul to support overall wellness and glowing skin. Ayurvedic skincare emphasizes natural ingredients like herbs, oils, and extracts. Ayurvedic ingredients are minimally processed to preserve their therapeutic benefits. 

We here endorse and practice the “Urban Veda” concept— a modern, contemporary, and global lifestyle approach to Ayurveda that is minimalistic, emphasizing effectiveness. This approach integrates essential Ayurveda principles customized to the needs of busy individuals.

A vibrant assortment of Ayurvedic herbs, roots, and supplements, showcasing a blend of traditional natural remedies and modern wellness capsules.

Consulting a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner before use of any ingredient or Ayurvedic recipe is highly recommended, especially for those with existing health conditions or on medications.

Listed below are the benefits of many ingredients that we combine and use regularly in our handcrafted products at The Hayagriva Spa for skin & hair care, for various therapeutic purposes, and for boosting immunity. While many ingredients offer overlapping benefits, it is advisable to select the right ingredients and customize your self-care routine and nutritional intake according to your Dosha. We will discuss Doshas in more detail in our upcoming blogs.

Amla

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, offers benefits for skin, hair, and health. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, it fights pollution, reduces oxidative stress, and may slow signs of aging. Amla exfoliates skin, promotes brightness, and supports collagen for elasticity. It improves scalp blood flow, strengthens hair roots, and reduces breakage, making hair softer and shinier. Consuming Amla lowers the risk of chronic diseases, boosts immunity, enhances digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar. It's also a good source of calcium for healthy bones and can be eaten fresh or pickled, as juice, powder, or used in recipes and skincare. 

Arnica

Arnica, sourced from the Arnica Montana plant, has been traditionally used to help with pain relief, reduce swelling, and manage bruises. It is commonly applied to ease muscle pain and stiffness resulting from minor injuries, overexertion, or falls. Some studies indicate that arnica might be effective in alleviating pain, possibly decreasing the need for opioid medications. The herbal remedy contains helenalin and thymol, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may enhance its effectiveness. It is important to avoid applying arnica on broken skin. We advise using Arnica topical application only.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, is known for its potential to enhance skin and hair health. As an adaptogen, it helps the body manage stress, which benefits skin, and has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin, aiding conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. It also helps lock in moisture and strengthen the skin's barrier. By lowering cortisol, it may prevent stress-related hair loss and improve blood circulation to nourish hair follicles, possibly encouraging growth and keratin production. Additionally, Ashwagandha can reduce stress hormones, promote better sleep by boosting melatonin, and increase muscle strength, making it popular among athletes. Its benefits can come from topical use or oral supplements, but consistent use over weeks or months is necessary for noticeable results.

Brahmi

Brahmi, also known as Bacopa Monnieri, is a potent herb in Ayurvedic medicine, beneficial for hair and skin. It promotes hair growth, reduces hair fall, strengthens strands, and improves scalp health by nourishing follicles and boosting circulation. Brahmi also helps prevent split ends, enhances shine, and maintains scalp moisture. For skin, it reduces eczema, psoriasis, acne, and allergies through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It promotes cell regeneration, collagen production, and speeds wound healing, reducing scars, pigmentation, dark circles, and puffiness for brighter skin. It may help with stretch marks by increasing collagen. Brahmi can be applied as oil or powder in masks or pastes. While Ashwagandha is better for stress, Brahmi boosts memory and cognitive function.

Ghee

In Ayurveda, ghee (clarified butter) is highly valued for skin, hair, and overall health. Rich in vitamins A, D, E, K, and essential fatty acids, it nourishes and moisturizes, penetrating deep to hydrate and protect skin. Ghee's antioxidants promote a healthy glow and prevent damage. Used in preparations like Thikthaka Ghritam and Shata Dhauta Ghritam, it supports physical and mental well-being, stimulating digestion, lubricating the digestive tract, and boosting Ojas, the essence of vitality and immunity.

Ginger

In Ayurveda, ginger is known as the “Universal Medicine.” It is highly regarded as an excellent digestive aid, essential for proper digestion, nutrient distribution, and absorption. Ginger boosts digestive enzyme activity and enhances gut motility, promoting a healthy digestive system. It is also helpful in treating coughs, colds, and respiratory conditions like asthma. Rich in compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, ginger has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it beneficial for conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and menstrual cramps. Ayurvedic diets aimed at reducing inflammation often include ginger as a key ingredient. Studies indicate that ginger may lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, ginger may enhance concentration, focus, and overall cognitive function. Since good gut health is fundamental to brain health, incorporating ginger into the diet supports overall well-being.

Harad

Harad is a highly valued herb in Ayurveda, often called the "King of Medicines" because of its many claimed health benefits. It is considered "tridoshic," which suggests it helps balance all three fundamental energies or doshas that influence bodily functions in Ayurveda. We will discuss Doshas in more detail in our upcoming blogs. Rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin C, flavonoids, and tannins, Harad can boost the immune system and defend against infections. Its properties are thought to benefit skin health, possibly reducing acne, blemishes, and pigmentation. Additionally, Harad is believed to have astringent and antimicrobial qualities that promote clearer, healthier skin.

Honey

Ayurveda regards honey as a potent healing and wellness aid with many health advantages. It functions as a natural detoxifier, helping eliminate toxins and purify the blood. Honey alleviates coughs, colds, and congestion through its demulcent qualities, which soothe and coat irritated tissues. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects support quicker recovery of wounds, cuts, and burns. Ayurveda advocates using raw, unprocessed honey to preserve its full medicinal benefits and enzymes. For skin, honey offers moisturizing, healing, and anti-inflammatory benefits, and may also assist with acne, scar fading, and skin brightening. Its natural enzymes serve as gentle exfoliants, and antioxidants defend against environmental stress. As a natural humectant, honey attracts and locks in moisture, maintaining skin hydration. It can be used as a mild cleanser to remove impurities without removing natural oils. Skin care products containing honey are especially recommended for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

Jatamansi

Jatamansi is a key herb in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicinal system. It has been utilized for centuries in various formulations and is recognized for its therapeutic effects, especially in treating nervous system and skin conditions. Due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant qualities, Jatamansi offers numerous benefits for skin and hair health. Its ability to fight bacteria and microbes can help reduce acne and diminish blemishes. Additionally, it is thought to enhance blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and promoting hair growth.

Kumkumadi Tailam

Kumkumadi tailam, an Ayurvedic oil, offers many skin benefits, including brightening, smoothing the skin and tone, reducing blemishes, scars, fine lines, and wrinkles, and promoting a youthful glow. It also helps fade dark spots and pigmentation, offers sun protection, and provides deep overnight hydration. Made from pure saffron, sandalwood, licorice (Mulethi), and manjistha in sesame oil, it is recommended for nightly use as a face serum for either cleansing or for moisturizing the face after a hot towel.

Moringa

Moringa powder is applied topically to the face to prevent wrinkles and skin damage caused by environmental pollutants. It helps tighten facial skin and reduces wrinkles and blemishes, resulting in a more youthful and supple appearance. Moringa shots, usually made from powdered moringa leaves, provide a concentrated source of nutrients and beneficial compounds (vitamins like A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, fiber, amino acids, and magnesium) that support overall health. These benefits include reducing inflammation, enhancing brain and liver health, and boosting energy levels.

Mulethi

Mulethi has anti-inflammatory properties that are great for bone health. The bronchodilator and expectorant qualities of the root provide great ease in symptoms of asthma and also relieve cough, cold, sore throat, and bronchitis. Combined with other ingredients, Mulethi can help prevent or ease symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and respiratory and digestive issues.

Turmeric

Turmeric benefits skin with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce acne, dark circles, and signs of aging, and improving skin tone. It kills bacteria, calms inflammation, and prevents pimples. Curcumin, in turmeric, offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects, reducing inflammation, protecting against UV, and aiding wound healing and skin conditions like psoriasis and acne.

Neem

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a prized herb in Ayurveda, renowned for its powerful detoxifying, purifying, and balancing effects. Often called a “curer of all ailments” in Ayurvedic texts, Neem is especially valued for cleansing the blood of toxins and impurities. Dubbed the “Queen of Skin,” it is notable for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it effective for skin concerns like breakouts, sensitive skin, and acne.

Facewashes with Neem and salicylic acid, as well as neem powder masks, come highly recommended. When combined with Tretinoin, Neem can significantly reduce blemishes and acne scars, and it also treats foot fungus effectively when paired with Tea Tree oil.

Neem’s oil and leaf extracts nourish skin, reduce irritation & redness, and may slow aging. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities also help fight cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath in toothpastes.

Additionally, Neem’s antiparasitic properties target intestinal worms and parasites. It supports a healthy gut microbiome and maintains balance on epithelial surfaces such as the skin lining the digestive and respiratory tracts.

Bhringraj

Bhringraj is well known for its ability to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. It is believed to enhance blood circulation in the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and strengthening hair from the roots.

Its antifungal and antibacterial qualities help fight dandruff and scalp infections, soothe an itchy scalp, and decrease flakiness. Bhringraj oil deeply conditions the hair, locking in moisture, smoothing cuticles, and restoring shine. It supplies essential nutrients like vitamins E and D, iron, and magnesium, which fortify hair follicles and prevent breakage. By reducing inflammation and balancing oil production, Bhringraj helps maintain a healthy scalp environment, essential for strong hair growth.

Additionally, it is thought to enhance skin radiance and even out skin tone through skin regeneration and collagen production, resulting in softer, firmer skin. Its antimicrobial properties can help combat bacteria responsible for acne and blemishes, leading to clearer skin.

Bhringraj also has hepatoprotective properties, aiding liver protection, supporting detoxification, bile production, and managing liver disorders. It is believed to stimulate appetite and improve digestion and metabolism, alleviating issues like indigestion, constipation, and bloating by stimulating digestive enzymes and bile.

In Ayurveda, Bhringraj is regarded as a nervine tonic with a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially reducing stress, improving mental clarity, and supporting restful sleep. Its rejuvenative property can boost immunity and vitality with regular use.

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