April 6, 2025

Ayurveda - Not only medicine but also rituals of BEAUTY

Ayurveda is more than just a method of treatment – ​​it is a philosophy of life full of balance and natural self-care. Imagine your morning starting with a cup of warm water with ginger and lemon, a moment of meditation and a few deep breaths before you set off on your daily duties. Sounds soothing? This is the quintessence of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian art of living that is increasingly making its way under our western roofs. Just a few years ago, the word Ayurveda seemed exotic and a bit mysterious to me – today, it is associated with inner harmony, natural care and small rituals that can make your day more pleasant. In this post, I will take you on a journey through the world of Ayurveda: you will learn what it really is, how you can draw from its wisdom every day, and especially – how to use its secrets in beauty care. I will also tell you about my favorite cosmetics inspired by Ayurveda. Sit comfortably with a cup of your favorite tea and immerse yourself with me in this oriental, herbal-scented world. What is Ayurveda? Ayurveda (from Sanskrit ayur – life, veda – knowledge) is literally “knowledge of life” – a system of natural medicine originating in India, over 5,000 years old. It is often called the mother of medicine , because many modern methods of treatment draw on its assumptions. Although it was born in ancient India, today Ayurveda is practiced in many Asian countries, and thanks to official recognition by the World Health Organization, its popularity is also growing in Europe, including Poland. Unlike Western medicine focused on the symptoms of diseases, Ayurveda treats man holistically – as a unity of body, mind and spirit, living in an inseparable relationship with the surrounding nature. The central concept of Ayurveda is balance. According to this philosophy, each of us has a unique combination of three life energies, called doshas : Vata (related to the elements of air and space), Pitta (fire and water) and Kapha (water and earth). They determine our predispositions - both in terms of health, character traits and appearance. When the doshas are in harmony, we feel good and radiate health; when one dominates or is weakened, ailments appear. Ayurveda therefore strives to restore this natural balance through appropriate diet, herbal medicine, yoga, massages and a range of daily practices. Philosophy of body and soul balance In Ayurveda, taking care of health is not about immediate symptom treatment, but a lifestyle based on prevention and harmony. The ancient masters of Ayurveda already claimed that prevention is better than cure , and our skin, mood and energy every day are a reflection of the internal state of the entire organism. Therefore, the Ayurvedic daily routine - called dinacharya - includes simple rituals that support balance. These include: getting up early with the sun, drinking warm herbal water to start the day, practicing yoga or stretching, breathing techniques, meditation and Abhyanga – self-massage with warm oil. Such a full-body massage with nourishing sesame or almond oil is not only a way to moisturize the skin, but also to soothe the nervous system. I try to do a quick face massage with oil every evening – thanks to this, I feel that the stress of the whole day literally flows away with the oil, and the skin looks more rested in the morning. Ayurveda also teaches us to be mindful of what we eat and how we digest our emotions. According to this teaching, digestion (metabolism, called agni ) is the sacred fire of life – our immunity, energy level and skin condition depend on it. That is why it is so important to eat meals adapted to our dosha and the season, use healing spices (turmeric, ginger, cardamom) and celebrate food in peace. I have noticed that since I introduced several Ayurvedic dietary recommendations – for example, I limited very cold drinks and tried to eat regularly at fixed times – my digestive system works better and my skin rebels less against surprises. It is amazing how everything in our body is connected! Ayurveda in daily care The philosophy of "life in balance" also translates into the approach to beauty care. According to Ayurveda, external beauty is a reflection of our internal health and well-being. Radiant skin begins on a plate and in a calm mind - a healthy diet, adequate sleep and reduced stress are the foundation for skin to look young and fresh. However, Ayurveda also offers a treasure trove of natural methods of direct body care. For thousands of years, Hindu women have used the wealth of herbs and oils in their beautifying rituals. Traditionally, ubtans are used to cleanse the face – pastes made of chickpea flour, milk and herbs that gently wash and exfoliate the epidermis. Turmeric and honey masks that brighten the complexion are popular, as are baths with the addition of rose petals and milk to make the skin soft as silk. Oils play a huge role in Ayurveda: coconut, sesame and almond oil are used for hair and body to nourish and strengthen. To this day, women in India rub warm oil into their hair a few hours before washing – this is the secret to their shiny, thick tresses. I myself adopted this custom and created hair oils based on Ayurvedic formulas. An important element of Ayurvedic care is also panchakarma – a comprehensive body cleansing, which includes, among others, cleansing the entire body, massages with oils and herbal steam sessions, aimed at removing toxins from the body. Of course, full, traditional panchakarma is something that is best experienced under the supervision of specialists in Ayurvedic spas, but we can introduce some of its elements ourselves at home – for example, regular use of the sauna or steam baths for the skin. Natural cosmetics inspired by Ayurveda More and more people around the world are convinced of what has been known for centuries: nature really knows how to take care of our beauty. It is no wonder that cosmetics inspired by Ayurveda are gaining popularity - they combine the wisdom of tradition with a modern approach to care. Such products are based on plant ingredients, herbal extracts and oils, which Ayurveda has long valued for their effectiveness and safety. The quality of these ingredients is key: ideally, they should come from clean, organic crops, be harvested at the right time and processed to retain maximum properties. In the recipes of Ayurvedic creams or oils, we will not find additives considered harmful - silicones, parabens, artificial dyes or aggressive detergents. Thanks to this, the skin receives the best of what nature has to offer, without unnecessary chemicals. What is so special about Ayurvedic beauty elixirs? First of all, the wealth of herbs and plants with proven cosmetic effects. For example, turmeric – the golden queen of spices – is a strong antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory effects. No wonder it is added to anti-imperfection creams. Scientists confirm that applying turmeric to the skin helps reduce acne and other dermatological problems. Studies have also shown that turmeric applied topically fights inflammation and bacteria, which explains its effectiveness in irritations or pimples. Another Ayurvedic treasure is neem – it has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, which is why it is used in India as a remedy for skin problems, from acne to dandruff. In creams and toners, it acts as a natural cleanser and soothing agent. Amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in vitamin C – so it is a great anti-aging ingredient, supports collagen production and adds radiance to the skin. Gotu kola (Asian pennywort), in turn, is famous for accelerating regeneration – the extract from this plant firms the skin, helps heal minor changes and improves its elasticity. Ayurveda also uses the benefits of plants such as sandalwood (it has antiseptic and soothing properties, while giving cosmetics a beautiful, relaxing aroma) or saffron (the most expensive spice in the world, valued for its skin brightening and skin tone evening properties). By using cosmetics based on these ingredients, we gain not only specific care effects, but also the pleasure of using them. Natural aromas of herbs and oils can have an aromatherapeutic effect - turning an ordinary shower or evening cream application into a small spa ritual. Anyone who has ever tried massaging a few drops of fragrant sandalwood oil into the skin of the face knows how wonderfully calming this moment is. And best of all, knowing that the recipes of these cosmetics are based on centuries of experience, we can have confidence in them. Orientana – a Polish brand with an Ayurvedic soul When we talk about Ayurveda in cosmetics, it is impossible not to mention my brand, which pioneered this philosophy on the Polish market. Orientana is a domestic company that has been creating natural cosmetics inspired by Asian recipes for years. I don't know if you know, but I am its founder. I fell in love with India and its culture while traveling, deciding to share this wealth with Polish clients. Ayurveda accompanies me in life and work. Today, we produce Orientana products mainly in Poland, and some in a small factory in India. Interestingly, the factory surrounded by small plantations grows plants used for the production of cosmetics. Fresh leaves, flowers and fruits go straight to extraction, thanks to which the obtained active substances retain their maximum strength. The entire process is supervised by an Ayurvedic doctor who uses old, proven recipes used in India for hundreds of years, and our technologist, together with me, sometimes modernizes some of the recipes. Each Orientana cream or oil is therefore the result of combining modern laboratories with the wisdom of tradition - such an alchemy of the East and the West enclosed in a jar. From the beginning, I have focused on the purity of formulas. Some of the cosmetics are 100% natural, and all of them have a high concentration of natural ingredients. They have never been tested on animals, and the compositions do not contain any controversial additives. Instead – high-quality cold-pressed oils, extracts from exotic herbs and fruits, and natural butters. Thanks to this, care with these products is gentle, yet effective and in line with the spirit of Ayurveda. I felt the difference myself when 14 years ago I replaced a drugstore balm full of chemicals with Orientana body butter with shea butter and herbs: my skin "breathed" and regained softness, and I fell in love with this oriental scent that envelops me with every use. Which Orientana cosmetics are worth paying special attention to? My absolute love is facial oils – especially the one with sandalwood and turmeric. This is a real beauty serum in a bottle – perfectly moisturizes, nourishes the skin and soothes irritations. Turmeric in the composition helps fight imperfections, and sandalwood calms the senses with its warm aroma. Applying it in the evening, to slightly damp skin of the face, has become my favorite ritual - in the morning the complexion is rested and radiant, as after a good night's sleep. Orientana also offers a face oil with Japanese rose and saffron - ideal for dry and dull skin, because saffron beautifully brightens, and rose oil deeply moisturizes and regenerates. These two oils are real gems, which I can boldly call elixirs of youth. When it comes to hair care , Ayurveda is our guide. Our famous Ayurvedic Amla and Bhringraj hair oil contains, among others, amla extract, centella asiatica (gotu kola) and neem - herbs that have been used in India for centuries to grow and strengthen hair. Combined with coconut and sesame oil, they create a nourishing bomb for the scalp. I use this oil as a mask before washing - I rub it into the scalp and spread the residue along the length of the hair, leave it for an hour or two, and then wash it with a gentle shampoo. The effect? ​​The hair is shiny, elastic, falls out less and smells wonderfully of herbs. It's like a hair spa in the comfort of your home. We have also become famous for our innovative formulas, such as breast oil (a great alternative to balms and creams, natural and effective) or high-quality hair henna . You can feel passion and authenticity in each of these products – this is not another mass “natural” brand, but the result of true love for oriental care. Ayurveda taught me that taking care of yourself is a beautiful journey, not a chore to check off. By introducing small rituals and reaching for the treasures of nature, we can feel the difference not only in the appearance of our skin or hair, but above all in our well-being. A morning cup of herbal tea, an evening face massage with aromatic oil, oiling the scalp once a week - these small pleasures make us stop for a moment in the daily rush and do something good for ourselves. And our body repays us with a healthy glow. I hope this post has inspired you to delve into the secrets of Ayurveda and perhaps try Ayurvedic methods in your routine. Whether you treat yourself to a fragrant massage oil, start drinking golden milk with turmeric at bedtime, or simply smile wider when looking in the mirror – remember that the key is balance and living in harmony with yourself. Ayurveda is harmony, naturalness and mindfulness of yourself. Try it and you will see that ancient wisdom can fit perfectly into your modern lifestyle. Anna Wasilewska - creator of the Orientana brand

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November 8, 2024

Hair Growth Oil: Which One to Choose and How to Use It?

More and more people are opting for natural hair care methods. In this context , hair growth oil is gaining popularity. Both women and men notice that oils can not only support hair growth, but also improve its overall condition. A properly selected hair growth oil accelerates hair growth, strengthens hair follicles, and gives hair shine. The choice depends on individual needs and hair type. It does not matter whether it is women's or men's hair. Among the most recommended and very popular you will find: Rosemary oil, Castor oil, Coconut oil, Sesame oil. What stimulates hair growth? In our kitchen or medicine cabinet we can find products that make hair grow like crazy. These are oils obtained from plant extracts: castor oil, grape seed oil, olive oil. The price of the oil does not matter when you reach for cooking oil. Why does hair grow after oil massage and what does oil hair care give? There is a stimulation of blood circulation in the scalp, which is crucial if we want to accelerate hair growth. Regular use nourishes the hair follicles, which leads to healthier and stronger hair growth. It is a natural solution for people who struggle with the problem of hair loss. It is not only a way to make your hair grow faster, but also to improve it in general. For example, hair growth oil improves the moisture of the scalp. Oiling nourishes the hair, strengthens the hair, regenerates it and gives the hair shine. It also helps fight skin problems such as dandruff or irritation, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Thanks to its natural ingredients, it is a safe alternative to synthetic hair care products, making it an ideal choice for those looking for more ecological and healthy solutions. How does hair growth oil work? How to choose the right hair growth oil to achieve the desired results. Each of them has unique properties that can be adapted to the individual needs of the hair and scalp. Therefore, it is worth knowing their effects to choose the one that best meets our expectations. Rosemary oil is one of the most popular oils for hair growth, mainly due to its ability to improve blood circulation in the scalp, inhibiting hair loss. This hair growth oil can also be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia Castor oil is also a hit among people looking for natural ways to strengthen their hair. It is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which makes it an excellent nourishment for hair follicles and regulates the sebaceous glands. It helps to regenerate and strengthen hair. Coconut oil is known to deeply moisturize hair. It penetrates the hair structure, moisturizing and strengthening, which helps prevent breakage. It is an ideal solution for people with damaged hair, as it improves its elasticity and overall condition. Sesame oil is a great choice if you want intensive hydration and hair regeneration. Known from traditional Ayurvedic care, it strengthens hair follicles and is especially recommended for people with dark hair, as it can slightly darken it. Its strong hydrating properties make hair more elastic, which reduces its susceptibility to damage. Jojoba oil is a real treasure for people struggling with dandruff. The properties of the oil include deep moisturizing and softening of the hair. This makes it ideal for both hair and scalp care. Almond oil is light and gives hair a natural shine and prevents it from drying out. Its delicate formula does not weigh down the hair, making it ideal for everyday care. Additionally, almond oil effectively fights dandruff, making it a versatile choice for those who want to take care of the health and beauty of their hair. Extracts from Indian plants that strengthen hair follicles Indian plants such as neem , amla , bhringaraj, brahmi and gotu kola have been valued for centuries for their hair follicle strengthening properties. These natural ingredients, widely used in Ayurvedic care, not only nourish but also stimulate hair, supporting its healthy growth. Thanks to this, they help maintain strong, healthy hair, which is especially important for people struggling with excessive hair loss. These are true treasures of nature. Neem is a plant with powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it an ideal choice for scalp care. Neem effectively combats dandruff and also soothes irritations that can negatively affect the condition of the hair. By improving the health of the scalp, it also supports hair growth. That is why a good hair growth oil should have neem in its composition. Amla ( Emblica Officinalis) rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, is a true ally in the fight against hair loss. Its ability to strengthen hair follicles and give hair shine makes it often used in Ayurvedic preparations. Amla not only supports hair growth, but also improves its overall condition, making it an irreplaceable ingredient in natural hair care. Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba) is a plant that nourishes hair and prevents hair loss. It also has a beneficial effect on the scalp, improving its condition, which is crucial for healthy hair growth. Eclipta Alba is often used in oils and rubs, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural ways to strengthen hair. Gotu kola (Asian pennywort) helps to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which can help to nourish hair follicles. This is why pennywort is often used in natural hair care products, supporting healthy hair growth and improving overall condition. Its positive effect on blood circulation makes it a valuable ingredient in combating hair loss. Which Orientana hair growth oil to choose? It depends primarily on your individual needs and hair type. The key is the natural composition and properties of the individual ingredients. These are also hair oils for men. That is why it is worth taking a moment to thoroughly understand their effects and choose the one that best meets your expectations. By using Orientana hair oils, you will improve the condition of your scalp. You will find many comments online about how this Orientana cosmetic stopped hair loss, improved hair structure, and gave hair silky softness. You can find a hair oil store here . Ayurvedic Hair Therapy Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) Ayurvedic Hair Therapy is a cosmetic that stimulates hair growth. Centella asiatica, known for its stimulating and nourishing properties, is an excellent ally in the fight against excessive hair loss. The ingredients of the therapy are similar to the Indian sesa hair oil. It is more than just a cosmetic - it is a real treatment for your hair. This hair growth oil will take you to a new level of care. Ayurvedic Amla Bhringraj Hair Oil Ayurvedic hair oil with extracts of Emblica Officinalis and Eclipta Alba is a unique combination of two exceptional ingredients: amla and bhringraj . The composition also includes sesame oil. This oil accelerates hair growth, strengthens hair, gives hair shine, Regular use can improve hair structure, give it a healthy look and beautiful shine. It is not only care, but a real investment in the health of your hair. How to oil your hair, how much oil to use? Oiling your hair is not only a way to improve its appearance, but it is also a ritual that strengthens hair follicles, provides proper hydration to the scalp, reduces itching of the scalp, and prevents hair loss . Regular oiling can bring visible results. The use of hair oil works well when regularity is key. The right selection of products for individual needs also plays a key role. Using hair oils is a process that should be adapted to your individual needs and hair type, regularity is key . However, always wash your hair with a gentle shampoo afterwards I apply the hair growth oil directly to the scalp or to the palm of my hand and massage it into the skin with my fingers, focusing on the hair follicles. Massage to improve blood circulation. Massage the residue into the hair. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight. Finally, wash your hair with shampoo. Washing your hair will remove the residue that the skin and hair have not absorbed. The frequency of oiling depends on the condition of your hair. Damaged hair may require more frequent oiling, even several times a week. Healthy hair : oiling once a week is enough to keep it in good condition. The most important thing is to observe how your hair reacts to oiling and adjust the frequency to its current needs. Every hair is different , so it is worth experimenting to achieve the best results. Regular massages can contribute to faster and healthier hair growth. Hair growth oil is a natural ally in the fight against excessive hair loss. How Hair Growth Oil Works on Scalp Problems Scalp problems such as dandruff , itching or excessive oiliness can be really annoying. What's worse, they can negatively affect the condition of the hair, weakening it and causing it to fall out. That's why proper scalp care is absolutely crucial. One of the natural ways to improve its condition is to use well-chosen oils. These natural substances not only alleviate the symptoms, but also support the health of the skin, which is essential for proper hair growth. It is important that the choice is tailored to the specific skin problems in order to get the best results. Hair growth oil has an amazing ability to deeply moisturize and nourish the scalp, which significantly improves its condition. Regular use of oils can support healthy hair growth, because well-hydrated skin is less prone to irritation and other problems. For example , jojoba oil or coconut oil can effectively help fight skin problems, making hair stronger and healthier. Remember that scalp care is not only about appearance, but above all, the health of your hair. Scalp problems that can be solved with this natural product include dandruff . Tea tree oil works on it, which, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, is an ideal choice in the fight against dandruff and irritation. Peppermint oil can bring relief when the skin is itchy and we suffer from the so-called itching. Properly selected, they can help regulate sebum secretion, which reduces the oiliness of the scalp. Choosing an oil for hair growth is not difficult. You just need to know your needs and read the labels of oils in the store carefully.

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