AYURVEDIC SKIN CARE THROUGH THE AGES
Natural Ayurvedic skin care dates back as far as the Aryan period BCE, when groups of Indo-Aryan natives migrated into Northwestern regions of India, and with them came ancient beautification secrets. Elaborate drawings of women adorned in beautiful garments can be found in ancient caves, displaying the use of cosmetics and what is believed to be scents of Jasmine, Sandalwood and Rose. Early rituals of skin rejuvenation depict herbal preparations using Turmeric, Saffron and Nettle Leaves.
One of the earliest surviving Ayurvedic texts dating back to the year 500 AD, Ashtanga Hridaya, provides herbal formulations for facial treatments that can be used at the end of each season in order to cleanse the accumulation of toxins before the next season begins. This practice restores balance to the skin and prevents the buildup of ama, or toxins, beneath the skin’s surface, which will eventually lead to premature aging and deterioration of healthy skin if left untreated.
SKIN AS THE GATEKEEPER
Ayurveda describes the skin as the largest organ of the body, since it is a major channel of absorption and secretion. The skin indirectly affects all bodily systems due to the constant flow of energy and fluids absorbed and secreted through it. The skin absorbs every ingredient we place on it including oils, lotions, compresses and salves. Once absorbed, these substances are broken down by the body to be filtered through the bloodstream and nourish all cells of the body.
Likewise, we can eliminate toxins through the skin by way of healthy and unclogged sweat glands. Our skin is the physical shield of defense between one’s inner world and the outer world, and is one of the body’s major gateways between what comes in and what comes out. Since the skin is a major guardhouse for what is permitted to enter the body, we realize the all-important role our skin has in keeping us healthy. It is a remarkable realization that one can affect health in a positive way by refining one’s skin care regimen.
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