Dr Vidhi Pandya is a clinician and medical holistic consultant and registered nutritionist, specialising in Ayurveda and Homeopathy to offer natural solutions to skin, body and wellbeing. With over 13 years of experience, she has fully immersed herself in the world of Ayurvedic teaching and applies it to her patients with successful results. She has contributed to Vogue Italia as an expert in skin radiance and continues to be a regular contributor for her wellbeing tips, tricks and immense knowledge on natural ingredients including Ashwagandha.
In recent times, the ancient 5000-year-old Indian science, Ayurveda, has become better known across the globe for its many health and wellbeing benefits. From helping many achieve a calm mind to skin that glows, beautifully strong hair, and a healthy body, Ayurveda creates that radiant natural glow of wellbeing from within.
We all have an inherent need and want to look and feel our best and wellness has become a prime focus for many, as witnessed by the vast surge in interest in natural, organic, and herbal solutions for body, mind and soul. For some, this has become a way of life and they make a conscious effort to only use products containing natural ingredients.
To talk all things natural and herbal, I am opening my book of tried and tested secrets from generations of clinical experience.
Let us dive into the blissful world of natural botanicals. Although they have been used for centuries, they have lately been given a well-deserved place in mainstream skincare and health care so here is my list of 7 herbs that have been proven to improve skin elasticity, help improve blemished skin and help you to achieve radiant glowing skin.
7 HERBS AND BOTANICALS FOR SKIN RADIANCE
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Rosehip
Although commonly known for its multiple skin benefits, few know that Rosehip also helps to fight arthritis, pigmentation, and inflammation. An even lesser-known fact about Rosehip is that it is an excellent source of Vitamins A and C, so it induces natural collagen synthesis.
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Jojoba Oil
Jojoba Oil is a winning answer when it comes to cases of eczema (atopic dermatitis). It has healing properties, thanks to its monounsaturated and essential fatty acid content and high levels of natural vitamin E.
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Elderberry
Elderberry is an intensely dark purple fruit, packed with antioxidants. Therefore, it plays a key role in treating cold, flu, indigestion, constipation, hay fever, sinus inflammations, acne, premature ageing of skin especially dull lifeless skin and more! This herb truly adds a natural glow from within all day long.
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Rosemary
Rosemary is a mighty herb that is strong and has a character of its own. It is my all-time favourite for giving hair that glossy shine and I simply cannot live without it. It also bestows a clarity to skin by helping to prevent acne, rosacea, pigmentation, sun burn and uneven skin tone. Rosemary is beautifully imbibed by the skin when using Olverum’s Pure Radiance Facial Oil, and this has gained my love and a prime spot in my skincare routine. Incorporate Rosemary into your daily cooking to experience the maximum benefits inside out.
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Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, known to many for its mood lifting and cognitive benefits. However, only a few know it is one of the most potent anti-inflammatories for skin of all types and ages. Plus, it works directly to boost the synthesis of natural collagen and elastin in our bodies.
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Cardamon
Categorised as a spice, Cardamom has an intense flavour with essences of sweetness running through it. It adds character to any dish and has impressive medicinal properties. Cardamom fights inflammations, prevents high blood pressure, improves cholesterol, heals gastric ulcers, lowers blood sugar. If that list is not long enough, it also acts as a detoxifying skin toner from within. You can easily use Cardamom in your day-to-day routine. Cook with it, brew it as a tea or add it to your skincare routine, as I have, with the aromatic Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil which contains Cardamom essential oil.
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Saffron
When seeking natural protection against ultraviolet (UVA) radiation, Saffron is one of the best things you can consume and apply onto your skin! Originating from the plant saffron crocus, this vibrant red aromatic spice can remove hyperpigmentation, support wound healing (especially post-acne scars), and can fight inflammation. Try this age-old recipe that my own grandma used for her own DIY Saffron Face Mask:
- Crush 2 strands of Saffron with a mortar and pestle.
- Mix with 1 tbsp of milk, ½ tsp of honey
- Apply the mixture to your skin for 10 minutes
- Rinse off and pat your skin dry
- Apply a gentle moisturiser or serum
Rest assured you will be blown away by your new glowing skin!
