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Kadha, or a concoction of spices and herbs put in boiling water to harness their healing properties, is an Ayurvedic remedy advocated since ancient times to treat a variety of ailments. The science of Ayurveda is about diving to the root of a disease to find a remedy that treats the disorder or imbalance in the body rather than working only on abating its symptoms. A kadha made to ward off coughs for instance, is more than just a drink that gets rid of wet phlegm. It is also a remedy which boosts the immune system in a way that reduces the body's tendency to catch colds and coughs.
A similar function is performed by Ayurvedic kadhas used to treat skin issues. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such herbal teas are blood purifiers which cleanse the body of toxins, reduce ushna or heat in the body and improve the digestive system. All these factors coming together contribute to creating a balanced system that is reflected directly on the skin, the largest organ in the body. A kadha can have multiple positive effects on skin health along with enhancing its natural glow and reducing the tendency of breakouts. Here are some skin benefits of kadha:
1. Helps Anti-Ageing: Kadha slows down ageing by working on reducing oxidative stress which in turn reduces the risk of developing drawn, wrinkled layers of skin.
2. Helps In Detox: Detoxification essentially means ridding the body of harmful substances and arresting free radical damage which leads to glowing skin.
3. Helps Improve Digestion: Kadha regulates the digestive system, cleaning the stomach and keeping bowel movements regular, that has a direct effect on skin health.
4. Helps Reduce Infection: Sometimes, breakouts that can be the result of bacterial or fungal infections. Kadha helps to relieve oxidative stress, leaving the skin looking clearer and brighter.
5. Helps To Boost Metabolism: Digestion and metabolic rate are closely connected. As the kadha works on digestion, so too it improves metabolism and purifies the skin.
Kadhas are generally homemade Ayurvedic remedies that can be prepared with just a little bit of patience. While some kadhas are available in stores that sell Ayurvedic medicines, opt for preparing warm kadhas at home that act as soothers on a chilly, rainy day.
Read on below for 3 kadha recipes that will boost skin health, giving it a natural glow, making it healthy and free of acne or breakouts.
Turmeric And Lemon Peel
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties while lemon peel is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. This kadha boosts immune system, detoxifies the body and gives the skin a healthy glow.
Ingredients:
Grated turmeric root/ 2 tbsp of turmeric powder
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of one lemon
4 cups of water
Method:
1. Heat water in a pot and add turmeric powder or root. Let the water boil on a low flame.
2. Once the water reduces to 1/4th of its original level, add lemon juice, lemon zest and some honey for flavour. Sip on the warm kadha in the afternoon for glowing skin.
Black Pepper And Tulsi
Tulsi has healing properties that stave of bacterial and fungal infections. It also slows down ageing, reducing the tendency of developing wrinkles and fine lines. Black pepper aids in lowering inflammation and boosting overall immunity.
Ingredients
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp black cardamom
1 tsp grated ginger
5-6 tulsi leaves
1 tbsp honey/crushed jaggery
4-5 cups of water
Method:
1. Soak the tulsi leaves in water overnight in a few cups of water.
2. In the morning, boil the water with tulsi leaves adding black pepper, black cardamom and ginger. Keep the flame burning low.
3. Once the water is reduced to the level of one cup, take it off the heat and strain while pouring. Sip on this drink to relieve the skin of infections.
Cinnamon, Giloy And Tulsi
This kadha is a perfect fix to treat acne trouble, ward off skin infections and boost anti-ageing functions. Giloy helps to slow down the tendency of developing fine lines and wrinkles and cinnamon can work towards evening skin tone.
Ingredients:
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp giloy powder
5-6 tulsi leaves
1 tsp honey
1 tsp grated ginger
4-5 cups of water
Method:
1. Use the earlier method and soak tulsi leaves in water overnight. The next morning, boil this water and add cinnamon, giloy and grated ginger to the kadha.
2. Let the water boil on low heat until it reduces to 1/3rd of its quantity.
3. Strain the water into a cup and season with honey. Sip on this warm drink to reduce spots on the skin and to brighten it with a healthy glow.
