Ashwagandha can effectively control the overproduction of melanin in your skin, thus helping to treat hyperpigmentation. Researches claimed that there is a significant reduction in melanin deposition throughout the epidermis when treated with ashwagandha for 14 days.
Are you looking for natural cures to deal with skin problems such as acne, pigmentation [1], irritation, etc.? Then it’s high time you try ashwagandha for your skin.
If you want to know more about ashwagandha benefits for skin and how to use it, then read on.
Our Ayurvedic Doctor Speaks ‘’The Rasayana properties of ashwagandha help to combat the accumulated toxins (ama) in your skin tissue, which are caused by the dosha imbalances in your body.‘’ -Dr. Zeel Gandhi (Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine & Surgery), Chief Ayurvedic Doctor, Vedix
An Overview On Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, which derives its name from Sanskrit words 'Ashwa - horse' and 'Gandha-odour', is an evergreen shrub that grows in the Middle East, India, and some parts of the African continent. It is commonly known as 'Indian ginseng' or 'Indian winter cherry' and has been used in India since ancient times as a wonder medicine for several ailments.
Ayurveda classifies ashwagandha as a herb with Rasayana properties [2] that can benefit your skin and hair in multiple ways. In modern medicine, ashwagandha is known for its effective adaptogenic properties that help in rejuvenating your skin and hair tissues.
A review report from the researchers of Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda & Hospital, India, concluded that ashwagandha aids in preventing stress-related complications in the body through its adaptogenic activity.
As per Ayurveda, ashwagandha helps to balance all the tri doshas. However, it is an effective pacifier of Vata and Kapha doshas.
In a 60-day randomized trial conducted by Arjuna Natural Ltd, researchers found that using Ashwagandha caused a significant 41% reduction in the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and about 23% of cortisol reduction among the group.
Is Ashwagandha Good For Skin?
Ashwagandha has effective antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect and heal your skin from different forms of infections, damages, and reactions. It can be used on all types of skin.
With rich bio-active components such as withanolides [3], alkaloids, and saponins, ashwagandha provides deep cleansing, moisturizing and calming effects on your skin.
Studies found that the extracts of ashwagandha can significantly control the prevalence and reoccurrence of skin cancer.
‘’The Rasayana properties of ashwagandha help to combat the accumulated toxins (ama) in your skin tissue, which are caused by the dosha imbalances in your body,” says Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix.
Ashwagandha Benefits For Skin
1. Ashwagandha For Skin Pigmentation
Several factors such as over-exposure to the sun, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, poor lifestyle, and certain medical conditions can cause the excessive production of melanin in the skin. This leads to darkening of the skin in certain areas and it is called hyperpigmentation.
Ashwagandha can effectively control the overproduction of melanin in your skin, thus helping to treat hyperpigmentation. Researches claimed that there is a significant reduction in melanin deposition throughout the epidermis when treated with ashwagandha for 14 days.
2. Ashwagandha For Skin Allergies
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Different skin infections such as psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, leucoderma, scabies, etc. cause inflammation and irritation in your skin. Ashwagandha, with its anti-inflammatory and wound healing activity, helps to fight such inflammatory skin allergies by repressing C-reactive protein levels.
In a study conducted by the Division of Life Science and Engineering, School of Science and Engineering, Tokyo Denki University, ashwagandha is found to be a potential protecting agent against skin inflammation. Also, ashwagandha aids in the regeneration of healthy skin cells. It can also be used in treating bruises and cuts for its fast healing activity.
3. Ashwagandha For Acne
Ashwagandha controls the excessive sebum production in your skin and prevents the oil from depositing in your skin pores. It contains withanolides which help in deep-cleansing the dirt and other impurities from your skin tissue, thus preventing the formation of different types of acne.
It also helps in controlling the active acne blemishes with its powerful antimicrobial properties. Thus, ashwagandha works magically in controlling the inflammation, redness, and pain caused by acne breakouts. Further, it boosts the healing of acne scars and provides a soothing effect on your skin.
Scientists evaluated that a cream formulation containing ashwagandha works as an effective anti-acne treatment.
4. Ashwagandha For Skin Aging
Being a rich source of antioxidants, ashwagandha can be your best aid to fight the signs of your skin aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, blemishes, etc. Ashwagandha enhances the lifespan of healthy skin cells by increasing the activity of telomerase.
Also, ashwagandha contains alkaloids that help in easing out stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels. This in turn benefits your aging skin directly. It promotes reparation and cell renewal mechanisms in your skin by boosting collagen production.
A study conducted by the Center for Preclinical and Translational Medicine Research, Central Research Facility, Sri Ramachandra University, claimed that ashwagandha root extract has boosted the telomerase activity up to 45% at 10-50 micrograms concentration, making it a potent anti-aging agent.
5. Ashwagandha For Skin Stress
Excessive usage of cosmetics, chemicals, UV exposure, etc. may trigger keratosis [4] in your stressed skin, which in turn makes your skin dry, rough, and lifeless. Ashwagandha helps in controlling the keratosis and relaxing your skin tissue.
Research conducted by Mahavir Cancer Institute & Research Centre, Patna, found that ashwagandha is a potent antidote against arsenic-induced toxicity, which causes skin conditions such as melanosis, keratosis, skin cancer, lesions, etc.
Ashwagandha imparts deep moisturization and hydration by enhancing the production of hyaluronan in your skin. Regular usage of ashwagandha makes your skin smoother, softer, and firmer.
How To Use Ashwagandha For Skin Whitening?
A. Topical Usage Of Ashwagandha
Step 1: Prepare a fine paste by adding sufficient water into 1 spoon of ashwagandha powder.
Step 2: Apply it to your face evenly. Leave it until it gets dry.
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Step 3: Wash your face with normal water and pat dry using a clean cotton towel.
Apply the ashwagandha pack on your face twice a week, half an hour before you head for bathing. Also, after the removal of the face pack, do not use soap on your face for a day.
Best For:
Ashwagandha face pack can be applied to any skin type.
‘’Massaging your skin gently using ashwagandha oil twice a week can benefit your skin tremendously. Also, you can take ashwagandha capsules for skin whitening as prescribed by your Ayurvedic doctor,” says Dr. Zeel.
Vedix Tip: Do not use ashwagandha oil directly on your skin. Instead, dilute it with any carrier oil such as coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil before applying it to your skin.
B. Oral Consumption Of Ashwagandha
Recipe 1: Add half a spoon of ghee, half a spoon of honey into half a spoon of ashwagandha powder. Mix well and take it twice a day.
Recipe 2: Add half a spoon of ashwagandha powder into a glass of warm milk. Drink the milk before bedtime.
Important Note: Always consult your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner before using any dosage of ashwagandha topically or orally.
Ashwagandha Side Effects
Ashwagandha is relatively safe when taken in small doses [5]. But in some cases, excessive usage of ashwagandha can lead to the following side effects:
Sleepiness
Headache
Stomach upset
Rapid heartbeat
Low blood pressure
Low sugar levels in the blood
Allergic reactions
Thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism)
‘’Pregnant women should avoid ashwagandha usage as it can cause premature delivery. Also, breastfeeding moms, people with conditions such as type 1 diabetes, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis should avoid using ashwagandha,” says Dr. Zeel.
Important Note: Seek medical help immediately if you notice any side effects after consuming ashwagandha.
The Last Word
Ashwagandha can be your go-to solution for treating pigmentation, acne, and other skin-related conditions naturally. You can add ashwagandha to your skincare by either taking it orally or applying it topically. However, oral consumption of an excess amount of ashwagandha may result in gut-related problems. Hence, you need to take it only in minimum dosages for a short period with the guidance of an Ayurvedic doctor.
At Vedix, we analyze your skin and offer you a customized Ayurvedic skincare regimen that brings balance to your elevated doshas.
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