The Role of Adaptogenic Rasayana Herbs in Ayurveda
Stress is a normal part of life, and it can be triggered by everyday events like deadlines at work, traffic, and major life changes. While some level of stress can be healthy, having too much of it can have a negative impact on our health.
Body balancing adaptogenic Rasayana herbs have the natural ability to help us combat stress and bring peace to our minds and bodies by rebalancing the hormones of our adrenal system. For thousands of years, these therapeutic herbs have been helping us adapt and survive harsh and unfriendly conditions, but it has only been over the last 100 years that western cultures have begun to embrace their immune-boosting and mood elevating properties.
The unique characteristics of Rasayana herbs
Traditional Rasayana herbs, like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Winter Cherry (Withania somnifera), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) have their own characteristics that deliver a unique set of benefits. But researchers have found that the following three qualities can be found in all adaptogenic Rasayana herbs:
· All adaptogens are non-toxic and safe to use.
· The combination of bioactive substances found in these herbs work in multiple ways and on multiple processes within the human body. This allows individuals to deal with several different types of stressors at the same time.
· Adaptogenic herbs normalise the body, neither increasing or decreasing certain functions.
Ashwagandha
Arguably the most extensively used of the adaptogenic Rasayana herbs, Ashwagandha is one of the leading anti-ageing herbs in Ayurveda and carries a number of key benefits including:
· Protecting skin from the effects of free radicals
· Providing strength and immunity
· Improving our ability to handle stress
Research reviewed in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine ( via Naturopathic Currents link: https://www.naturopathiccurrents.com/news/ashwagandha-alternative-treatment-anxiety ) also found that Ashwagandha could reduce anxiety scores by as much as 56% (this is in comparison to psychotherapy which only reduced scores by 30%).
Emblica Officinalis
Known as Amla in Sanskrit, Emblica Officinalis is not only adaptogenic, but it also contains high levels of vitamin C. It is a leading anti-ageing adaptogenic herb, possessing several anti-ageing properties thought to be the result of its tannins, similar to the those found in green tea. These are just some of the benefits you can expect when using the Shaanta Intensive Moisturiser. Featuring a rich blend of L-Carnosine, Resveratrol™ and hydrating ingredients, the anti-oxidants and herbal extract blends found in our moisturiser are delivered directly to the skin and are perfect for all skin types.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been in the press a lot lately, with mounting research revealing its ability to battle several forms of cancer, promote weight loss, and even treat a select number of eye conditions. Tetrahydrocurcumoids THC is biologically active curcumoids which can be found in turmeric. THCs have been reported to have a profound positive antioxidising effect on the body, being able to reduce acute inflammation while also having excellent wound healing capabilities.
Gotu Kola
This herb has been widely used in both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. While largely used for healing wounds and skin conditions (such as eczema and psoriasis), recent studies have revealed its potent antioxidant abilities through:
· Increasing blood supply
· Inhibiting bacterial growth
· Promoting collagen growth (which also strengthens the skin)
It is safe to use for sensitive skin, and it is well known for its anti-ageing benefits. A number of the AWE Cosmeceutical products I use in the Facial Ritual contain this enlivening herb, including the Shaanta Intensive Moisturiser, the Rasadana Hydrating Mask and the Vimala Gentle Cleanser
Liquorice
Liquorice is a leading anti-inflammatory herb, delivering results similar to steroids like cortisone, but without the negative side effects. It can be useful in treating acne, in brightening the skin and is the leading ingredient in the Kaanti Lightening Serum which can help balance oil secretions. The Tula Enzyme Hydra Lotion is 100% natural moisturiser which harnesses the potent active ingredients of liquorice as well as those of pineapple and papaya fruit extract, quandong, and green tea. Perfect for normal and combination skin, this product clarifies the skin while also unclogging blocked pores.
Bring balance back to your life – naturally
Adaptogenic Rasayana herbs help keep our “fight or flight” response under control. While we may no longer need to worry about lions or bears attacking our camp as we did thousands of years ago, modern everyday stresses are ongoing and can easily throw us out of balance.
Adaptogenic Rasayana herbs naturally stop overwhelming stress in its tracks. Not only do our products have the ability to eliminate adrenal fatigue, but they offer a number of additional health benefits including increased focus, endurance, and a strengthened immune system.
I use these Ayurvedic skin-care products in the Facial Ritual. Please call 0433 090 696 to find out more information.
