According to Ayurveda, what we put onto our bodies matters just as much as what we put into them.

Our skin is our largest organ. It is highly absorptive and whatever goes onto our skin, within seconds is absorbed into our bloodstream and later on into our deeper tissues and organs.

Most commercial body care products are filled with harmful chemicals, carcinogens, and toxins that are harmful to our health.

According to Ayurveda, the general rule with body care products is:

If you can’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NATURAL PRODUCTS

Ayurveda doesn’t advocate for the use of harsh and drying commercial soaps as they strip the natural oils of the skin that naturally keep the skin hydrated and protected from the natural elements.

Traditionally, Ayurvedic natural herbal powders were homemade and used as a way of naturally cleansing, toning and rejuvenating the skin without over-drying or absorbing any toxic chemicals through the skin.

Benefits of Ayurvedic herbal body washes:

  • 100% natural
  • A healthier alternative to commercial soaps
  • Purifies and rejuvenates skin
  • Gently detoxifies and tones the skin
  • Exfoliates dead and dull cells
  • Enhances skin complexion
  • Imparts glow to your skin leaving it soft and supple
  • Divine fragrances uplift the senses

The following recipes are easy, natural and tridoshic – meaning they are good for all Ayurvedic body types.

Fragrant Cinnamon Rosella Body Wash Powder

This fragrant, Ayurvedic bathing powder gently detoxifies and tones the skin. Anti-oxidants present in this powder provides anti-ageing boost while simultaneously rejuvenating the skin.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1.5 cups Whole Green Mung Bean Powder
  • 3/4 cup Rice Flour
  • 3 Tbsp Cinnamon Powder
  • 3 Tbsp Rosella Powder or White Turmeric Powder

METHOD:

Either purchase the ingredients in powder form or in whole dried form and grind in a grinder or high-speed blender/food processor. Store in an airtight container.

Cleansing Triphala Body Wash Powder

A classic Ayurvedic formulation of the three Indian superfruits: Haritaki, Amalaki and Bibhitaki, Triphala is rich with vitamin C and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to keep the skin supple, protected and revitalized. It protects the skin from environmental damage and also acts as a natural toner to flush toxins from deep within the skin’s layers.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1.5 cups Whole Green Mung Bean Powder
  • 3/4 cup Rice Flour
  • 1/4 cup Triphala Powder
  • 5 drops essential oil of your choice* (optional)

METHOD:

Either purchase the ingredients in powder form or in whole dried form and grind in a grinder or high-speed blender/food processor. Store in an airtight container.

  • For Vata: Add 5 drops of lavender or frankincense essential oil*
  • For Pitta: Add 5 drops rose or jasmine essential oil*
  • For Kapha: Add 5 drops cedar or eucalyptus essential oil*

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS

The following ingredients can be applied to either of the above body wash recipes based on your unique skin type or the season to counteract their opposing elements.

  • For dry skin: Mix fresh at the time of use with 1 tbsp coconut milk or raw, organic, unsweetened cow yogurt.
  • For normal and oily skin: Add 1 tsp rosewater or honey per use.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Use in place of commercial soaps twice weekly, by mixing enough herbal powder with water in your hand to make a thick paste. Apply like soap to the entire body and leave on 1-2 minutes then rinse off well. Use approximately 1 tbsp dry powder per use.

Make a big batch in advance and store in a cool, dry place for up to 2-4 weeks.

EXTRA TIPS & ALTERNATIVES

If the above powdered formulas are a bit rough on your skin, reduce the frequency to once weekly or add a few drops of organic oil suitable for your Dosha type to the powder right before use.

As a non-powder and alternative, boil 2 tbsp Triphala powder with 1 tbsp whole flax seeds in 1L of water. Reduce to 750mL, strain the flax seeds and sediment and use as a liquid Ayurvedic body wash alternative.

With love, awareness, and nature’s care – something as simple as taking a shower can be transformed into a divine ritual of sacred self-care.

Have you tried these recipes? We’d love to hear your feedback or if you have any questions! Let us know in the comments below.