Top 10 Unconventional Beauty Ingredients of Ancient India

 

10 Cow dung and urine

Eeks! But it’s true! Since ancient times, the cow has been regarded as a sacred animal in India. Aside from being beneficial in a variety of ways due to the many goods created from it. Cow dung and urine were also used in ancient beauty remedies due to their antibacterial characteristics, which defended against a variety of skin problems. Detoxifying body and face packs, pimple treatment, and cracked heel therapy were all made with them. Ah! What weird journeys people go to appreciate ethereal beauty.

9 Betel Leaves

These leaves were highly prized for their use in traditional religious rites and healing, and they were also an essential component of Indian culture. Without chewing on an equally delectable paan, no post-meal routine or extravagant dinner gathering was believed to be complete (betel leaf). However, because to its detoxifying characteristics, this leaf may be used to treat acne-prone skin, which is a surprise and little-known benefit. It’s no surprise that the Mughal Queens chewed the leaves frequently, as it was undoubtedly a technique for them to obtain their legendary crystal clean complexions.

8 Curry leaves

These spices are widely used in Indian cuisine. They have long been in demand for usage in cosmetic goods, in addition to being renowned for their nutritional value. They were an essential component in skin and hair preparations due to their strong antioxidant content. Whether ingested directly or used externally to hair or face, it works wonders to give your skin that lustrous sheen or your hair that rich sheen. Who says curry leaves are just good for your soul and taste buds?

7 Pearls

What is today a common element in cosmetic products was formerly considered a regal privilege. Their widespread use in jewellery, in addition to their antioxidant capabilities, is well-known. However, they were employed by the upper crust of Indian culture in the form of flower face packs to give the complexion a young shine and soften it. Do we still wonder why the wear and tear of ruling a big kingdom hasn’t had an affect on Indian royalty’s beauty?

6 Sesame

Consider bagels or tahini. But did you know that sesame seeds have a significant role in the ancient discipline of Ayurveda? Which attests to sesame seeds’ collagen-boosting abilities. These seeds used to make great skin lightening face packs when combined with deodar wood and other substances. And we were already planning the next great meal to cook with their enchanted nutty-rich taste!

5 Red lentil flour

Most of us are aware of how beneficial chickpeas are to our health, thanks to their high protein content. But hold on… Did you know that red lentil flour has been used for centuries to soften the skin and prevent hair loss? So, the next time you go to the kitchen to make some traditional red lentil pancakes, save some flour to use in your beauty treatments.

4 Coriander seeds

Since the Indus Valley era, these sweetly scented seeds have been renowned for their antibacterial powers. This explains why they’re so popular for treating pimples, acne, and other skin problems. Apart from that, it was utilised by women in the past to prevent hair loss and encourage new hair growth. Of course, this does not negate its health advantages or ability to enhance the flavour of your favourite recipes.

3 Fenugreek seeds

Whoa! Another often used condiment, particularly in Indian cuisine (see the humble dal!). Did you know they’ve been used as face cleansers and hair rejuvenators since the dawn of time because of their incredible anti-aging properties?

2 Chickpea flour

If you’re a hummus fanatic like me, or can’t live without falafel on your breakfast table, you’ll enjoy this. Chickpea flour has been used for eliminating tans and softening the skin for a very long time. Ayurvedic proponents attest for its efficacy as a hair pack, as well!

1 Turmeric

Finally, a culinary spice that is often used in Indian cooking to enhance the flavour and colour. The turmeric, of course! Yes! Yes, you read that correctly. Antioxidants abound. This substance has been used to erase tan and impart radiance for about 5,000 years, along with skin cleansers like milk or rosewater.