Did You Know?
Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera is considered a woman’s best friend. It is a coolant, is anti-inflammatory, purifies the blood and is excellent for the skin. It is also used to treat burns and ulcers and is a miracle medicine for various gynaecological problems!
Tip: It is a great idea to begin the day with 30 ml of aloe vera juice added to a glass of lukewarm water. It works wonders for weight management and creates an alkaline medium in the body.
Jasmine Flower:
That the entire Jasmine flower serves various uses?
The flowers are used as a natural aromatic, as a source of yellow dye for clothing, and can alleviate respiratory issues; The leaves are commonly used as a medicinal tonic, and the stem is excellent for joints. It has anti-allergic, anti-viral and antibacterial properties and is also an immunity booster that can help control diabetes naturally!
Tip: When one experiences symptoms of anxiety or fear, try wearing a Jasmine string or placing flowers on your bedside. The scent directly impacts one’s central nervous system and calms the system.
Applying Oil:
Applying oil (Snehana) comes from the word ‘Sneha’, meaning love and can be thought of as an act of self-love. When we use oil in our bodies, detoxification occurs. It brings about cleansing at the cellular level and helps cells function better through osmosis! It also helps to tone skin, prevent wrinkles, improve elasticity, prevent skin infections, and provide lubrication to the joints, preventing degeneration of bones.
Across India, auspicious occasions start with an oil bath to cleanse and energise us and provide optimal health for the day's activities!
Tip: If the complete application of oil isn’t practical, a more accessible and effective technique would be to apply this on the palms, soles of our feet, and the soft spot of the head. It will help keep your body in balance.
The best oil for use in South India is sesame oil, traditionally called gingelly oil. Coconut oil is the other recommended oil, especially in wet or humid regions.
Vetiver:
Vetiver, known as Khus or Ushir in Sanksrit, is a herb used extensively in ancient India for its versatility. It is used as an antipyretic with anti-inflammatory properties and is used to cool the body. The oil from its roots is extracted for cosmetics, aromatherapy and ayurvedic soap. It is commonly used across India as a decoration element that also helps with soil and water conservation and erosion control.
Tip: Wash and drop a little bundle of Vetiver in a jar of drinking water, especially in an earthen pot or flask and enjoy its flavour, fragrance, and medicinal benefits. This little bundle may be washed and reused for a week.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a very commonly used traditional Indian spice belonging to the ginger family that is very high in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda, it is combined with other herbs and is also taken as an additive to milk, along with a pinch of pepper, which is famous as golden milk – you should try it! - Turmeric is best absorbed by the body when combined with healthy fats, which is precisely why it is added to cooked and seasoned food.