Ayurvedic Treatment For The Face

Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient healing system that originated in India, derives its name from the Sanskrit phrase "science of life." Its goal is to integrate and balance body, mind and spirit through the use of herbs, diet and massage. Ayurvedic medicine features various therapies for complexion problems such as blemishes, wrinkles and dark spots. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that scientific evidence for the effectiveness of Ayurvedic techniques is not conclusive. Before using herbal remedies, consult your doctor.

Haritaki for Acne

Haritaki, botanically known as Terminalia chebula, is an evergreen tree indigenous to India, with small, ribbed fruits that are revered in Ayurveda for their healing qualities. Herbtime.com says that haritaki pacifies all three doshas, or body systems, and is traditionally used to treat hepatitis, rheumatism, and skin diseases. Many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend haritaki for acne.

Acne occurs when excessive skin oils and dead skin cells block the hair follicles. Acne is not a bacterial infection, but bacteria growing in the blocked follicles worsen the condition by causing inflammation. Drugs.com, which provides peer-reviewed information to consumers, credits haritaki with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and states it has inhibitory actions against such common pathogens as S. aureus, \salmonella typhi, E. coli and candida. Ask your doctor before using haritaki for acne.

Research

Although human clinical trials are lacking, there is some scientific research supporting the belief in haritaki's antibacterial properties. In a clinical study conducted by Y. Sato and colleagues and published in the April 1997 issue of "Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin," researchers found that an extract of haritaki fruit had potent antibacterial properties, even inhibiting the growth of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA in vitro.

Aloe Vera Gel for Wrinkles

Aloe vera gel has a long history in Ayurveda, as well as other healing systems, of use for its skin-soothing effects. Botanically known as as Aloe barbadensis, the aloe is an attractive ornamental plant native to Africa. Drugs.com notes that aloe contains polysaccharide glucomannan, which has an emollient effect. Ayurveda Herbal Remedy advises fresh aloe vera gel for wrinkles and signs of aging. The gel's emollient qualities can help moisturize skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Apply a small amount to your wrist 24 hours before use to make sure you're not allergic.

Almonds, Milk and Lemon for Dark Spots

Dark areas on the skin, otherwise known as hyperpigmentation or melasma, usually results from excessive sun exposure. Avurveda Herbal Remedy recommends grinding five almonds and mixing them with a 1 tsp. of fresh cream and a few drops of lemon juice, then applying the paste to face and neck and leaving on for 15 minutes. According to Cosmetics Info, the lactic acid in milk and cream contains alpha hydroxy acids, which can help lighten skin tones; the citric acid in lemon juice is an alpha hydroxy acid as well. Test the mixture on your wrist 24 hours before use to make sure you're not allergic to the ingredients.

Research

There is some scientific research supporting the use of lactic acid on photoaged--or sun-damaged--skin. In a clinical study conducted by M.J. Stiller and published in the June 1996 issue of "Archives of Dermatology," researchers found that a lactic acid cream significantly reduced hyperpigmentation due to photoaging in the skin of women aged 40 to 70.