EVERY MORNING, USE ACNOLEPA ACNE FIGHTING FORMULA

This 100% Natural & Ayurvedic Face Pack is crafted with a blend of Manjishtha, Khas, Patanga, Aloe Vera and other powerful ingredients that offer a holistic approach to skincare, gently nurturing your skin without harsh chemicals and unwanted additives.

Unlike harsh scrubs, sensitising chemical exfoliators, and face masks full of actives, Acnolepa works differently! It contains acne-fighting herbs and ingredients that are also soothing and calming for the skin. Acnolepa helps absorb the excess gunk out of the pores without over-drying, sensitising and irritating the skin.

Simply apply this face pack, allowing it to pour its herbaceous goodness into the skin before gently scrubbing away to reveal a smoother awe-worthy complexion.

FOLLOW UP WITH SAFRANYAM SAFFRON-LIGHT FACIAL-HALO FACE OIL

A Signature Blend of Precious Saffron + Rose + Turmeric and 16 Powerful Ayurvedic Ingredients.

Safranyam is a natural light-weight face oil that melts in like butter and disappears into the skin. This signature blend of red gold (Kesar), Precious Rose and the golden spice (Turmeric) is intensely effective, non-greasy, considerate of the modern climate and skin intolerances and is suitable for all skin types.

This daytime beauty elixir par excellence comes with nutritive nourishing herbs that are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so that you do not miss out on the season’s firsts or hide behind high coverage makeup!

While you may know that Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice ever, what makes it priceless though is its uplifting aromatic appeal and skin and health-boosting benefits described in Classical Ayurvedic texts 'Bhavprakash' and ‘Astanga Hridaya’ that talk at length about Saffron’s properties that include:

• Complexion enhancing
• Vata, Pitta and Kapha balancing
• Astanga Hridaya even advises the use of saffron in dry and cold months due to its uber-nourishing and soothing properties

Did you also know that according to this study, Saffron offers natural UV protection?
The effects of saffron as a natural sunscreen and moisturiser were established and showed that in equal concentrations, saffron lotion could act as a better antisolar agent compared to homosalate.*

It also has skin brightening potential.**  In addition to this, Saffron is also rich in Vitamin B2, B3, B6 and works wonders for brightening the skin. In two clinical studies, its anti-pruritic (anti-itching) and complexion promotion effects have been established.***

It also contains more than 150 carotenoid compounds including safranal, zeaxanthin, lycopene and various α- and β-carotenes along with a rich source of riboflavin.****

It also has antioxidant potential and helps prevent oxidative damage.*****  It also promotes wound healing by increasing re-epithelialization.******

Pharmacological Properties: Antianxiety, antioxidant, wound healing. Anti-tyrosinase, muscles relaxant, anti-inflammatory, analgesics.*******

*[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3862060/]
**(Sariri R, Sabbaghzadeh R, Poumohamad F. In-vitro antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase activity of methanol extracts from Crocus sativus flowers. Pharmacologyonline. 2011;3:1–11.)
***(Moshiri M, Vahabzadeh M, Hosseinzadeh H. Clinical applications of saffron (Crocus sativus) and its constituents: A review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2008;9:15–31.) 
****(Abdullaev FI. (Crocus sativus L.). Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2002 Jan; 227(1):20-5.), (BHAT JV, BROKER R. Riboflavine and thiamine contents of saffron, Crocus sativus linn. Nature. 1953 Sep 19; 172(4377):544.) 
*****(Galvano F, La Fauci L, Lazzarino G, Fogliano V, Ritieni A, Ciappellano S, Battistini NC, Tavazzi B, Galvano G. Cyanidins: metabolism and biological properties. J Nutr Biochem. 2004 Jan; 15(1):2-11.) 
******(Khorasani G, Hosseinimehr SJ, Zamani P, Ghasemi M and Ahmadi A. The effect of saffron (Crocus sativus) extract for healing of second-degree burn wounds in rats. Keio J Med 2008; 57 (4): 190-195).
*******(Al-Sanfi AE. The pharmacology of Crocus sativus- a review. IOSR Journal of Pharmacy. 2016; 6(3). 08-38.) 

It is called Kanchani (who gives glow/ or gives shine like gold), Varvarnini (who improves the skin tone), Yoshitapriya (It is liked by ladies).

It has properties like Varnya (improves skin complexion) and Twaka Dosha har (protect from skin ailments).

It pacifies Kapha and Pitta Doshas, reduces inflammation (Shotha), and promotes healing (Vranapaha).*

Fun Fact: Because of its proposed antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, it can be used for the treatment of acne. What’s best, turmeric is also known to improve skin firmness.**
Another study revealed that Turmeric regulates excessive sebum secretion in persons suffering from acne and related problems.***
It is effective in treating skin-aging induced by sun exposure, increased thickness, and reduction in elasticity of skin, skin injury and other problems.**** And that’s not all, Turmeric too has natural UV protective effect according to this study that concludes curcumin to be a potential agent for preventing radiation-induced acute inflammation and photoaging.*****

Pharmacological Properties: Antibacterial, Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, lower lipid peroxidation, antivenom, anti-allergic, antidermatophytic, hepatoprotective.******

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Verse No. 196-7).
**(Vaughn, A. R., Branum, A., & Sivamani, R. K. (2016). Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence. Phytotherapy Research, 30(8), 1243–1264. doi:10.1002/ptr.5640)
***(Zaman SU, Akhtar N. Effect of Turmeric (Curcuma longa Zingiberaceae) Extract Cream on Human Skin Sebum Secretion. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research October 2013; 12 (5): 665-669 )
****[Sumiyoshi M & Kimura Y. Effects of a turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) on chronic ultraviolet B irradiation-induced skin damage in melanin-possessing hairless mice. Phytomedicine. 2009 Dec;16(12):1137-43. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2009.06.003. Epub 2009 Jul 4.]
*****[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27514487]
******(Araújo CAC, Leon LL. Biological activities of Curcuma longa L. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Vol. 96(5): 723-728, July 2001), (Krup V, Prakash LH, Harini A (2013) Pharmacological Activities of Turmeric (Curcuma longa linn): A Review. J Homeop Ayurv Med 2:133. doi: 10.4172/2167-1206.1000133)

Often called the ‘Queen of Flowers’, rose brings energising aroma and skin-clarifying properties to Safranyam. According to traditional Ayurvedic texts:

• Rose is a complexion enhancer
• Is cooling and balancing
• Its application enhances beauty or Varna

3 drops of Safranyam reveal the aromatic and skintastic strength of rose layer by layer. Rose helps in:

• Calming your skin woes and your senses
• Helping in Facial cleansing
• Offering skin soothing effects
• Brightening and revitalising

Did you know sesame oil is mentioned as the best of all the oils in Ayurveda text? Sesame oil gives stability, strength, lightness in body, improves complexion, improves skin health, promotes healing in all types of wounds and strains and pacifies Vata dosha.*

Fun Fact: It exhibits antioxidant activity, and its application lowers the severity of pain as it is anti-inflammatory and protects the skin from UV radiation.**

Sesame Oil is also deemed safe for use as a cosmetic ingredient.***
Topical sesame oil also protects the skin from UV radiation.****

* [Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Tail Varga, Verse no. 2-7]
**(Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 27;19(1):70. doi: 10.3390/ijms19010070. PMID: 29280987; PMCID: PMC5796020.)
***(Anonymous. Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Sesame Oil. Journal of the American College of Toxicology Volume 12, Number 3,1993).
****[Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 27;19[1]:70. doi: 10.3390/ijms19010070. PMID: 29280987; PMCID: PMC5796020.] 

According to Ayurvedic text Charaka Samhita Sutrasthan, Cow milk is of cooling potency. It is soft and unctuous having similar properties with Ojus. Milk possesses identical properties to Ojus and is conducive to the promotion of Ojus. Cow milk is described to be an elixir par excellence (Rasayana).

• Milk acts as a fat- and water-soluble media for the active principles of herbs. Milk has been used in Ayurvedic oil formulations as it enhances the quality of the herbs, the pungency of the herbs is lowered so that it becomes more suitable for application.
• The bovine milk proteins and protein derivatives detailed in this report are described by the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (Dictionary) to function mainly as skin and hair conditioning agents in personal care products.*

*https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/mlkpro042017tent.pdf

It is used in disease related to Pitta Dosha and also in eye diseases so called as Nayanoshadha or Akshibhaishajya. It has beautiful yellow color flowers, so also called Hemapushpa and pacifies Kapha and Pitta Dosha, prevent the ailments related to blood tissue, reduces inflammation (Shothahrit), eliminates toxins (Vishavidhvansana).*

Fun Fact: Lodhra is credited with cleansing and soothing properties, and hence is used in various skin ailments. Salireposides isolated from its extract has well documented activity against acne producing bacteria. It has also been reported to show 6.60% mean tyrosinase inhibitory activity, and thus is useful as a mild skin care herb.  Its Antiacne effect and antibacterial potential has been reported.**

Pharmacological Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound healing activity, antiandrogenic, antimicrobial.***

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Verse No. 188-189), (Dhanvantri Nighantu, Chandanadi Varga, Verse No. 183-4).
**(Devmurari, V.P., 2010. Phytochemical screening study and antibacterial evaluation of Symplocos racemosa Roxb. Arch. Applied Sci. Res., 2: 354-359.) 
***(Acharya N, Acharya S, Shah U, Shah R & Hingorani L. A comprehensive analysis on Symplocos racemosa Roxb.: Traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016 Apr 2;181:236-51. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.01.043. 

In Sanskrit it is called Musta, means the herb which eliminate the group of diseases and balances Pitta and Kapha Dosha, antilithiatic or antimicrobial (Jantuhrit).*

Interestingly, it has UV protective effect: Did you know a study concluded that herbal plants are rich source of secondary metabolites & hydroxy and free radical scavenging potential and shows antioxidant nature of the extracts against UV induced oxidative stress and mediated photo damage. **

Pharmacological Properties: Antiandrogenic, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, antidiarrheal, antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, antimalarial, antimutagenic, antiobesity, antioxidant, anti-uropathogenic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and nootropic agent.***

*(Bhavprakash Nighantu, Karpooradi Varga, Verse no. 92-4)
**[http://www.ijrap.net/admin/php/uploads/1315_pdf.pdf]
***(Peerzada, A. M., Ali, H. H., Naeem, M., Latif, M., Bukhari, A. H., & Tanveer, A. (2015). Cyperus rotundus L.: Traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 174, 540–560. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2015.08.012)

This herb is loved for its pleasant odour, so it is called “ushira”and “Samgandhik” in Sanskrit. Both the names talk about the pleasant and attractive odour of the herb. In Ayurvedic text it is categorized under Varnya category. Varnya means the drugs which promotes the complexion of skin. It protects skin from various ailments. It pacifies the Pitta and Kapha Doshas. It is also helpful in the healing of wounds.*

It replenishes moisture in dry and dehydrated skin and has rejuvenating effect on mature skin. It prevents stretch marks of pregnant women if applied regularly. It uplifting characteristic helps in reducing stress, tension and anxiety.**

Fun Fact: It has a rich green-woody earthy and nut- like fragrance, because of which it is used in perfumery and in aroma therapy to balance the activity of the sebaceous oil glands.

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpooradi Varga, Verse no. 86-88)
**(Lavania, U.C. 2003a. Vetiver Root – Oil and Its Utilization. PRVN Tech. Bull. No. 2003/1, ORDPB, Bangkok.), (Chomchalow N., Chapman K. Other uses and utilization of vetiver; Proceedings of the 3rd Conference of Vetiver and Exhibition; Guangzhou, China. 2003; [(accessed on 10 October 2003)]. pp. 6–9. http://prvn.rdpb.go.th/files/7-01.pdf.)

In Sanskrit it is called as Manjishtha, meaning a herb which purifies the blood and improves skin tone. It improves skin complexion (Varnakrit), eliminate toxins (Vishahar), reduces inflammation (Shothahar), promotes healing (Vrana-ropana), prevent skin ailments (Kushta-Visarpahar). (Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Haritakyadi Vaga, Verse No. 188-91). It is also mentioned in the groups Varnya (group of herbs, which promote skin complexion) and Vishaghna (group of herbs, eliminate toxins).*

In a study it was concluded that extract of Rubia cordifolia has potential to inhibit the tyrosinase activity and act as skin brightening agent.**

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-acne (inhibit proliferation of P. acne), Antioxidant, Immunomodulatory, Antistress, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, Antiallergic.***

*(Agnivesa, charaka samhita. Commentary: Vidyotini by Kasinatha Sastri and Gorakha Natha Chaturvedi, sutrasthan volume-I, chapter-4, verse no 16. chaukhambha Bharati Academy Varanasi; 2011:83, 92.)
**(Vaibhav S, Lakshaman K. Tyrosinase enzyme inhibitory activity of selected Indian herbs. Int J Res Pharm Biomed Sci. 2012;3:977–82).
***(Bhatt P & Kushwah AS. Rubia cordifolia Overview International Journal of Drug Development & Research. 2013. 5 (2). 47-54).

A powerful skin protectant,  liquorice has anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting effects. Liquorice extract also has demonstrated efficacy in treating atopic dermatitis, an - allergy-related, intensely itchy swelling of the skin. Glycyrrhizin, the main component of liquorice root, protects against UV-B light induced damage in the context of human melanoma cells.

An extract of liquorice called glabridin reduces inflammation resulting from UV light exposure. In fact, when a liquorice extract rich in glabridin was applied to the skin before exposure to UV light, it helped prevent the redness and pigmentation that would normally have occurred.

Liquorice extract also reduces melanin synthesis, suggesting that it may have applications in preventing and fading unsightly “age spots,” or areas of hyper-pigmented skin. The depigmentation property of liquorice is due to its ability to inhibit the tyrosinase activity of melanocytes.*

Interstingly, Yashitmadhu is found to have significant effect on melanogenesis used in sun care. **

*[http://pharmacologyonline.silae.it/files/newsletter/2009/vol3/27.%20Singh.pdf]
**[Yokota T. Nishio H, Kubota T & Muzycchi M,The inhibitory effect of glabridin from licorice extracts on melanogenesis & inflammation. Pig cell res ,1998 11355-361] 

You’d agree why Ayurveda calls it Surbhi Gandha- because of its amazing aroma. It gives lightness (Laghu), warmness (Ushna), pacifies Kapha and Vata Dosha, eliminates toxins (Vishapaham), improves skin complexions (Varnya), eliminates Bad smells.*

It is a rich source of phenols and flavonoids minimizing the photo‐damaging effects and improves the skin imperfections.**

Fun Fact: It possesses potent anti-tyrosinase activities that may be a good source of skin-brightening agent.***

Pharmacological Properties: Antibacterial, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory.****

*(Raj Nighantu, Pippalyadi Varga, Verse No. 173-175), (Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpooradi Varga, Verse No. 58, 61-62)
**(Arshad W, Khan HMS, Akhtar N & Nawaz M. Assessment of changes in biophysical parameters by dermocosmetic emulgel loaded with Cinnamomum tamala extract: A split‐faced and placebo‐controlled study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2019. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13198).
***(Chang CT, et al. Chemical composition and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of Cinnamomum cassia essential oil. BotStud. 2013;54(1):10
****(Mehta S, Purohit VK, Andola HC (2014) Pharmacological Activities of Cinnamomum tamala Nees & Eberm. and Medical Implication: A Review. Med Aromat Plants 3: 174. doi: 10.4172/2167-0412.1000174)

• Its wood gives a sweet odour, so it is called Padmaka. It pacifies the Pitta and Kapha Doshas. It has sheetal (give cooling effect), dahahar (cure burning sensation), Vranapranuta (wound healing activity).*
• It has protective effect on the skin and has antioxidant potential as it is a rich source of flavonoids compounds and phenolic acids.** It also showed anti-inflammatory activities in a human clinical study.***
• It may also protect skin from oxidative damage and promote and inhibit skin tanning.****

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, enhance sleep quality, skin care and promoting, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial*****

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpooradi Varga, Verse no. 30-31)
**[Mauricio E, Rosado C, Lanza DD. Study the potential applicability of the by-products of the Prunus cerasus in promoting health and skin care. Biomed Biopharm Res 2013;2:266-7.]
***[Kelley DS, Adkins Y, Laugero KD. A Review of the Health Benefits of Cherries. Nutrients. 2018 Mar 17;10[3]:368. doi: 10.3390/nu10030368. PMID: 29562604; PMCID: PMC5872786.]
****[Cásedas G, Les F, Gómez-Serranillos MP, Smith C, López V. Bioactive and functional properties of sour cherry juice [Prunus cerasus]. Food Funct. 2016 Nov 9;7[11]:4675-4682.]
*****[Ahmad I, Shamsi S & Zaman R. A review on sour cherry [Prunus cerasus]: A high value Unani medicinal fruit. International Journal of Green Pharmacy. 2017. 11[1]. 1-6.]

It is born in water [Varija, Pankaja, Pankeruha]. It has many petals, also called as Shatapatra, Sahasrapatra., called Arvind because of having circular petals. Its properties are Sheetala [Cooling activity], Varnya [promotes complexion], pacifies Kapha and Pitta Dosha and protect from several skin disease [Visphota, Visarpa].*

Did you know, in a study it shows protection against ultraviolet B irradiation on skin and prevents the loss of skin moisture, mitigating the formation of abnormal keratinocytes and inhibits protein peroxidation?** It also contains anti-aging agent that has beneficial effect to reduce symptoms like loss of elasticity, acne, pores, wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, and so forth. A suitable vehicle possesses the formulations which has potent antiaging agent. It promotes younger looking skin.***

*[Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Pushpa Varga, Verse no. 1-3]
**[Kim SY, Moon GS. Photoprotective Effect of Lotus [Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.] Seed Tea against UVB Irradiation. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2015 Sep;20[3]:162-8. doi: 10.3746/pnf.2015.20.3.162. Epub 2015 Sep 30. PMID: 26451352; PMCID: PMC4596341.]
***[P. A. Riley and T. Babcock, “Methods utilizing compositions containing sacred lotus [methyltransferase] to treat aging skin,” US Patent 5925348, 1999.]

• Pushkar means, which nourishes the body. Its leaves look similar to lotus, so it is also called Padmapatra. It pacifies the Vata and Kapha Doshas. It is (Anti Inflammatory).*
• Antioxidant activity of Inula racemosa has been reported in a study that helps reduce oxidative stress status.** It also protects skin from various infectants.***

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Verse no. 174-5)
**(S Salil, A Bhupinder, A Basheer. Antioxidant Properties Of Inula Racemosa, A Traditional Herbal Medicine. The Internet Journal of Pharmacology. 2012 Volume 10 Number 1.)
***(Lokhande PD, Gawai KR, Kadam KM & Kuchekar BS. Antibacterial activity of isolated constituents and extract of roots of Inula racemosa. Research Journal of Medicinal Plant, 1 (1): 7-12)

• It is called Kanchani (who gives glow/ or gives shine like gold), Varvarnini (who improves the skin tone), Yoshitapriya (It is liked by ladies).
• It has properties like Varnya (improves skin complexion) and Twaka Dosha har (protect from skin ailments). It pacifies Kapha and Pitta Doshas, reduces inflammation (Shotha), prevents disease related to blood tissue (Rakta Vikarahara) and promotes healing (Vranapaha).*

Pharmacological Properties: Antibacterial, Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, lower lipid peroxidation, antivenom, anti-allergic, antidermatophytic, hepatoprotective.**

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Verse No. 196-7).
**(Araújo CAC, Leon LL. Biological activities of Curcuma longa L. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Vol. 96(5): 723-728, July 2001), (Krup V, Prakash LH, Harini A (2013) Pharmacological Activities of Turmeric (Curcuma longa linn): A Review. J Homeop Ayurv Med 2:133. doi: 10.4172/2167-1206.1000133)

NAGAKESHAR

(Cobra's Saffron) 

(Mesua ferrea)

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Stamen

Benefits: Skin-health booster

Palash

(Flame of the forest) 

(Butea monosperma)

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Flower

Benefits: Anti-inflammatory

Priyangu

(Beauty Berry) 

(Callicarpa macrophylla)

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Fruit

Benefits: Natural Coolant, Anti-toxins

Nyagrodha

(Vad Sal) 

(Banyan Tree) 

(Ficus benghalensis)

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Aerial Root

Benefits: Complexion Booster, Natural skin-healer

Musta

(Nagarmotha) 

(Nut grass) 

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Rhizome

Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, Balances Pitta and Kapha Dosha

Vacha

(Sweet Flag) 

(Acorus calamus)

Type: 100% Natural

Part Used: Rhizome

Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant

Sappan wood, also known as Ku-chandana, due to the similarity in qualities and usage is known for its coolant, anti-acne, anti-bacterial and antioxidant activity.

Also called Brazilin, it is considered sufficiently potent for use as an anti-acne agent. Based on screening experiments, methanolic and 50% ethanolic extracts of CS wood showed inhibition of P. acnes growth, lipase inhibitory activity, and antioxidant activity.*

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-acne activity

*https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764515000541?via%3Dihub

Known as ‘Chandan’ in Sanskrit, Sandalwood pacifies Kapha & Pitta Doshas and promotes the skin’s complexion (Varnya).

Essential oil of Sandalwood has biological activities as anti-microbial and anti-proliferative agent. It is also useful in skin problems like acne, eczema, common warts and other skin ailments.*

Sandalwood plant's paste is often used to cleanse wounds, acne, sunburn and treat inflammation. The plant is used in various Ayurvedic cosmetics formulations like cream, soap, lotion and face wash because of the presence of its hydrating properties.

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-bacterial activity, antifungal activity, antioxidant activity

*https://www.researchgate.net/publication/352069182_SANDALWOOD_SANTALUM_ALBUM_ANCIENT_TREE_WITH_SIGNIFICANT_MEDICINAL_BENEFITS

Neem leaves are good for health, help to prevent and cure skin infections. Neem balances Pitta Dosha, is a natural detoxifier, prevents occurrence of various skin diseases.

It is known to inhibit bacterial growth, so it can protect the skin from the occurrence of Acne-like conditions (Anti-acne)*. Quercetin and ß-sitosterol were first polyphenolic flavonoids purified from fresh leaves of neem and were known to have antifungal and antibacterial activities. Studies reveal that Neem also offers free radical scavenging properties due to its rich source of antioxidants.

Pharmacological Properties: Antioxidant, prevents skin diseases, skin repair effect, antibacterial, antiacne, antifungal, prevent and cure skin ailments

*Tembe-Fokunang, E. A., Charles, F., Kaba, N., Donatien, G., Michael, A., & Bonaventure, N. (2019). The Potential Pharmacological and Medicinal Properties of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) in the Drug Development of Phytomedicine. Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research, 7(1), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.9734/jocamr/2019/v7i130093

This herb is loved for its pleasant odour, so it is called “ushira”and “Samgandhik” in Sanskrit. Both the names talk about the pleasant and attractive odour of the herb. In Ayurvedic text it is categorized under Varnya category. Varnya means the drugs which promotes the complexion of skin. It protects skin from various ailments.* It pacifies the Pitta and Kapha Doshas.

It replenishes moisture in dry and dehydrated skin and has rejuvenating effect on mature skin.

FUN FACT: It has a rich green-woody earthy and nut- like fragrance, because of which it is used in perfumery and in aroma therapy to balance the activity of the sebaceous oil glands.

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, cooling-effect, anti-acne

*(Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpooradi Varga, Verse no. 86-88)

It is called Kanchani (that gives glow/ or gives shine like gold), Varvarnini (that improves the skin tone), Yoshitapriya (It is liked by ladies).

It has properties like Varnya (improves skin complexion) and Twaka Dosha har (protect from skin ailments). It also pacifies Kapha and Pitta Doshas.

Because of its proposed antimicrobial effect, it can be used for the treatment of acne. A study revealed that Turmeric regulates excessive sebum secretion in persons suffering from acne and related problems.*

Pharmacological Properties: Antibacterial, antioxidant

*Zaman SU, Akhtar N. Effect of Turmeric (Curcuma longa Zingiberaceae) Extract Cream on Human Skin Sebum Secretion. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research October 2013; 12 (5): 665-669)

Manjishtha is known to purify blood and improve skin complexion (Varnakrit). It is also mentioned in the groups Varnya (group of herbs, which promote skin complexion).

In a study it was concluded that extract of Rubia cordifolia has potential to inhibit the tyrosinase activity and act as skin brightening agent.*

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-acne (inhibit proliferation of P. acne), antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-bacterial

*Bhatt P & Kushwah AS. Rubia cordifolia Overview International Journal of Drug Development & Research. 2013. 5 (2). 47-54

While you may know that Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice ever, what makes it priceless though is its uplifting aromatic appeal and skin and health-boosting benefits described in Classical Ayurvedic texts 'Bhavprakash' and ‘Astanga Hridaya’ that talk at length about Saffron’s properties that include:

• Complexion enhancing
• Vata, Pitta and Kapha balancing

Astanga Hridaya even advises the use of saffron in dry and cold months due to its uber-nourishing and soothing properties

It also has skin brightening potential.*  In addition to this, Saffron is also rich in Vitamin B2, B3, B6 and works wonders for brightening the skin. In two clinical studies, its anti-pruritic (anti-itching) and complexion promotion effects have been established.**

Pharmacological Properties: Anti-acne, antioxidant

*(Sariri R, Sabbaghzadeh R, Poumohamad F. In-vitro antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase activity of methanol extracts from Crocus sativus flowers. Pharmacologyonline. 2011;3:1–11.)
**(Moshiri M, Vahabzadeh M, Hosseinzadeh H. Clinical applications of saffron (Crocus sativus) and its constituents: A review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2008;9:15–31.) 

Camphor

(Cinnamomum camphora)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Kaphapittavishahara, Surbhi, Daugandhyanashaka

Pharmacological Properties:

Anti-itching & anti-irritating property, cooling effect

Musabbar

(Aloe Vera)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Kaphahara, Granthiagnidagdhavisphotahara, pittaraktatwagrogahara

Pharmacological Properties:

Removes wrinkles, moisturising effect, antiseptic effect, anti-acne

Jayaphala

(Myristica fragrans)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Maladaugandhyanashanah, Kriminuta

Pharmacological Properties:

Antioxidant activity, anti-microbial activity, anti-bacterial activity

Javitri

(Myristica fragrans)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Varnakrita, Kaphakrimivishapaha

Pharmacological Properties:

Antioxidant activity, anti-microbial activity, anti-bacterial activity

Padmaka

(Prunus cerasoides)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Sheetal, Varnya, Kandughna

Pharmacological Properties:

Refridgement effect, remove blemishes and fine lines, anti-itching activity

Tulsi

(Ocimum sanctum)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Krimighna, Durgandhanashana, Charmarognashaka

Pharmacological Properties:

Anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal

Brihad Ela

(Amomum subulatum)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Shleshmapittasrakandupaha, Durgandhanashana

Pharmacological Properties:

Anti-bacterial

Balsudha

(Purified Borax)

Ayurvedic Properties:

Kaphavishleshaka, Visarpakanduhara

Pharmacological Properties:

Anti-bacterial