Ayurvedic cosmetics are gaining increasing popularity among those seeking natural and holistic skincare methods. Their effects are based on ancient Indian knowledge about health and harmony of body, mind, and spirit . In this post, you'll learn what Ayurvedic cosmetics are, how they work, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine. Discover the world of Orientana – the first brand in Poland to combine Ayurveda with modern cosmetology.
What are Ayurvedic cosmetics?
Ayurvedic cosmetics are skincare products based on the principles of Ayurveda , an ancient Indian medical system . Their formulas draw on natural plant extracts, oils, herbs, and minerals tailored to the needs of a specific constitution (dosha): Vata, Pitta, or Kapha . In Ayurveda, the skin is a reflection of the overall health of the body —therefore, cosmetics should not only act on the surface but also balance the body's energy.
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian healing art based on natural medicine utilizing the wealth of valuable plant ingredients found in Indian herbs. While its origins date back to ancient times, its principles are still used today to treat numerous physical and spiritual ailments. Ayurvedic cosmetics are highly popular because they provide multifaceted care, gently yet effectively affecting both body and mind. However, the cosmetics market began to appreciate the beneficial properties of Ayurvedic cosmetics relatively recently, only in the last century.
Key features of Ayurvedic cosmetics
Ayurvedic cosmetics are distinguished not only by their natural ingredients but also by their holistic approach to skincare – combining tradition, science, and the philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Below, we present the key features that define authentic Ayurvedic cosmetics – as offered by Orientana.
Formulas inspired by recipes from thousands of years ago
Ayurveda is the oldest medical system in the world, dating back as far as 5,000 years. Hundreds of healing and beauty recipes are recorded in ancient texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
- Many Ayurvedic recipes are based on synergy : for example, sesame oil + ashwagandha + turmeric – a combination used for centuries for rejuvenating massage.
- Modern brands, such as Orientana, draw on these formulas, updating them in line with the requirements of modern cosmetology (stability, microbiology, effectiveness testing).
- In India, there are over 8,000 registered plants producing cosmetics in accordance with the principles of Ayurveda.
Did you know that Ayurveda considers the skin to be a reflection of the overall health of the body? Therefore, Ayurvedic cosmetics treat it not as a "surface to be moisturized," but as an energetic and physiological system requiring balance.
No artificial additives, parabens or silicones
You won't find the synthetic ingredients found in conventional drugstore products in Ayurvedic cosmetics. Why? Because they contradict the idea of "clean skincare."
- Parabens : preservatives considered by Ayurveda to potentially disrupt endocrine systems. Ayurvedic cosmetics are typically preserved naturally, using ingredients approved for food preservation or of natural origin, such as essential oils, vitamin E, plant ferments, sodium benzoate, and potassium sorbate.
- Silicones : They create an artificial smoothing layer but have no nourishing properties. Instead, they are replaced by natural emollients such as rice oil, shea butter, or isoamyl laurate (a plant-based alternative).
- Artificial colors: are replaced with plant extracts, e.g. turmeric (yellow shade), hibiscus (pink), tamanu oil (greenish).
Today we know that natural ingredients have a much higher bioavailability rate – they are recognized by the skin as "our own", which increases their effectiveness.
Holistic action – physical and energetic
Ayurvedic care treats the skin as an element linked to the nervous system, emotions and energy of the body.
- Facial massage with Ayurvedic oil (e.g. turmeric) not only firms the skin, but also stimulates the marma points – the equivalent of acupressure – which affects well-being and regeneration.
- Ayurvedic cosmetics contain ingredients with neurocosmetic properties, e.g. sandalwood, which, through its scent, affects the limbic system and stress levels.
- Holistic action also affects sleep, calmness, and hormonal balance – for example, jasmine oil applied to the body after bathing improves the quality of sleep according to research published in the Journal of Health Research (2018) .
Did you know that in Ayurveda, there are 108 marma points —22 of which are located on the face? Stimulating them through appropriate massage with Ayurvedic oils can support detoxification, improved circulation, and lymphatic drainage.
The use of adaptogens and plants with synergistic effects
Adaptogens are plants that help the body adapt to stress—both psychological and environmental. They have been present in Ayurveda for thousands of years, before the Western world discovered their potential.
- Ashwagandha, tulsi, brahmi, am la – these are four frequently used adaptogens in Orientana cosmetics.
- They act at the cellular level: they reduce the effects of oxidative stress, support regeneration and slow down the aging process (anti-aging effect).
- The plants are combined so that their effects are enhanced – for example, the combination of gotu kola and amla is more potent than each ingredient alone.
- According to data from the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India , as many as 78% of classical Ayurvedic preparations contain more than one adaptogen.
Adaptogens, such as Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), influence cortisol levels and may support neurotransmitter balance, including β-endorphins . This translates to reduced oxidative stress, improved skin regeneration, and reduced inflammation—as confirmed by studies published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Ayu in 2012, among others.
The most valuable Ayurvedic plants in skin care
Ayurveda is based on the power of herbs and plant extracts, which have been supporting health and beauty for thousands of years. Below, we present the five most important ingredients that form the heart of many Orientana cosmetics.
Ashwagandha – an adaptogen for stressed skin
INCI: Withania Somnifera Root Extract
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is one of the most powerful adaptogens known to Ayurveda. Its effects focus on reducing oxidative stress, supporting regeneration, and improving skin's resistance to external factors.
Care properties:
- It has an antioxidant effect, neutralizing free radicals.
- Increases ATP levels in skin cells – improving their metabolism .
- Improves elasticity and smoothes wrinkles.
- Reduces the symptoms of skin fatigue : gray tone, tension, dryness.
- It has a calming effect and also affects the level of cortisol in the body.
In in vitro studies, ashwagandha extract increased fibroblast proliferation and type I collagen production (J. Ethnopharmacol., 2012).
Application in Orientana:
Turmeric – a plant-based antioxidant and skin brightener
INCI: Curcuma Longa Root Extract
Turmeric is the "golden herb" of Ayurveda, valued in both medicine and skincare. It contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, brightening, and antibacterial properties.
Care properties:
- Evens out skin tone, reducing discoloration and pigmentation spots .
- Soothes inflammation – ideal for skin with acne, atopic dermatitis or eczema.
- Supports healing and regeneration of micro-damages.
- Reduces redness and irritation.
Curcumin has more than 5x stronger antioxidant activity than vitamin C in laboratory conditions (study published in Antioxidants , 2021).
Application in Orientana:
Neem – a natural detoxifier and guardian of skin purity
INCI: Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract/Oil
Neem is the Ayurvedic "pharmacy in a leaf"—known for its antibacterial , antifungal , and cleansing properties. Considered one of the most important herbs in the treatment of problematic skin.
Care properties:
- Effectively fights the bacteria responsible for acne.
- Regulates sebum secretion and tightens pores.
- Reduces inflammation and skin eruptions.
- It acts as a natural " detox " for the skin.
According to phytochemical studies, neem contains over 140 active compounds, including limonoids, flavonoids and fatty acids, which are responsible for its unique effects.
Application in Orientana:
Amla – vitamin C straight from nature
INCI: Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C—containing up to 20 times more than oranges. In Ayurveda, it's used as a rasayana— a rejuvenating elixir of life . Amla is often used to strengthen hair, soothe the scalp, and stimulate hair growth.
Care properties:
- Strong antioxidant effect – inhibits photoaging, including hair
- Improves the radiance of skin and hair
- Strengthens blood vessels – reduces redness and spider veins.
- Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin.
In tests on skin, amla extract showed an inhibitory effect on the activity of the tyrosinase enzyme – responsible for discoloration (Int. J. Cosmet. Sci., 2013).
Application in Orientana:
Gotu Kola – a plant of youth and regeneration
INCI: Centella Asiatica Extract
Gotu Kola, also known as Asian pennywort, is one of the most effective ingredients used in anti-aging cosmetology and dermocosmetics. In Ayurveda, it is considered a remedy for wound healing, improved circulation, and skin rejuvenation.
Care properties:
- Stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin.
- Strengthens the skin structure and reduces fine wrinkles.
- Supports scalp regeneration
- Accelerates hair growth and stops hair loss.
Centella asiatica lotion – clinical result: 41% less hair loss.
Already at a concentration of 500 µg/ml, the induction of VEGF (vascular growth factor) gene expression was recorded at a level of 37.3 ± 9.47, which was even higher than the effect of minoxidil (1.99 ± 0.07).
Application in Orientana:
What are the benefits of Ayurvedic cosmetics?
Ayurvedic cosmetics are more than just a natural alternative to traditional skincare. Their strength lies in their holistic approach – they simultaneously address the body, mind, and emotions, delivering multifaceted results. Unlike many conventional products, they don't mask symptoms but act at the source of the problem, supporting the skin's natural regenerative processes.
Regular use of Ayurvedic cosmetics can significantly improve the condition of your skin—both visually and biologically. Below, we present the key benefits of using them .
Reduction of oxidative stress and wrinkles
One of the key causes of premature skin aging is oxidative stress, caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that damage cellular DNA. Ayurvedic cosmetics are rich in natural antioxidants, such as curcumin (from turmeric), vitamin C (from amla), and flavonoids (from neem), which neutralize the effects of free radicals.
Effects visible on the skin:
- Slowing down the process of wrinkle formation.
- Improving skin elasticity.
- Reduction of symptoms of fatigue and so-called "skin stress".
- Smoothing the structure of the epidermis.
Studies show that withanolidine contained in ashwagandha can reduce the activity of collagenolytic enzymes by up to 37%, protecting collagen fibers from degradation (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018).
Improved circulation and skin detoxification
In Ayurveda, great importance is placed on proper blood and lymph circulation, which directly impacts skin tone, cell oxygenation, and the skin's ability to regenerate itself. Ayurvedic cosmetics—especially massage oils—are often used in conjunction with facial or body self-massage, which stimulates microcirculation and aids in the removal of toxins.
Detoxifying effect:
- Cleansing pores of excess sebum and impurities.
- Strengthening blood vessels.
- Reduction of swelling and lymphatic congestion (especially around the eyes and jaw).
- Reduction of the symptoms of "gray, tired skin".
Facial massage with Ayurvedic oil (e.g. sandalwood) every morning for 3–5 minutes improves microcirculation by up to 40% (according to data from the Ayurvedic Institute of India).
Natural brightening and firming of the skin
The ingredients used in Ayurvedic cosmetics have a natural ability to restore skin's radiance and firmness—without the use of silicones or optical highlighters. Their effect is not to mask, but to stimulate physiological processes occurring in the skin.
How it works:
- Amla and gotu kola stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin.
- Turmeric and tulsi reduce minor discolorations, improving skin tone uniformity.
- Vegetable oils (e.g. almond or sesame) increase skin elasticity and prevent water loss.
Cleansing and balancing oily and acne-prone skin
Ayurvedic cosmetics don't dry out the skin, as conventional acne products often do. Instead, they work to balance the skin, regulating sebaceous glands and supporting the skin's natural microbiome.
Perfect for oily and combination skin:
- Neem and turmeric have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Tulsi (Indian basil) regulates sebum secretion and accelerates the healing of lesions.
- Plant extracts cleanse pores and reduce their visibility.
In classical Ayurvedic writings, oily skin is a symptom of Kapha dosha disorder – that is why bitter, light and cleansing ingredients such as neem, tulsi or sandalwood are used.
Calming sensitive and reactive skin
Ayurvedic cosmetics, thanks to their natural composition without irritating additives, are an excellent choice for delicate, sensitive and allergy-prone skin.
Soothing and calming effect:
- Reduces irritation and tightness.
- Strengthening the hydrolipid barrier thanks to plant emollients.
- Reducing skin reactivity to external factors (temperature changes, stress, synthetic cosmetics).
Ashwagandha and jasmine oil have neurocosmetic effects – they stimulate opiate receptors in the skin, which reduces the subjective feeling of discomfort (source: International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2019).
Regularity is the key to success
In Ayurveda, beauty is the result of daily rituals, not ad hoc interventions. Ayurvedic cosmetics are most effective when used systematically and in accordance with the daily rhythm and doshas.
Principles of effective action:
- In the morning – cleansing, stimulating oils, light serums and creams.
- In the evening – deep cleansing, nourishing creams, massage ritual, regeneration.
- Minimum 4–6 weeks of regular use to see the full effects at the cellular level.
Beautiful skin is not the result of a magical ingredient – it is the result of harmony, mindfulness and a conscious approach to care.
Ayurvedic cosmetics in practice – how to choose them for your skin?
In Ayurveda, skin is considered a reflection of the balance (or imbalance) between the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha carries specific physical and emotional characteristics, which are also reflected in the condition of the skin. Therefore, at Orientana, we combine the wisdom of Ayurvedic traditions with the real needs of modern consumers – ensuring effective, holistic care tailored to the individual needs of the skin.
Dry and mature skin – VATA type
People with a dominant Vata dosha often struggle with dryness, tightness, fine wrinkles, and thin, delicate skin. This skin type primarily needs:
-
intense hydration
-
elasticity and regeneration
-
protection against transepidermal water loss
Recommended Ayurvedic ingredients:
-
Ashwagandha – strongly nourishes and has adaptogenic properties
-
Almond oil – lubricates and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier
-
Shea butter – regenerates and soothes irritations
I recommend:
Rose body butter
Serum Ampoule Moisturizing
Sensitive and vascular skin – PITTA type
Pitta skin is warmer and prone to redness, irritation, and inflammation. It requires gentle treatment, heat balancing, and reduction of excess sebum.
Pitta skin needs:
-
Soothing and soothing
-
Inflammation regulation
-
Strengthening blood vessels
Recommended Ayurvedic ingredients:
-
Rose – has a calming effect
-
Amla – a natural antioxidant rich in vitamin C
-
Turmeric – soothes inflammation and evens out skin tone
Look:
Rose tonic
Oily and acne-prone skin – KAPHA type
Kapha skin has denser skin, often with excess sebum production, enlarged pores, and a tendency to blemishes. It requires regular cleansing and detoxification to restore freshness and balance.
Kapha skin needs:
-
Deep cleansing
-
Anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effect
-
Regulation of the function of the sebaceous glands
Recommended Ayurvedic ingredients:
-
Sandalwood – cools, cleanses and has antibacterial properties
-
Neem – fights the bacteria responsible for acne
-
Tulsi – holy basil with strong cleansing properties
Learn about:
Facial cleansing foam
Ayurvedic care is not only about selecting the right ingredients, but also about mindfulness, ritual, and harmony with nature. At Orientana, we believe that natural cosmetics can support both the skin and inner balance – every day.
Discover the entire range of Ayurvedic beauty rituals:
Orientana Ayurveda
Have any questions? Contact us – we'd be happy to help you choose the right products!
