Ayurveda offers several wonderful herbs that benefit your skin, hair and overall health. One herb that can work wonders for your skin is ashwagandha. Beyond its traditional medicinal application, this ancient herb is gaining popularity for its potential benefits for skin health. Packed with antioxidants and bioactive compounds, ashwagandha offers a natural and holistic approach to achieving a glowing complexion. From reducing inflammation to boosting collagen production, this versatile herb has the power to address a range of skin concerns. Whether you are battling acne, premature ageing, or simply want to make your skin look radiant, ashwagandha may be the answer you have been looking for. Know the potential benefits of ashwagandha for skin and how you can make it a part of your skincare routine.

What is ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, also known as ‘Withania somnifera’ or ‘Winter Cherry’ is a small shrub. The name “Ashwagandha” is derived from Sanskrit, with “ashwa” meaning horse and “gandha” meaning smell, referring to its distinct odour reminiscent of horse sweat. It is a traditional Ayurvedic herb used for ages to improve overall health and well-being. It is indigenous to India and is valued for its adaptogenic characteristics, which help the body adapt to stress and preserve balance.

Ashwagandha is high in antioxidants and bioactive chemicals, which can help reduce stress, improve sleep, increase immunity, and support thyroid function, as found in a study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine. In addition, current research has looked into its possible skin health advantages, such as lowering inflammation and increasing collagen production.

Ashwagandha offers several health benefits for your skin. Image courtesy: Freepik

Benefits of ashwagandha for skin

Ashwagandha, a renowned Ayurvedic herb, offers a host of benefits for skin health. It contains antioxidant properties and bioactive compounds that work together to enhance your complexion in several ways:

1. Reduces inflammation

Ashwagandha reduces inflammation through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as found in a study published in the Pharmacognosy Journal. It contains compounds like withanolides, which have been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, ashwagandha can help regulate the immune response, preventing excessive inflammation that can damage skin cells and contribute to skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea. By targeting inflammation at a cellular level, ashwagandha helps soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote healing, as found in a study published in the journal Cureus.

2. Boosts collagen production

“Ashwagandha boosts collagen production by stimulating the body's natural processes involved in collagen synthesis. It contains compounds that can activate certain signalling pathways that promote the production of collagen-building proteins. Additionally, ashwagandha contains antioxidant properties that help protect collagen from damage caused by free radicals, ensuring its longevity and effectiveness in maintaining skin elasticity and firmness,” says Ayurveda expert Dr Arathi Vasudev. By supporting collagen production and protecting it from degradation, ashwagandha contributes to give a more youthful and vibrant skin.

3. Protects against oxidative damage

Ashwagandha protects against oxidative stress due to its potent antioxidant properties. It contains compounds like withanolides and alkaloids that neutralise harmful free radicals, preventing them from damaging skin cells and contributing to premature ageing, as found in a study published in the journal Cureus. These antioxidants work by donating electrons to free radicals, rendering them harmless. Additionally, ashwagandha can help reduce inflammation, which is often associated with oxidative stress. By protecting skin cells from oxidative damage, ashwagandha helps maintain a healthy and youthful appearance.

4. Makes your skin glow

Ashwagandha enhances skin tone by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin. “When skin is irritated, it may appear dull and uneven. Ashwagandha contains anti-inflammatory effects that relieve inflamed skin, reduce redness, and promote a glowing and clear skin. Plus, a balanced skin microbiome is required for maintaining a healthy skin. Ashwagandha may assist to maintain a healthy microbiome, reducing the overgrowth of dangerous bacteria that may lead to skin discolouration and unevenness,” explains Dr Arathi. By treating these underlying causes, ashwagandha can help brighten the appearance and improve overall tone.

5. Reduces oil secretion

Ashwagandha may indirectly reduce oil secretion by regulating stress and hormones. Chronic stress can contribute to increased sebum production, leading to oily skin and acne. Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress, as found in a study published in the journal Pharmaceutics and maintain hormonal balance. By reducing stress and supporting hormonal regulation, ashwagandha may help normalise sebum production, resulting in less oily skin. However, more research is needed to fully understand the specific mechanisms by which ashwagandha affects oil secretion.

How to use ashwagandha for skin?

Here are some easy and effective homemade face masks with ashwagandha, as suggested by cosmetologist and trichologist Dr Priti Mahire.

1. Ashwagandha and turmeric mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of ashwagandha powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons of raw honey

Method:

• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mask to the face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water.

This mask reduces inflammation, brightens skin, and promotes a healthy glow.

2. Ashwagandha and sandalwood mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of ashwagandha powder
• 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder
• 2 tablespoons of rose water

Method:

• Mix all the ingredients together to form a smooth paste.
• Gently, apply the mask to your face.
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water.

This mask soothes irritated skin, reduces redness, and improves skin tone.

3. Ashwagandha and aloe vera mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ashwagandha powder
• 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel

Method:

• Mix the ingredients together to form a smooth paste.
• Apply the mask to your face, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water.

This mask hydrates skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing.

4. Ashwagandha and multani mitti mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of ashwagandha powder
• 2 tablespoons of multani mitti (fuller's earth)
• 1 tablespoon of rose water

Method:

• In a bowl, mix all the ingredients.
• Gently, apply the mask to your face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

This mask deep cleanses pores, absorbs excess oil, and reduces acne.

Ashwagandha and multani mitti mask can help you get rid of acne. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock.

5. Ashwagandha and yoghurt mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ashwagandha powder
• 2 tablespoons yoghurt

Method:

• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mask to the face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water.

This mask exfoliates skin, brightens complexion, and reduces blemishes.

6. Ashwagandha and lemon juice mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ashwagandha powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Method:

• In a bowl, mix all the ingredients to form a paste.
• Gently apply the mask to the face.
• Leave the mask on your face for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse the mask off with lukewarm water.

This mask brightens the skin, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes a radiant complexion.

7. Ashwagandha and coconut oil mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ashwagandha powder
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Method:

• In a bowl, mix all the ingredients to form a smooth paste.
• Apply the mask to your face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

This mask deeply moisturises skin, reduces dryness, and promotes a healthy glow.

Side effects of ashwagandha for skin

While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience side effects. These can vary from person to person and may include:

• Topical application of ashwagandha-based products might cause skin irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin.
• Some people may be allergic to ashwagandha. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, itching, or swelling.

It is important to note if you experience any adverse effects while using ashwagandha, discontinue it and before using it directly always conduct a patch test and consult with a healthcare professional.

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