Dr. Akanksha Chauhan, Prof (Dr.) Ruby Rani Agarwal
Vol. 8, Jul-Dec 2019
Abstract:
The Cosmetic approach in Ayurveda, related to the healthy status of the body as well as the mind. More precisely, it can be said that physical, mental and spiritual beauty as a combined unit for the Cosmetic sense of Ayurveda. Skin is the aashaya of Ras dhatu. Ayurveda determined beauty by prakriti, sara, sanhanan, pramana. In today’s era, beauty is very much essential to be one in thousand faces. Lifestyle factors such as unhealthy food choices, stress or environment have effect on internal and external beauty.Acharaya Charak has classified cosmetic drugs as Varnya, Kustaghna, Kandughna, Vayasthapak, Udardaprasamana etc. and many alepam are described in Susruta Samhita and Astanga Hridaya. Some medicinal plants like – Haridra, Manjistha, Sariva, Chandana, Amalaki, Ghritkumari, Babul, lavanga, shikakai, Ritha, bhringaraj etc. has been prescribed for beautification of skin, hair and eyes. Diet has a special role to improve and maintain beauty of an individual. The Ama is act as a toxin and Sodhana/panchkarma is the best therapeutic intervention to eliminate the body toxins. The use of chemical – based products is increasing in the market for beautification which has many side effects on skin in future. So, people should be encouraged for Ayurvedic formulation described by Archayas as it is herbal and safe for the skin.