A rasayana diet consists of foods that build ojas, our vital essence, and balance the vata dosha, the body’s air element that dries and shrivels skin as we grow older.
- Almonds, walnuts and sesame are quintessential ojas foods. They are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids that plump the cell membrane, making the skin soft, moist and elastic.
- Colourful fruit like pomegranate, papaya, mango, fig, watermelon, guava and grape are traditional srikamya or complexion enhancers, and for good reason. Modern research finds they are brimming with cell-renewing antioxidants that halt the ageing effects of free radicals—the unstable molecules your body produces when it is exposed to ultraviolet sun rays, environmental toxins, pollutants or stress.
- Leafy green vegetables promote shodhan or cleansing, flushing toxins from the lymphatic system, while root vegetables like carrot and beetroot are ahar rasayanas, dietary tonics that strengthen connective tissue.
- Ghee is a potent emollient, reaching deep into body tissues to soothe and nourish mature skin. Use it as a voluptuous night cream, or just have a dollop over rice for a daily collagen boost.
- Turmeric, the miraculous spice that has anointed Indian brides for thousands of years, is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic. It cleanses the blood, lymph and liver and regenerates cells to smoothen out wrinkles, fade age spots and tighten sagging skin. Take a teaspoon every morning with honey and a pinch of black pepper to reflect its golden glow.
Skin Firming Formula
- Aloe vera: Contains mucilaginous polysaccharides that tighten tissues and increase collagen
- Sandalwood: Closes pores, erases fine lines, increases suppleness
- Saffron: Reduces melanin production to brighten skin tone