Retinol has often been the most sought after beauty supplement in recent times for its anti ageing properties, but it comes with its own side effects, whereas Ayurveda has always given safe alternates to chemicals used in Allopathy treatments and this time too, doesn’t disappoint. For a long period of time, Ashwagandha was in demand for its beautifying properties, but now Ayurveda has a new safe weapon to treat ageing. It is called Babchi and it has been declared as the natural alternative to Retinol.
With the discovery of Babchi, side effects of Retinol like red patches, peeling skin and acute photosensitivity are history. With the world moving towards a natural system of treatments and organic living, this discovery is the perfect shot in the arm. Those in the knowledge of Ayurveda and its vast offerings of treatments and natural herbs were always aware of babchi as a natural anti ageing herb as well as a herb used for treatment of skin diseases. Known as a kushtanashini (destroyer of leprosy and skin disease) and raktashodhak (blood purifier), it is commonly prescribed for leucoderma/vitiligo and many skin diseases, including eczema and psoriasis, as well as for respiratory disorders and digestion. The herb is chemo-protective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial in nature. Although the entire plant is used in Ayurveda, its seeds are especially potent. This herb is a natural source of natural phytochemicals like psoralen, which are specifically used for skin ailments.
Almost all major Ayurveda companies in India use Babchi in skin treatment products and it is also a part of Unani medicine. It is best taken under medical supervision, as the treatment and quantum to be used will depend upon the patient’s dosha. With such properties that can revolutionize skin care, it is only natural that Western labs are looking to isolate the natural element and use it in their skin care products.
Itoozhi Ayurveda specializes in Lifestyle disorders including skin and beauty treatments.
