From decluttering to smudging and decorating with chakra colors, we’ve explored many ways to cleanse outer surroundings on our blog. Here we focus on going within and cleansing the body with Ayurvedic herbs.
According to Ayurveda, or Ancient Indian Medicine, our natural state is health and happiness. For over 5,000 years, this system of medicine has offered wisdom and science to help maintain a healthy balance between the mind, body, and environment. Incorporate these 5 cleansing Ayurvedic herbs into your self-care routine to radiate well-being, health, and beauty inside out.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful herb that is scientifically proven to improve cell health, reduce inflammation, combat fatigue, fight bacterial and fungal infections, and treat many skin problems. Highlighting the beautifying benefits of this Ayurvedic herb, Indian brides routinely apply a paste of turmeric and fresh milk to the face and skin before marriage.
Turmeric can be taken internally in the form of fresh turmeric roots or powder. Many health food stores also sell turmeric capsules as supplements. Use turmeric to spice up your meals or make a daily Golden Milk Latte to get its beautifying and healing benefits.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs. It is classed as an adaptogen and mostly used for its ability to help treat anxiety and stress. It relaxes the mind, reduces stress, and helps build up a tolerance to stressful situations. Translating to “strength of a stallion,” Ashwagandha is also known to improve energy, increase vitality, combat aging, and lower inflammation. Reap its benefits by adding Ashwagandha powder to your coffee, smoothies, morning yogurt, tea, or even soups.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is most known for its divine scent, however, it also comes with many other benefits. This herb can treat excessive sweating, inflammation, eruptive skin diseases and relieve fever and burns. Sandalwood can be used externally as an oil or paste, and it is often added to lotions or soaps for its cleansing, calming and hydrating benefits. As an incense, Sandalwood is said to clarify the mind and it’s a great aid for your daily meditations!
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a wonderful cactus-like herb that is known as the miracle plant in Ayurveda. It is rich in minerals and vitamins A, B, C, and E; amino acids for protein building; enzymes used in the digestive system; and plant hormones which carry anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and various healing actions.
Externally, aloe vera heals, protects, and moisturizes the skin. When taken internally, it helps control blood sugar, increases energy production, promotes cardiovascular health, and aids digestion.
Neem
Neem is another Ayurvedic wonder-herb that is being increasingly used in modern Western cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic remedies as an antiseptic to fight viruses, and it is said to be one of the most powerful blood purifiers and detoxifiers. Neem comes from the neem tree and can be used in the form of bark, leaf, and seed oil:
Neem bark is traditionally used to clean the teeth by simply snapping off a twig and chewing on it. Here in the west, you can find it as an ingredient in natural toothpaste.
Neem leaf, on the other hand, is available as supplements or powder that can be added to salads, smoothies, soups, and hot drinks.
Neem oil can be applied to the skin, scalp, hair, nails, teeth, and gums for maintaining optimal health.
