Botanical Ingredients List
A botanical ingredient is a constituent of a cosmetic or personal care product that is plant-derived. Plant-derived could mean either part of a plant, plant material or an extract. Some very specific ingredients derived from biological sources may often be classified by their chemical structure.
Upaveda sources botanical ingredients from sustainable greenhouse farms, organic farms or botanicals that are harvested from natural or “wild” habitats.
We will make contributions to this botanical ingredient list on a weekly basis for general knowledge and information.
Aloe Vera [Latin Aloe barbadensis Miller] - Recognized as ghritkumari in ancient Ayurveda, aloe is enriched with skin conditioning compounds, contains at least 7 to 8 essential amino acids and more than 20 amino acids which are required by humans. Highly valued for its anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and analgesic properties, aloe gels and preparations have been used for centuries to treat skin injuries (burns, cuts, insect bites, and eczemas). Aloe has miraculous skin moisturization effects and helps to enhance skin barrier functioning while providing firmness, smoothness and elasticity to skin.
Amla [Latin Emblica officinalis Linn Pennel] - Known as Indian gooseberry, amla is one of the most important medicinal plants in Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine. Packed with nutrients, it is a proven, powerful anti-aging ingredient that reduces free radicals in the body to reduce wrinkles, dark spots and lines. Supremely delicious to eat as fruit, Indian gooseberry contains high amounts of vitamin C, increases white blood cells while antioxidant and astringent properties help flush out toxins keeping skin clean and clear.
Anantamul [Latin Hemidesmus indicus] - Anantamul meaning 'Eternal Root' in Sanskrit, is also known as Indian sarsaparilla. An important ingredient in various Ayurvedic skin medicines, it is known to possess healing and purifying properties. Anantamul extracts have lots of antimicrobial agents, with roots that are rich in a mixture of antioxidants; a perfect detoxifying mix that helps in cleansing the body inside and out.
Ashwagandha [Latin Withania somnifera Dunal Pennel] - Lovingly called Winter Cherry, ashwagandha is proven to improve the quality of immune functions in humans. Often referred to as the 'Indian Ginseng', bioactive constituents extracted from the root of this small shrub include anti-stress agents, alkaloids composed of anahygrine, anaferine, isopelletierine, and cuseohygrine, and anti-inflammatory properties make it very useful for skin diseases. Ashwagandha is also useful in maintaining heart health, and it helps to strengthen the heart muscles by improving the blood flow, which is highly beneficial for skin health at the cellular level.