Turmeric: The Golden Healer

Turmeric is one of earth’s greatest and most powerful healers. Worshipped as an herb of the sun in ancient Vedic times, we’d like to pay homage to it now, as the sun’s power is waning here in the Northern Hemisphere - and, as we are re-balancing our skin after many months spent in the sun.

Turmeric (or the Sanskrit Haridra) has been used in Ayurvedic skincare for thousands of years. We estimate that it has been used by humans for tens of thousands of years. There is little it cannot do in the realm of healing.

Of all the parts of the beautiful Turmeric plant, the essential oil component is believed to deliver the most healing power to us humans. This is because its essential oil is a concentrated mix of potent and often rare molecules (which may number as many as 400-500 different species in a single oil from a single plant). Furthermore, many of these plant molecules have receptor sites in the neuro-endocrine system of the human body. This demonstrates either a close evolutionary relationship between humans and Turmeric over the course of thousands of years - or, a higher creative intelligence at work, with our best interests at heart.

ENERGETICS: Anti-inflammatory. Anti-cancer. Anti-viral. Anti-fungal. Anti-bacterial. Anti-allergic (helps normalize the immune system). Anti-oxidant (inhibits oxidation and cellular aging). Alterative (restores normal functioning of organ systems). Astringent (brings firmness back to the tissues).

DETOXIFICATION: Turmeric balances all the doshas, but it balances Pitta the most, because of its blood-cleansing and liver-cleansing properties. Turmeric detoxifies the body-mind and assists the body in its self-healing and self-regulation process. One reason is because it increases the level of the enzyme glutathione S-transferase, which is essential to the body’s detoxification.

SKINCARE: Turmeric is the ultimate skin food. It cleans and purifies the blood and skin, bringing clarity to the complexion and the glow of health to the body-mind. It slows the aging process, diminishes wrinkles, and addresses hyperpigmentation and other skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-bacterial properties clear and heal acne. It balances oil and sebum production, so it’s equally beneficial for both oily and acne-prone skin. Turmeric also fights breakouts, redness, and inflammatory skin conditions.

Find Turmeric in our:

Eczema + Psoriasis Body Oil ($36): Turmeric’s bitter, anti-inflammatory and liver-cleansing properties make it the perfect medicine to combat eczema & psoriasis.

Turmeric Ghee Eye Cream ($27): Turmeric is detoxifying, decreasing puffiness in the undereye area and reducing the appearance of dark circles.

Purifying Facial Oil for Acne ($39): Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties help combat breakouts.

Golden Lip Ghee ($15): Ghee is one of the best ways to deliver healing herbs to the cellular level. Fat-soluble herb Turmeric is able to go deeper into the tissues when delivered through this healthy fat.

Mama Belly Oil & Baby Massage Oil (both $36): We use this beautiful, life-affirming herb in both our mama and baby oils. For mama, Turmeric helps maintain skin's elasticity and youthful radiance. For baby, it improves skin health and balances out any irritations.

Whole Beauty Oil ($48): Turmeric is the ultimate skin food, so of course we infuse it into our ultimate beauty oil, formulated for total skin vitality.

Vata Rose Clay Cleanser ($24): Turmeric’s cleansing properties do not dry out the skin, but rather keeps it moist and lustrous.

Oil vs. Lotion

“The body of one who uses oil massage regularly does not become affected much even if subjected to accidental injuries, or strenuous work. By using oil massage daily, a person is endowed with pleasant touch, trimmed body parts and becomes strong, charming and least affected by old age.”

Charaka Samhita Vol. 1, V: 88-89 

Although lotion is far more commonly used in our culture here in the West, oils offer many mental, physical and spiritual benefits which make them a smart choice for your everyday body-care.

What you choose to moisturize your skin with is of utmost importance – skin is our largest organ, and everything that you put on your skin gets absorbed DIRECTLY into your bloodstream. There is no filtering that happens here. We like to say that the quality and purity of what you put on your skin is even more paramount than what you eat – since your digestive system actually filters your food for you. In other words: don’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t eat, or can’t pronounce.

Lotions are more likely to contain parabens or other chemicals & preservatives. Our high-vibe Ayurvedic oils are food-grade, organic, and edible. 100% plants - that’s it.

Oils give the body a protective barrier, maintains skin’s pH level, boosts immunity, and insulates the electrical nerve impulses of the skin. Oil protects skin against bacteria, viruses, and other environmental attacks.

Oil helps mobilize toxins from the tissues while also calming the nervous system so that the body can move from stress-fighting functions to rejuvenating functions. When the nervous system is at rest, the cells can repair themselves, bringing healing to the body and mind.

Oils are the most compatible with the sebaceous glands in your skin. The human body is electrical, and these oils keep our skin and bodies vibrating at the highest possible frequency.

Choose from some of our crowd-favorite body oils, below:

Neem: The Sunburn Savior

Too much sun? Neem can help. Neem (or Azadiracta indica) is Ayurveda’s anti-inflammatory herb to the rescue. One of the best herbs to treat redness, inflammation, and other Pitta skin concerns, Neem is one of the most powerful blood purifiers and detoxifiers in Ayurvedic herbology.

Best for acne, skin diseases, wound healing, and skin damage (especially from the sun), neem is useful for all Pitta disorders. It clears toxins involved in acne and other inflammatory skin conditions. It works wonders for eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. 

One of the best ways to receive the benefits of neem is topically, through the skin, in one of our medicated, healing oils. Fun fact: our bestselling Eczema + Psoriasis Body Oil actually doubles as an after-sun oil.

Find Neem in our:

Eczema + Psoriasis Body Oil ($36): Can also be used as an after-sun oil to combat inflammation from excess sun exposure.

Pitta Alkalizing Herbal Cleanser ($24): Neem, Manjistha and Lavender are some of Ayurveda's best alkalizing herbs for combating blemishes and other inflammatory Pitta skin issues. 

Purifying Facial Oil for Acne ($39): Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial facial oil to combat acne. Neem is nature’s gift to acne, as it contains salicylic acid in its natural form.

Eczema + Psoriasis Facial Treatment ($39): Too much sun? Use this to cool and soothe burns or flare-ups.

Pura Veda Oral Detox ($24): Antibacterial Neem maintains healthy teeth and gums, and supports overall oral hygiene.

Brahmi: The Brain and Hair Wonder Herb

Brahmi (also known as Gotu Kola), is referred to in Ayurveda as “the herb of enlightenment” or “the friend of the brain”. Its leaf resembles a cerebellum, hinting at its affinity for the brain. Brahmi is also the #1 Ayurvedic herb for hair growth.

Spiritually, it awakens the crown chakra. It balances the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Brahmi is said to bestow intelligence upon its user. It also decalcifies the pineal gland. I formulated our Brahmi Hair Oil as the multi-dimensional healing oil of your dreams: as you anoint your crown and massage your scalp with this high-vibrational oil, you are simultaneously rejuvenating your hair, scalp, brain, nerves, & crown chakra.

It is a Tridoshic herb, which means that it is beneficial to all 3 doshas. It also helps with overall circulation and movement of lymph (hence its inclusion in our Holy Basil Breast Oil). As an adaptogen, it calms and balances the nervous system.

As for the skin, it is rich in vitamin C and boosts natural collagen production. It stimulates regeneration of the skin cells. Ancient Ayurvedic texts like the Sushruta Samhita and the Charaka Samhita report that Brahmi “imparts a celestial glow to the complexion.”

Find it in our:

Brahmi Hair Oil: ($30) Brahmi is Ayurveda’s #1 herb for hair health.

Pitta Cooling Body Oil: ($36) Brahmi is anti-inflammatory and Pitta-pacifying.

Holy Basil Breast Oil: ($30) Brahmi helps to support circulation in the lymphatic system.

Pitta Face Serum: ($39) Brahmi’s anti- inflammatory and cell renewal properties give you your best skin yet.

Whole Beauty Oil: ($48) Brahmi boosts natural collagen production.

The Science of Scent

Musings on scent…Scent has long been considered a direct gateway to the brain, the emotions and the soul. To the subconscious. The sense of smell is the most primal, ancient root of our emotional life. Scent is processed in the limbic lobe, one of the oldest, most primal parts of the brain. The limbic system is instinctual, and beyond reason. In other words, before we even register that we are in contact with a smell, we’ve already received & reacted to it.

Scent straddles a line between the physical and metaphysical worlds. Since ancient times, smell has been associated with the breath, and the life force - prana.

The art and science of scent is so important to my formulations here at Nāo Ayurveda. Our oils are brimming with sensorial, herbaceous, high-vibrational plant essences, 100% derived from nature. These are the “fragrances” that work WITH our bodies, not against them. These ancient, natural scents speak directly to our ancient bodies. Essential oils are literally the essence, or spirit of the plant…which in turn connects us to our own divinity.

Cellular Intelligence

Ayurveda is…the science of life.

Ayurveda is…discovery of the truth.

Ayurveda is…the oldest living system of healing on our planet.

Ayurveda is…the conjunction of mind, body and spirit.

Ayurveda is…a science of balance, healing and prevention.

Ayurveda is…the macrocosm within the microcosm.

Ayurveda is…living in harmony with the ever-turning wheel of the seasons.

Ayurveda is…maintaining the inherent wisdom of the body.

Ayurveda is…cellular intelligence.

Mahad is the name of this supreme cellular intelligence. Each cell has wisdom and knowledge of its specific function, while also intelligently communicating with cells in the collective body.

Nature’s ingredients are coded with messages to remind the body of its divine wholeness, inherent cellular wisdom, nourishment and balance. 

Ayurvedic herbs & oils communicate with the cellular and cosmic intelligence of our bodies, assisting us in reaching our highest expressions of health.

In Gratitude + Glowing Health,
Kiera xx

The Second Brain

Some call it the second brain, some say that our skin is the nervous system turned inside-out. The bottom line is: our skin has neurotransmitters which are in constant communication with the brain, the nervous system, and the entire body.

If we start to view our skin as the messenger from the external environment to our internal world, what messages would you want to send? Would it be…messages of love, compassion, wholeness, nourishment, calmness, balance, and healing? The skin is your opportunity to do so.

What you put on your skin is direct messaging to your nervous system and internal health.

Ayurvedic herbs & oils communicate with the cellular and cosmic intelligence of our bodies, assisting us in reaching our highest expressions of health.

Let’s start to view our skinCARE this way - sacred, alive, and integral to our WHOLEistic health.

In Good Health & Glowing Skin,
Kiera xx

Breast Health = Lymph Health

With October being all about breast cancer prevention & awareness, I wanted to take a quick moment to share the Ayurvedic viewpoint on breast health.

According to Ayurveda, breast cancer develops as toxins become attracted to the fatty tissue (meda dhatu) that the breasts are largely composed of. The toxins get trapped, and need to be circulated out through the lymphatic system (a key component of rasa dhatu). Unlike other areas of the body, the breasts only have two ways of keeping things circulating: breast-feeding or breast massage. That’s it. It is so crucial to keep prana and fluids flowing in this area to avoid stagnation and toxic buildup over time.

Ayurveda encourages breast massage as a vital aspect of your holistic body-care regimen. Daily, or even weekly breast massage with the Holy Basil Breast Oil can support proper circulation of lymph in the breast tissue. Lymphatic-cleansing herbs Brahmi and Holy Basil are lovingly infused into a nourishing yet invigorating base of organic pomegranate and mustard seed oils.

If you’re not doing so already, this month try to commit to incorporating breast massage into your daily self-care routine <3

In Gratitude + Good Health,

Kiera xx

Living Skincare

Is your skincare vibrating with life force energy? Or is it, to put it quite frankly, dead? This is ultimately what is comes down to.

Whenever I’m at a spa or a department store and pick up a $250 face cream, the first ingredient is ALWAYS - “WATER (AQUA)”. And quickly followed by unpronounceable words such as: METHYLPROPANEDIOL, ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, DISODIUM EDTA, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, PHENOXYETHANOL, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER- and the list of synthetic ingredients goes on and on, with a couple of oils sprinkled into the list towards the end. I can’t help but wonder - even if some of these dead, man-made chemicals are not harmful, per se, how are they actually helping or benefitting our health and our (very) alive skin?

Ayurveda teaches us that herbs and essential oils are the Kundalini of plants. The concentrated, spiritual essence — the lifeblood of the plant. Oshadi is the Sanskrit word for “plant medicine”, but it can equally translate to “carrier of light.” And in the Vedic system, plants are revered for their ability to capture solar energy and transmute it into forms that can be used and assimilated by the human body.

In fact, a vibrating energy field surrounds every living thing - including plant oils & essential oils. They are alive, with an aura, and a spirit, that resonates so much with our own. This can be captured by Kirlian photography and other techniques. But — there is no life force captured when synthetic oils are photographed. This simply cannot be created synthetically.

Our ingredients are ALIVE, and carry within their cells the healing codes of nature — which, in turn, help you to heal yourself. This is why these oils feel so GOOD — emotionally, sensorially, energetically.

You will feel it. You might feel tingly. You might feel a warming or cooling sensation. You might feel a dose of the high frequency healing energy that each product carries. You’ll probably feel saturated with love. And your skin will never look better.

Bringing this philosophy to modern skincare, I lovingly blend these concentrated, vibrant ingredients - that are ALIVE - and effective - and HEALTHY - to deliver this light, love, and magic to your skin.

In Gratitude + Good Health,
Kiera xx

The Glow of Health

Ojas is one of the most beautiful concepts in Ayurveda, in my opinion. What is Ojas? It is the vital essence radiating from someone who is, quite simply, glowing with health. In is an intangible life force substance that physically manifests as our natural beauty and radiance: a strong aura, glossy hair, a smiling face, healthy skin, a relaxed posture, kind speech, and loving action. A luminous light that seems to emanate from within. It results in a myriad of ways, but largely from good digestion, peace of mind, and living life in joy & alignment with your purpose.

So, what degenerates Ojas? Well, the usual suspects: Eating de-vitalized or tamasic foods: i.e. overly processed, microwaved, stale, old. Excess Vata. Too much travel. Constant distraction. Overwork. Over-exercising. Lack of faith/trust. And, what replenishes your Ojas? No surprise here: Local, seasonal foods. Time spent in nature. Living seasonally. Rejuvenative herbs like shatavari, ashwagandha, and guduchi. Warm, raw milk. Ghee. Proper digestion & assimilation of foods. Daily oiling & natural skincare. Sound sleep, spiritual practice & prayer.

The integrity of Ojas is dependent upon the health of all the tissues in the body. And Ojas is directly related to Shukra, or reproductive tissue - which is the seventh, final, and most highly refined tissue layer. Because Shukra rules creation & creativity in the body, your natural fertility is highly correlated with the strength of your Ojas.

Anything that increases Vata decreases Ojas, and vice versa. Vata is the great degenerator. Since we are in the beginning of Vata season, I humbly invite you to take a moment to consider the state of your Ojas.

In Gratitude + Glowing Health,
Kiera xx

Homeostasis

As we are currently in the Equinox portal, balance is on my mind. The body is always seeking balance. That is its goal. If I could sum up “What is Ayurveda” in one simple phrase, it would be this: the body’s constant yearning for homeostasis.

Ayurveda regards the body as a temple, and keeping it in balance is truly the gateway to healthy living. Harmony between your internal and external environments is key: so is being cognizant of how everything that you see, taste, eat, feel, hear, touch, or experience in your outer world affects your inner.

With Ayurveda being an individualized science, of course, each person’s ideal homeostasis is different. This is represented by your Prakruti, or unique combination of the 5 elements/3 doshas - and no two Prakrutis are really, truly alike. We consider this your unique blueprint of health, which your body is always striving to align with - consciously or unconsciously.

Here are some simple ways that you may unconsciously be seeking balance as you go about your daily/seasonal routines:

-Having a balanced plate at mealtime: a good balance of colors, qualities, textures, tastes (the 6 tastes), and even different temperatures.
-I seek homeostasis through weather - I feel more ease and balance on a warm, cloudy day in the summer or with a cloudless, crisp, sunny blue sky in wintertime.
-Wearing wool in the winter and white linen in the summer.
-Waking up before 6am and getting in bed by 9:30pm.
-Drinking green juice in the summer.
-Eating lentil soup in the winter.
-Eating your largest meal around noon-time (as always, the theme of the microcosm and the macrocosm: the strength of your digestion mirrors the sun, and when the sun is the highest in the sky, your agni -digestive fire- is the strongest).
-Using oils that balance your skin type or skin tendencies - or, rotate with the seasons: light and cooling in summer, heavier and nourishing in the winter, detoxifying in the spring.
-Anointing your body with oil daily to balance the tissues, electrical body, lymphatic system and nervous system.

Ayurveda & Mantra

Mantra is a very special part of my creation and production process of these high-vibrational, healing products. It is part of what makes them “sacred” - to your skin, your body, your health, and your spirit.

A mantra is a word of power and light. We can consider them ancient spiritual formulas. Mantras align the energy of the mind-body with the fundamental frequencies of the universe, and with a higher consciousness. They align us with our Highest Selves, if you will. Mantra therapy can energize and enhance the healing properties of oils and herbs. Overall, they can promote our greater well-being, inwardly and outwardly. Our products hold the transformational high frequency of these healing mantras, which can assist in the co-creation process of your health, radiance, and beauty.

Two mantras that hold an especially sacred force that I love to infuse into our products are the following: 

Gayatri Mantra:

ॐ भूर्भुवः॒ स्वः॒
तत्स॑वितुर्वरे॑ण्यम्
भ॒र्गो॑ दे॒वस्य॑ धीमहि।
धियो॒ यो नः॑ प्रचो॒दया॑त्॥

Om bhur bhuvah svah
Tat-savitur varenyam
Bhargo devasya dhimahi
Dhiyo yo nah prachodayat

This loosely translates to:
"O Divine mother, our hearts are filled with darkness. Please make this darkness distant from us and promote illumination within us."

The Gayatri mantra appeals for peace and divine wisdom for us all. It aligns us with nature and infuses our bodies with Divine love, light, and power. By bringing the Gayatri mantra into your life, you might notice moments of synchronicity, poignant coincidences, glimpses of the divine.

Om namah shivaya:

ॐ नमः शिवाय

The five sacred syllables are the seed (bija) sounds of the five elements of creation - fire, water, earth, air, and space. And Om is the sacred primordial sound which encompasses all. 

The Little-Known Skin Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha's internal health benefits are well-known and are becoming more widely acknowledged in popular culture by the day - BUT, dare I say - less is known about its topical benefits for the skin.

With anti-stress and anti-aging being the major talking points of Ashwagandha for the body, it provides those same benefits to the skin - AND MORE…

Read below for why I love it, and why I infuse the miracle adaptogenic herb into some of our bestselling formulas:

COLLAGEN

• Contains biologically active compounds which boost collagen production, preventing visible signs of aging

• Protects collagen from the damaging effects of environmental stress

• Rich in antioxidants

• Ashwagandha root contains hyaluronan, a natural form of hyaluronic acid, which naturally plumps and hydrates

SOOTHING

• Its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties combat blemishes

• Anti-inflammatory - Calms redness, breaks up inflammation patterns

STRESSED SKIN

• Helps manage the effects of external stressors like pollution

• Protects skin from internal stress hormones like cortisol

• Its adaptogenic, anti-stress properties help skin become less reactive to stress

• Builds cellular wisdom, aids cell renewal

In Love, Gratitude + Beautiful Skin,
Kiera xx

10 Signs Your Pitta Is Imbalanced

Pitta season is in full effect: it is swampy, hot and humid out there. For those of us who are dominated by the fiery Pitta dosha, it is Pitta season that often exacerbates the less desirable Pitta qualities (“like increases like”, and our external environment is constantly affecting our internal homeostasis). Balanced Pitta traits may tip the scales into imbalance. An ambitious Pitta can become a workaholic, sharp intellect could be read as criticism, and strong digestion can manifest as acid reflux. If this resonates at all, here are 10 questions to ask yourself:

1. Are you feeling extra critical lately? Irritable? Impatient?

2. Are you overly obsessed with work, or unable to stop working?

3. Is your speech biting, or sarcastic?

4. Do feel frustrated for no real reason, or have no tolerance for minor aggravations?

5. Do you find it difficult to fall asleep if you are up past 10pm?

6. Are you unable to quench your thirst?

7. Is your skin feeling irritated, more sensitive than usual, or breaking out?

8. Is your skin experiencing acne, rosacea, eczema or overall redness?

9. Are you experiencing more hair loss than usual?

10. Are you having heartburn? Acid reflux?

If so, some tips:

• In the summer, try to stay indoors when Pitta is at its peak from 10am-2pm. The other window of Pitta time is at night from 10pm-2am. Try to get in bed by 9:30pm to avoid that second wind of Pitta brain activity (and desire for productivity).

• Anoint your body with cooling herbs and oils like sandalwood, brahmi, lavender & hibiscus.

• Limit spicy, sour & salty tastes.

• Increase sweet, bitter & astringent tastes.

• Wear pearls or moonstones.

• Chant cooling mantras like vam (watery & lunar energy) or lam (earth energy).

• Cook primarily with coconut oil or ghee.

• Make yourself a turmeric milk before bed.

• Exercise to half of your capacity, and don’t exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

• No coffee on an empty stomach.

• Don’t miss a meal.

• Use natural perfumes.

• Limit exposure to environmental toxins & chemicals. No chemicals on the skin.

Stress & Your Skin

By now, almost all of society has acknowledged and accepted the mind-body connection that rules us all. But how, exactly, does stress affect the skin? Let’s investigate. (Hint: like everything in Ayurveda, there’s no one-size-fits-all).

The skin is essentially a reflection, a mirror, of what is going on inside of us. It is a physical indicator of whether our internal state is of health and harmony - or, stress and imbalance.

Anything that you experience through the mind or the senses has the potential to balance or imbalance you. And any skin problem or condition is simply a result of an imbalance in the mind or body that is showing up on the skin.

The skin cells can be considered mirrors to several systems in the body: the nervous system, the brain, and the immune system. In fact, the skin maintains very intimate contact with the entire body. Because stress is created in the mind, and because of skin’s direct contact with the brain, we have this tremendous mind-body exchange occurring on the surface of our bodies.

Here is how stress typically manifests on the skin for each mind-body type:

Vata stress: premature aging, excessive dryness, wrinkles

Pitta stress: rosacea, eczema, acne, rashes, other flare-ups

Kapha stress: excessive oiliness, cystic acne, lack of skin tone

Our skin is the only living organ that is exposed to the environment - all of our other organs live inside of us. Because skin is exposed to environmental effects like sun, pollution, chemicals, it requires special attention and care in the form of skincare and daily oiling, to counter these effects and keep it healthy and in balance.

Spotlight on Shatavari…

I love taking a moment to highlight some of the beautiful, sacred ingredients that go into our formulations, and the “why” behind each of them. As you well know, every ingredient in each formulation has been carefully and lovingly chosen for the effect that it has on the skin, the body, the doshas, the hormones, your energy flow, your vitality, your spirit…the ripple effect goes on and on.

And Shatavari is a special one. Known (translated) as the infamous “she who has a thousand husbands”, Shatavari is the ultimate aphrodisiac to nourish the female reproductive organs. She is a nourishing and lubricating herb, with an unctuous, building, and grounding nature.

Shatavari is an herb that I pay extra reverence to, for the many gifts that it provides to women across ALL life phases. And that, perhaps is the most striking thing about the adaptogenic wonder. It supports the female body through menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, & menopause. Here are some key benefits:

• Protective of Ojas and body fluids

• Boosts milk supply in lactating mothers

• Phytoestrogen qualities support hormonal balance during menopause

• Boosts fertility with its aphrodisiac properties

• Supports both mama and baby during pregnancy

• Balances hormones (and emotions) during menstruation

• Regulates vaginal pH levels

• Replenishes reproductive tissue, helps with vaginal dryness

Perhaps lesser-known is Shatavari’s positive effect on stress and mood. Shatavari’s antidepressant and adaptogenic qualities soothe anger and irritability. And its nervine tonic qualities, combined with its cooling nature, bring Shatavari to the top of my list right now.

As such, you will find Shatavari playing a starring role in our Shatavari Yoni Oil, Bija Conscious Conception Tea, Sacred Pregnancy Tea, and - because of its cooling properties - our Pitta Alkalizing Herbal Cleanser.

SHATAVARI YONI OIL

We dreamed up the Shatavari Yoni Oil for all your yoni needs: vaginal dryness, inflammation, hormonal changes, daily nourishment, and of course pleasure. Shatavari is Ayurveda's #1 rejuvenative tonic herb for the female reproductive tissues. We slowly and lovingly infuse Shatavari root into a soothing but nourishing base of cold-pressed seed oils. Use this aphrodisiac elixir daily for ultimate restoration of ojas and protection of your creative tissues.

BIJA • CONSCIOUS CONCEPTION TEA

The holy trinity of Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Tulsi nourish your powers of creation in our Bija • Conscious Conception Tea. In Ayurveda, fertility and infertility relate directly to the health of the seventh tissue layer of the body, which holds the reproductive seed, or "bija". Shatavari and Ashwagandha serve as aphrodisiac herbs, nourishing and strengthening the reproductive organs. Tulsi is known to increase feelings of love and devotion. Whether you are looking to conceive a new project, business, or baby, nourish your infinite potentiality of creation.

PITTA • ALKALIZING HERBAL CLEANSER

Formulated for acne-prone, inflamed, sensitive Pitta skin, this organic herbal cleanser calms blemishes and irritation, while purifying pores. Neem, Manjistha and Lavender are some of Ayurveda's best alkalizing herbs for combating blemishes and other inflammatory Pitta skin issues. Shatavari's unctuous properties restore moisture and build ojas, or vitality, in the tissues. Serves as a daily cleanser and light exfoliant, all in one.

Tulsi: The Great Mother Medicine

As we approach Mother’s Day weekend, I’d love to take a moment to highlight Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, or “The Great Mother Medicine of Nature”. Tulsi is a pillar of Ayurvedic medicine, and has been worshipped as such for thousands of years. Humans are smart: we cultivate and favor the plants found to be most beneficial to us. The ancient sages acknowledged Tulsi as a vitalizing, adaptogenic, anti-stress ally, helping us in our quest to live longer, healthier lives.

Simultaneously revered as a goddess, mother, or “Queen of Herbs”, Tulsi reduces stress, slows aging, reduces inflammation, protects against radiation, and supplies the skin with a rich array of antioxidants. It has a purely sattvic quality, cleansing the aura and increasing prana in the body.

Tulsi has a protective effect against free radical damage at the cellular level. This is largely due to its high antioxidant content. Tulsi is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, selenium, and essential oils. This wonder herb also contains multiple bioactive vitamins and minerals which have a regulating, harmonizing effect on our bodies and our daily fluctuations of ups, downs, and imbalances.

I am so very passionate about formulating adaptogenic skincare, because the benefits are so efficiently accessed through the skin. See below for 3 beautiful ways to begin incorporating Tulsi into your daily skincare + self-care rituals:

Traditionally revered as a goddess incarnated into plant form, Holy Basil is Ayurveda’s sacred “Mother Medicine”. Our Holy Basil Breast Oil harmonizes healthy breast tissue, putting breast health at the center of your daily self-care routine. Holy basil, brahmi, and mustard seed oil support the proper circulation of lymph, avoiding stagnation. Pomegranate seed oil nourishes and firms the breasts.

Therapeutic-grade Tulsi (Holy Basil) is infused into the purest organic rosewater to hydrate, soften and calm skin. The "Queen of Herbs", Tulsi is the most effective known adaptogen in Ayurveda, delivering antioxidant and anti-stress properties to your skin. Anti-inflammatory rosewater soothes skin, upholding its optimal pH balance. The Tulsi Rose Toner tones skin, leaving you glowing and ready for moisturizing. Use anytime to refresh and destress.

Our Kapha Face Serum detoxes oily "Kapha" skin from the inside, out. This blend of organic oils gently flushes ama (Sanskrit for toxins) from the skin. Ama accumulates from everyday exposure to environmental pollutants. This serum has astringent properties to tone and tighten pores, helping to avoid clogging that can lead to cystic acne. Our lightest face oil, the Kapha Face Serum is perfect for those prone to oiliness, or who live in humid climates.

The Science of Touch

Ayurveda teaches us the art of healing through the five senses: and healing through touch is a pillar of this ancient healing system. Some view our skin like our nervous system turned inside out. Others say that our skin functions like our second brain. It interprets every experience for us, every emotion.

Skin is not superficial - it is more than meets the eye. It is the largest organ, and is connected to every other system of the body. Skin cells are in constant communication with our whole body. Our skin has the most complex network of nerves in the whole body: It has 600,000+ sensory receptors that link directly to the brain and the entire nervous system. Every inch of your skin contains nine feet of blood vessels and 9,000 nerve endings. We have a huge opportunity and responsibility to maintain our inner health through the art of touching the skin.

When we experience massage or therapeutic touch, our stress levels decline, circulation improves, lymph moves, and our body releases health-promoting hormones.

Anointing the body with richly scented oils is one of the most sacred ancient rituals of humankind. The Sanskrit word sneha means both “oil” and “love”. Thus, when we give oil to the body, we give it love. And if we are lacking love in our lives, we can bring it with oil. Oils give the body a protective barrier, maintaining skin’s pH level, boosting immunity, insulating the electrical nerve impulses in your skin. Oil protects skin against bacteria, viruses, and other environmental attacks.

This all brings us to beautiful concept of Abhyanga,or self-oil massage. To ensure you are reaching your daily “touch” quotient, perform this daily ritual at home, either in the morning or before bed:

Use an oil appropriate to your dosha, the season, or use our Tridoshic oil, for all types. Use a light but firm touch- we are not targeting the muscles with this self-massage, as much as we are targeting the subtle energy channels (the marma points and the nadis). The marma points in the body are seen as portals, where the physical body meets the mind. On joints and the belly, move your hands in a clockwise circular motion. On limbs, stroke in an up-and-down motion to create friction. On hands, feet, neck and face, stroke in an upward direction only.

Oils to support your at-home Abhyanga practice:

Treat yourself to the ancient ritual of Abhyanga, Sanskrit for "oil massage," with this all-purpose Ayurvedic body oil. Formulated to balance all skin types in all seasons and climates, this oil provides stability and warmth while giving the skin a dose of essential fatty acids and vital, hormone-balancing nutrients.

Our luxurious Vata • Nourish • Body Oil is ideal for Vata-dominant types with dry skin, or anyone living in a dry climate. This oil has warming and grounding properties, and is perfect for any dosha in the fall and winter seasons. These organic plant extracts supply the skin with antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids, which boost collagen and tone skin, giving a vibrant glow. Adaptogenic Ashwagandha protects skin from daily stress.

Our Toning Body Oil is a stimulating blend of ingredients designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite, arthritis, varicose veins, and other swollen conditions. The oil detoxifies and dissolves accumulations of fluid and toxins in the lymphatic system, which, according to Ayurvedic wisdom, causes cellulite and arthritis. Use this oil twice a day to help regulate the functioning and circulation of the lymphatic system.

Our Muscle + Joint Body Oil uses natural plant anesthetics to counter joint and muscle pain. It supports and strengthens the muscles and joints while clearing stagnant energy. Spiritually, basil, camphor and clove work synergistically to increase prana flow in the body - awakening perception and bringing harmony to the mind, body and spirit.

Amla: Collagen's best friend

I wanted to take a moment today to highlight an ancient superstar ingredient that is so supportive to our skin, hair and bodies. Amla berry - also known as Amalaki fruit, or Indian gooseberry - is one of the top ingredients to be using right now in your daily skincare routine.

Amla has been used for thousands of years in the Ayurvedic science of rejuvenation, called rasayana, which is devoted to the art of longevity and slowing down the aging process. How does it do this? Through its super high and potent vitamin C and antioxidant content.

Vitamin C has long been found to help increase your skin’s production of collagen. The two basically go hand in hand.

Amla is the most concentrated form of Vitamin C in the entire plant kingdom - its high antioxidant content boosts skin’s radiance, or ojas.

And because the type of vitamin C found in amla is the whole plant - and not synthetic - the phytonutrients in the whole plant make the vitamin C more bioavailable.

As for hair health, amla promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss and premature greying. And, due to its high antioxidant content, Amla masterfully helps repair damaged hair and cells.

Amla is highly beneficial for the Pitta dosha, which rules both the skin and hair - hence the benefits of its topical use. Amla is also a blood purifier, so it aids Pitta skin problems like acne.

With deep reverence for the ancient amla berry, we feature this sacred ingredient in 3 of our bestselling products: Whole Beauty Oil, Brahmi Hair Oil, and Pitta Face Serum. Check it out below:

Shop our Amla-infused products:

The Whole Beauty Oil is formulated with some of the most prized flowers, fruits, herbs and sea minerals known since ancient times to cultivate radiance and beauty. These high vibrational ingredients carry within their cells the healing codes of nature to keep your skin glowing with health. Formulated with the highest intentions of total skin vitality from the inside-out, this sacred oil reminds the skin of its divine wholeness, inherent cellular wisdom, nourishment and balance.

The best Ayurvedic scalp, hair and brain nutrients in one little bottle. Brahmi Hair Oil promotes thick, lustrous hair and prevents hair loss by strengthening hair from the root and feeding nutrients to the scalp. Healing ancient herbs Brahmi, Amla and Bhringaraj strengthen hair, while calming and cooling the mind, and revitalizing nerves and brain cells. Spiritually, this powerful oil helps awaken the crown chakra and gives an overall sense of oneness.

Alkalizing and cooling, the Pitta Face Serum calms acne-prone, inflamed and irritated "Pitta" skin. This most gentle and soothing of blends is perfect for those with sensitive skin, prone to inflammations and flare-ups.

Welcome to Kapha season…

There is no official start date for Kapha season, but the mid-point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox (approximately Feb 1-2) seems like a good time to officially ring in detox season.

What is Kapha season exactly? Seasonal living, and the delicate transition between seasons, is at the heart of living Ayurveda. Our outer environment is constantly affecting our bodies, minds, and our doshas. To stay in balance, we counteract the qualities found in our environment through opposing qualities in our diet and lifestyle.

The transition from winter to spring is dominated by the elements of Earth and Water. Think: snow melting, mud, damp air, cloudy sky, soft, mushy earth.

So, what to do? How do we keep ourselves in balance? Time to dry brush, exfoliate, get that lymphatic massage, eat your kitchari, drink your detox tea…anything and everything to get your body and mind moving and circulating once again. Kapha needs daily movement, stimulation & deep cleansing to overcome its innate sluggishness.

Food-wise, your body may have started communicating with you that it’s ready for light and stimulating foods. For example: craving arugula, green juice, raw foods, things that would have seemed unthinkable back in October (peak Vata season, when we tend to crave grounding, warming, rooted foods).

Other tips:

-Increase bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes
-Decrease sweet and sour tastes, and heavy food in general
-Take a hot, steamy bath - or plan an afternoon at the sauna
-Go to bed early and wake up early. (No daytime napping!)
-Try to move your body/exercise for 30 minutes per day to get that Kapha (and your lymphatic system) flowing!

Our top product recommendations for detox season:

Pura Veda Oral Detox: The ritual of daily oil pulling is one of the longest-standing pillars of the Ayurvedic daily routine. By swishing oil around in your mouth, these raw living plant fats attract toxins and bacteria, actually pulling them from your digestive tract and body channels. This blend is infused with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimicrobial neem, myrrh and clove, herbs traditionally used to support healthy teeth and gums.

Our Ubtan is a traditional Ayurvedic cleansing powder which cleanses, tones, and moisturizes the skin, while also regulating lymph and overall body circulation. Serves as a daily body cleanser and exfoliant, all in one.

Our Vedic Detox Tea is one of the simplest ways to detoxify your whole system on a daily basis. The combination of organic cumin, coriander and fennel seeds gently cleanses ama or toxins from the digestive tract and other body channels. This tea supports cleansing on multiple levels of the body.

Our Essential Kapha Collection is our lightest and most stimulating skincare that will help mobilize toxins from the skin’s tissues, assisting your body with its natural cleansing process during this season.