Abstract

COSMETOLOGY IN AYURVEDA

*Dr. Nayana B.

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Abstract

The word cosmetics is derived from the greek word kosmetike which means technique of dress and ornament. In Ayurveda the concept of a direct relation between the beauty and health is mentioned widely. Cosmetics have been in use for thousands of years all around the world by ancient egyptians, sumerians, Indus valley civilizations, romans, greeks etc. Art of cosmetics in ancient India was at a very advanced level which is evident by plenty of references available in various literature including Ayurvedic classical texts from Brihathrayi regarding usage of various substances, procedures and therapies for imparting beauty to face, eyes, teeth, hairs and skin. Separate ganas are also mentioned by Charaka, Sushruta and Vagbhatta such as Varnya Mahakashaya, Eladi and Lodhradi. Various cosmetic procedures are scattered in ayurvedic texts ranging from the topic of Dinacharya such as face wash, oil massage, dry powder and paste massage, ointments etc. to the treatment of skin disorders and separate chapters describing cosmetic procedures related to post surgical care. Thus, cosmetology can be considered as an original part of Ayurveda since ancient times. This review is written by focusing the concept of cosmetology in Ayurveda.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Varnya, Saundarya, Cosmetology, Cosmetics, Cosmeceuticals.