Ageing is an inevitable; it involves the changes in a person with physical, psychological, mental and social change. Wrinkled skin, greying hair and macular degeneration are a few symptoms of ageing.
Rasayana (rejuvenation) is a branch of Ayurveda that deals with ageing and its effects. As ageing is a degenerative and palliative phase and process, Rasayana checks its pace and impact substantially, resulting in slow down. Rasayana treatment is advised to people who are 35 years old and more.
Holy basil or Tulsi
Excessive UV exposure damages your skin and causes collagen depletion. Collagen is the compound that maintains the elasticity of your skin. In a study, researchers found that topical application of basil helped in retaining skin moisture levels, reduced skin roughness and scaling, prevented wrinkles, and made the skin smooth.
Basil for Anti-Aging benefits
You Will Need
- 1 cup holy basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon gram flour
- 1 teaspoon honey
Method
- Soak the basil leaves in warm water to soften them and make a paste.
- Mix it with gram flour and honey.
- Apply it to your face and let it dry.
- Wash with lukewarm water.
Guggula
Guggula is a very powerful herb that is extracted from the Mukul Myrrh tree. A study found that Guggula could prevent wrinkles (5). It is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the effect of the harmful free radicals.
You Will Need
- 1 teaspoon Guggula powder
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or shea butter)
Method
- Mix the powder with the oil or butter.
- Massage the mixture on your face (use it as a night cream).
- Let it stay on overnight.
- Wash it off the next day.
Horsetail
Also called shave grass or mare’s tail, this perennial herb contains natural silicon that can give you youthful and glowing skin. Horsetail contains flavonoids, vitamins E and C, carotenoids, and coenzyme Q10 that improve the collagen levels in your skin, neutralize the harmful free radicals, and enhance the skin firmness.
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon chopped horsetail shoot
- 3 tablespoons raw honey
Method
- Warm the honey and mix the horsetail shoot in it.
- Store it for 2-3 days and then strain the honey.
- Consume a tablespoon of the strain twice a day.
Turmeric
A bright yellow spice helps to ward off several kinds of irritation that can lead to degenerative disease, and it’s also believed to lessen oxidative stress. Turmeric may also protect your tissues from damage, which can help prevent visible signs of aging like wrinkles and scars.
Turmeric possesses both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory problems and is widely used to treat wounds. Research also suggests turmeric may help ward off colon cancer and Alzheimer.
Start by consuming 1 tsp of turmeric (either as it is or add in vegetables) every day. Also, applying a face mask can have faster results. Turmeric helps to reduce the excess oil on skin as it regulates the production of sebum. This reduced oil will then stop any blemishes to occur and keep the dirt away, thus, keeping the skin clean and clear. For oily skin, turmeric mixed with sandalwood and orange juice can be an effective face mask. For dry skin, it can be combined with olive oil, lemon juice and rose water to get a nourished skin.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng or winter cherry is an extremely popular herb used for its medicinal properties. It is loaded with alkaloids that protect the cells (including skin cells) from oxidative stress and damage. This keeps your skin healthy and the signs of aging at bay.
You Need
- ½ teaspoon ashwagandha powder
- ½ teaspoon dried ginger powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (diluted)
Method
- Mix all the ingredients and make a paste.
- Add a bit of water if it is too thick.
- Apply it all over your face and let it dry.
- Wash it off with water.
Remember when it comes to combating aging, the best approach is adopting a healthy lifestyle. That means regular physical activity, quality sleep, and packing your diet full of healthy foods.