In Hinduism

Ayurveda (science of life)

Cosmetics, Perfumery, Skin care and other Ayurvedic Beauty treatments

Source: Ancient Science of Life: Critical review of Ayurvedic Varṇya herbs

Hemidesmus indica (Sanskrit: śārivā) is the name of a medicinal plant used in Ayurveda to promote skin care and enhance the beauty of the skin (varṇya).—Hemidesmus indica (commonly known as Anantamūla or Salsa) is employed as a blood purifier and for various skin problems. It promotes health and energy and cures diseases caused by vitiated blood. The antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of Hemidesmus indicus root bark has been evaluated in several in vitro and ex vivo models. Methanolic extract of its root has been reported to show 14.80% mean tyrosinase inhibitiory activity when assayed using l-DOPA as the substrate. Another study revealed root extracts of Hemidesmus indicus to contain 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde as principal fragrant phenolic compound showing inhibitory potential against diphenolase and monophenolase activity of the tyrosinase enzyme thus proving its skin whitening potential.

context information

Āyurveda (आयुर्वेद, ayurveda) is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Āyurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Full-text: Sariva, Varṇya.

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