Inspirations
NEEM COSMETICS - FOR WHOM?
WHAT IS NEEM? The neem tree (Azadirachta indica), also known as the Indian lilac, is a highly valued Asian plant that is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and increasingly in cosmetology. Its leaves, flowers, fruit, seeds and bark are used to produce skin and hair care cosmetics. The seeds of this tree are particularly valuable, as they produce oil rich in vitamins C and E and unsaturated fatty acids. In Ayurvedic and traditional medicine, neem has been used for centuries due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. HOW DOES NEEM AFFECT THE SKIN? Phytochemical composition and biological activity Neem contains numerous bioactive compounds, such as azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbidol, salicylic acid, flavonoids, triterpenoids and fatty acids. These substances are responsible for the broad spectrum of neem's action at the cellular and tissue level. Their synergistic action affects the functioning of the skin barrier, lipid metabolism and the skin's immune response. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects Neem extract has strong antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes – a pathogen responsible for the development of acne lesions. Additionally, triterpenoids and flavonoids contained in neem modulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-6, TNF-α), which results in a reduction of skin inflammation and papulopustular lesions. Regulating sebum secretion and cleansing the skin Neem has a sebostatic effect, helping to regulate excessive sebum secretion, making it a particularly desirable ingredient in the care of oily and combination skin. It has a keratolytic effect, helping to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog sebaceous glands, which translates into a reduced risk of blackheads. Antioxidant and regenerative effect Phenolic compounds contained in neem, including flavonoids and vitamin E, neutralize free radicals, delaying the skin's photoaging processes. Neem also supports epidermal regeneration and increases the skin's ability to retain water, strengthening the function of the hydrolipid barrier. Support for the treatment of skin inflammation Studies show that neem can support the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune dermatological diseases such as eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. It soothes irritations, reduces itching and accelerates skin repair processes. HOW DOES NEEM AFFECT HAIR AND SCALP? Neem leaves and seeds contain a number of phytochemicals, such as nimbin, nimbidol, azadirachtin, quercetin, and fatty acids, including oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids. These substances have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making neem a particularly useful plant for treating scalps prone to inflammation, infections, or dandruff. Antifungal and anti-dandruff effect Neem effectively combats Malassezia fungi, which are one of the main causes of dandruff. Azadirachtin and other limonoids present in neem inhibit the growth of yeast-like fungi, while reducing inflammation and itching. Regular use of neem preparations (e.g. in the form of shampoo or tonic) helps cleanse the scalp and restores its microbiological balance. Sebum regulation and scalp detoxification Thanks to its astringent and cleansing properties, neem helps regulate the activity of sebaceous glands. Reducing excessive sebum secretion reduces the risk of hair becoming oily and inflammation around the follicles. Neem also helps remove toxins and impurities from the scalp, which improves its condition and can prevent hair loss. Strengthening hair follicles and stimulating growth Neem extract stimulates microcirculation in the scalp, which improves hair follicle nutrition and can affect the anagen (growth) phase of the hair's life cycle. Additionally, the antioxidants in neem protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, one of the factors that accelerates hair follicle miniaturization and hair loss. Treatment of inflammation and eczema Neem is helpful in relieving the symptoms of dermatological diseases affecting the scalp, such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Thanks to its immunomodulatory and regenerative properties, neem supports the repair processes of the epidermis, reduces redness and itching, and limits the development of secondary bacterial infections. WHICH COSMETICS CONTAIN NEEM? Neem is an ingredient in many of our skin and hair care cosmetics. Neem in Orientana hair cosmetics combined with other ingredients is a synergistic effect of nature. Neem Hair Shampoo - Cleansing and Balancing the Scalp Neem shampoo is based on an Ayurvedic formula that uses the cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant. Thanks to the presence of neem leaf extract, it has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, effectively eliminating dandruff and soothing itchy scalp. Additionally, it regulates sebum secretion and restores microbiome balance, making it an ideal solution for people with problematic, oily scalp. Henna for hair with neem - coloring and care in one Henna Orientana with the addition of neem combines natural hair coloring with care. Neem strengthens hair follicles and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the scalp, counteracting irritations that may occur during the dyeing procedure. Additionally, its presence helps fight dandruff and gives hair a healthy look, without drying or weighing it down. Ayurvedic hair therapy with gotu kola and neem - nourishment and regeneration Orientana also offers an intensive strengthening therapy with gotu kola, neem and other Ayurvedic ingredients. Neem in this formula acts as a detoxifier and regulator of sebaceous glands, supporting the treatment of inflammations of the scalp. In combination with gotu kola, which stimulates collagen synthesis and supports microcirculation, neem strengthens the bulbs, prevents hair loss and accelerates hair growth. Amla-Bhringraj Hair Oil with Nee M – Treatment for Damaged Hair In Amla-Bhringraj oil, neem plays a protective and balancing role. It has an antioxidant and regenerative effect on the scalp and supports the regeneration of damaged hair follicles. In combination with amla (a source of vitamin C) and bhringraj (a traditional herb that strengthens hair), neem improves hair elasticity and resistance to breakage, and also prevents excessive hair loss. Gotu Kola and Neem Hair Lotion – Stimulation and Soothing of the Scalp Gotu kola and neem lotion is a preparation that activates hair growth through anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and microcirculation stimulating effects. Neem cleanses the scalp and eliminates factors that can block hair follicles, while gotu kola improves blood circulation and supports cell division in the hair matrix. Regular use of this lotion brings noticeable effects in the form of thickening the hairstyle and reducing hair loss. WHO SUIT NEEM COSMETICS FOR? Cosmetics with neem are recommended primarily for people struggling with recurring skin conditions such as acne, eczema or dandruff. It is also a good option for those with mature skin who would like to stop the passage of time and hide the signs of skin aging - it is not without reason that neem is called the "elixir of youth". Cosmetics whose key ingredient is neem can bring real relief and restore vitality to even the most problematic skin.
Learn morePROPERTIES OF AYURVEDIC COSMETICS
WHAT IS AYURVEDA? Ayurveda is an ancient Indian healing art based on natural medicine using the wealth of valuable plant ingredients contained in Indian herbs. The beginnings of Ayurveda date back to antiquity, but its principles are still used today in the treatment of many physical and spiritual ailments. Ayurvedic cosmetics They are very popular because they provide multi-faceted care, acting gently but effectively on both the body and the mind. However, the cosmetics market has only recently begun to appreciate the beneficial properties of Ayurvedic cosmetics, only in the last century. WHAT ARE THE USES OF AYURVEDIC COSMETICS? The extraordinary properties of Ayurvedic cosmetics are used to enhance beauty, treat various skin problems, and also in hair care. Based on Ayurvedic recipes, oils, balms and body butters, creams, face masks and scrubs, as well as shampoos, conditioners and hennas for hair are created. In addition, Ayurvedic cosmetics are also useful in aromatherapy - their beautiful, oriental scents can effectively calm the senses and introduce a state of blissful peace. WHAT DO AYURVEDIC COSMETICS CONTAIN? Ayurvedic cosmetics owe their extraordinary properties to extracts from Indian plants such as turmeric, saffron, amla, neem, brahmi, gotu kola or moringa. They contain many valuable nutrients for the human body: vitamins, minerals, phospholipids, alkaloids, polyphenols, fatty acids. Additionally, Ayurvedic cosmetics are enriched with unique fragrance compositions whose notes last for a very long time. WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES OF AYURVEDIC COSMETICS? Ayurvedic cosmetics draw from nature what is best. Several thousand years of careful selection and testing have led to the creation of original herbal blends enclosed in cosmetic preparations packages, which have an exceptionally beneficial effect on our appearance and well-being. Thanks to the wealth of natural active substances, they have an intensively nourishing, regenerating, moisturizing, soothing and cleansing effect. They can also support the natural biochemical processes taking place in our body. It is no wonder that the properties of Ayurvedic cosmetics are appreciated by women all over the world. WHY IS IT WORTH CHOOSING AYURVEDIC COSMETICS? The main idea of Ayurveda is to keep the body and mind in harmony, which is why cosmetics Ayurvedic works in many directions. On the one hand, they soothe the senses and support relaxation, on the other on the other hand, they improve the condition of the skin and hair, giving them a radiant shine and silkiness softness and youthful freshness. Thanks to these unique properties, Ayurvedic cosmetics they can guarantee us a beautiful, young and healthy look for many years - so let's take advantage of them benefits.
Learn moreHOW ORIENTANA CAME TO BE
Did you know that Orientana is a Polish brand? Although these are natural cosmetics made from Asian plants, they are created by a Polish woman. A Polish woman in love with Asia and a natural lifestyle. The creation of Orientana was preceded by several important facts in my life: A few years ago, I focused on nature. I switched my whole family to a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle. I gave up processed food, started teaching my children to read labels and live ecologically. The reason for this change was, among other things, my visits to Asian countries, where people live close to nature and greatly appreciate its value. I visited many Asian countries where I learned about natural medicine, Ayurveda and amazing plants, whose beneficial effects have been known in those regions for thousands of years. I also learned about cosmetics with natural, simple compositions, the formulas of which are different from European ones. I decided to combine my passion for natural cosmetics and Asia with work. This is how Orientana was created - natural cosmetics made from Asian plants. The best specialists and Ayurvedic doctors in India and scientists from Poland who specialize in natural formulas work for Orientana. I create cosmetic concepts, and they transform them into a natural product. Without compromise, always with the best natural composition, as innovative and unique as possible. I want my brand to stand out among cosmetics with its full naturalness, high quality and Asian ingredients. I want it to be available and enjoyable for every Polish woman. I hope you will love Orientan as much as I do.
Learn moreAYURVEDIC HERBS FOR BEAUTIFUL HAIR
Ayurvedic herbs for hair care are widely used thanks to Ayurveda - the ancient Indian science of health and care. These natural ingredients are valued for their strengthening, anti-dandruff, anti-inflammatory and hair growth stimulating properties. Below are the most important Ayurvedic herbs used in hair care. In their daily care, Indians use a variety of methods using Ayurvedic herbs in the form of oils, rubs, rinses and natural shampoos. AYURVEDIC HERBS IN COSMETICS Have you ever wondered how important it is to have the right and fully natural composition of the cosmetics you choose for your scalp and hair care? Knowing what plant ingredients help rebuild damaged hair follicles, how they protect them and nourish the scalp and hair will help you choose the best natural hair cosmetics for everyday care. Thanks to them, you will avoid many skin problems, and your hair will be properly nourished, light and simply healthy. How to care for your hair to keep it healthy, shiny and beautiful, and not burdened with too many cosmetics? This is a question you have probably asked yourself many times. Choose hair care cosmetics with natural, preferably plant-based ingredients. Why? Botanical ingredients are excellent plant ingredients that will help you take proper care of your hair. They do not damage, weigh it down or weaken it. This is all due to the fully natural origin of plants that you will find in Orientana shampoos , oils and lotions . AYURVEDIC HERBS IN ORIENTANA NATURAL SHAMPOOS Reetha Nuts – did you know that reetha nut extract in your natural shampoo will allow you to get rid of the problem of tangled and difficult to comb hair once and for all? Reetha nuts are a 100% natural ingredient that facilitates daily hair care. Reetha nuts grow on Sapindus Mukorossi trees in India and Nepal. The active ingredient is saponins, which when combined with water create an odorless and fully natural cleansing substance, which is an ingredient in our natural hair shampoos and will help you take care of your hair in the right way. An interesting fact is that saponins are regularly used in Indian medicine to treat skin problems and are even used as a natural laundry detergent, which is very eco-friendly! Did you know that the water after washing with this detergent is safe enough to be used for watering plants? And the shells of reetha nuts are an excellent fertilizer? Ayurvedic natural hair shampoo with jasmine and almond tree contains reetha nuts. Our shampoo lathers great, gently cares for and nourishes the hair and does not contain substances such as SLES/SLS. AYURVEDIC HERBS FOR HAIR OILING Hair oiling (Ayurvedic Hair Oiling) is the most important hair care ritual in India, performed at least once a week. Oils are macerated with herbs that strengthen and nourish the hair. The most commonly used oils are Bhringraj Oil ( Eclipta alba ). Applied at night to strengthen hair follicles, prevent hair loss and premature graying. Amla Oil ( Emblica ) is also used in India. Enriched with vitamin C, it supports healthy hair growth and adds shine. Neem Oil ( Azadirachta indica ) is used to treat dandruff and skin problems. The base oil is sesame and coconut oil. Herbs are macerated in them, and these oils strengthen and protect hair from damage. You will find these oils in Amla Hair Oil and Asian Pennywort Hair Therapy. These oils are massaged into the scalp in gentle, circular motions for 5-10 minutes to improve blood circulation. The remaining oil is distributed along the length of the hair, especially the ends. It is left for at least 1-2 hours or overnight, and washed off with a mild, herbal shampoo. If you do not have the possibility to use these ingredients and prepare your own oil mixtures, choose ready-made ones, e.g. Ayurvedic Amla oil or Ayurvedic Centella Asiatica therapy . Fun fact: In some regions of India, children are taught from a very young age to massage their scalp for healthy and strong hair. Washing your hair with herbal powders (Herbal Powder Cleansing) Instead of synthetic shampoos, herbal powders are traditionally used in India, which contain natural saponins and act as mild cleansing agents. Popular Ayurvedic herbs for washing hair: Shikakai ( Acacia concinna ): A natural foaming agent that gently cleanses hair without stripping natural oils. Reetha ( Sapindus mukorossi ): Soap nuts that create lather and cleanse the scalp of excess sebum. Amla ( Phyllanthus emblica ): Strengthens hair and adds shine. You can make this mixture yourself: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of herbal powder with warm water to make a paste. Apply the paste to wet hair and scalp. Massage for a few minutes, focusing on the scalp. Rinse thoroughly with water. Such 3-in-1 mixtures (Amla, Reetha, Shikakai) are very popular in India. They combine cleansing and care properties, constituting a complete alternative to shampoo. Herbal Hair Rinses Herbal rinses are used after washing the hair to strengthen hair follicles, add shine and prevent dandruff. Most popular herbs for rinses: Hibiscus ( Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ): Adds shine and moisturizes hair. Tulsi ( Ocimum sanctum ): Anti-inflammatory and cleansing action, ideal for problem skin. Neem ( Azadirachta indica ): Treats dandruff and scalp infections. Preparing and using such rinses is trivially simple. Brew 2-3 tablespoons of dried herbs in 500 ml of boiling water. Leave the infusion to cool, then strain. Use the infusion as a final rinse after washing your hair. Do not rinse - leave the herbal active substances on your hair. HERBAL HAIR GROWTH RUBBER (Herbal Hair Tonics) In India, herbal tonics based on water are popular. The most commonly used tonics are those with Bhringraj, which supports hair growth and prevents hair loss. The second most popular ingredient is amla. Amla is used to make a tonic with vitamin C, which strengthens hair follicles and improves the condition of the scalp. It is worth reaching for the ready-made Orientana lotion , which is convenient to use and gives very good results. It strengthens hair, prevents hair loss, stimulates hair growth, intensively nourishes and regenerates dry scalp. It has an antibacterial effect on the scalp and reduces oiliness of the scalp. Internal Use of Ayurvedic Herbs (Supplementation) Ayurveda treats hair as a reflection of the overall health of the body, which is why India also uses herbal supplements to strengthen hair from the inside. The most popular herbal supplement for beautiful hair is Brahmi. It improves blood circulation and supports a healthy scalp. Another herb is Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera ). It is an adaptogen that helps reduce stress, which is one of the main causes of hair loss. A mixture of amla, haritaki and bibhitaki, called Triphala, supports detoxification of the body and skin health. AYURVEDIC HERBS IN ORIENTANA At Orientana, we use the highest quality herbs in our Ayurvedic cosmetics. Below we present those that we use in hair cosmetics. Gotu Kola – a plant used in cosmetics for thousands of years, which grows in Indian wetlands. Also known as CICA, and scientifically – Asian pennywort is an ingredient in hair growth oils and rubs. Are you curious about how Gotu Kola works on hair? It has a nourishing effect on hair and scalp. It strengthens the scalp and hair follicles, thereby stimulating them to grow. Additionally, this ingredient constantly stimulates hair growth and effectively protects it from falling out. Lodhra – is one of the most important and fully natural herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine. In this respect, it has very valuable properties and has a beneficial effect on hair, nourishing it. Its main task is to protect the scalp from various diseases. Lodhra, or Symplocos Racemosa, is used not only in cosmetology, but also in dentistry and gynecology. It prevents skin diseases and protects the skin very well. It is an ingredient of Orientana shampoos. Amla – Emblica officinalis is also known as Indian gooseberry, which strengthens, nourishes and protects hair. It effectively prevents split ends. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is an ingredient known for its skin rejuvenating properties. Amla is an ingredient in many Orientana hair care products. It also prevents hair loss, so if you are struggling with this problem, it is worth using natural hair care cosmetics that contain amla, such as the Ayurvedic natural hair shampoo with neem and green tea, which is ideal for everyday hair care for women and men. This is an excellent product that helps fight dandruff and effectively prevents hair from becoming greasy. The natural hair shampoo nourishes the scalp and foams perfectly in a natural way, making it easier to care for the scalp and hair every day. This is due to the previously mentioned reetha nuts, which, in combination with amla, thoroughly cleanse the scalp. Shikakai ( Acacia concinna ) is one of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurvedic hair care, valued for its gentle cleansing and conditioning properties. Known as the “natural shampoo of India,” shikakai contains saponins, natural surfactants that effectively cleanse the hair and scalp without damaging its natural lipid barrier. This leaves the hair clean but not dry, making shikakai ideal for those with dry and sensitive scalps. You’ll find it in Orientana shampoos. Tulsi ( Ocimum sanctum ), also known as holy basil , is an herb with exceptional care properties, widely used in Ayurvedic hair care. Thanks to its richness in bioactive ingredients such as eugenol , flavonoids , vitamin C , and tannins , tulsi has a multifaceted effect on the scalp and hair, supporting their health and appearance. This herb can be found in Neem and Green Tea shampoo. WHAT INGREDIENTS IN SHAMPOOS ARE REPLACED BY AYURVEDIC HERBS? Did you know that hair shampoos that you can find in popular drugstores contain cleansing ingredients such as SLS, SLES or ALS? SLS – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a highly irritating detergent that can be found in many drugstore skin care products: shower gels, shampoos, hair care products, and even hair dyes! It is a very strong cleaning agent that is an ingredient in many products used in the industrial and automotive industries. Think for a moment: would you like to wash your hair with a product containing SLS, which is also used, for example, to clean floors in garages, ships, and which is used to degrease industrial machines?! According to medical studies, even a small amount of SLS (0.5%) in shampoos and skin care products causes skin irritation! Did you know that studies confirm that skin irritation caused by SLS can last up to three weeks?! SLES – This is Sodium Laureth Sulfate, a cleansing substance, but less irritating to the skin than SLS. It can act on the scalp in such a way that it dries it out and deprives it of basic protection, which causes troublesome irritation and ultimately weakens the condition of the hair. With prolonged contact with the skin and in combination with water, a foamy substance is created, which has an adverse effect on the scalp, which is why it is not worth weighing down your hair with the cheapest popular shampoos from the drugstore and care cosmetics with SLES. Propylene glycol – a substance obtained from petroleum, which weakens the natural protective barrier of the scalp. Due to its properties, the scalp does not always tolerate this substance, which has a rather oily consistency. If you have a sensitive scalp, prone to irritation, it is definitely worth avoiding cosmetics with propylene glycol. Silicones – these are nothing more than synthetic substances that have no care properties. Silicones only create an artificial coating on the skin and hair, which does not allow them to “breathe”. The use of shampoos and cosmetics containing silicones weakens the natural layer of the skin and disrupts its proper functioning, e.g. the decomposition of fats and fatty acids. In India, hair care using Ayurvedic herbs is a comprehensive ritual , including oiling , washing with herbal powders , rinses , masks and tonics . Popular herbs such as bhringraj , amla , shikakai and neem not only strengthen hair, but also improve the condition of the scalp, counteract dandruff and stimulate hair growth. Traditional methods combine care with a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of both external and internal actions to maintain beautiful and healthy hair. Want to know more, e.g. what substances we avoid in our cosmetics? Also read the article about unwanted substances in cosmetics .
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