PA01.32. Critical analysis of Varnya Dashemani - An ayurvedic approach to cosmetology

PURPOSE: Cosmetology is the branch, which deals with the Beauty treatment, and Skin care is a part of it. Due to the social cosmetic awareness in the society, there is increase in the demand and utilization of the cosmetic products. Most of these products contain chemicals such as dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, lye (sodium hydroxide), ammonia, and coal tar which are known to cause hazardous side effects to the skin like Allergies, photosensitivity and also Malignancies. This is a matter of concern in the society and alternatives have to be thought off in the form of safe and effective cosmetic agents. METHOD: Amongst the Fifty Dashemanis told in Charak samhita, Varnya Dashemani is one. Chakrapani in his commentary says Varnaaya hitam Varnyam, meaning that the one which enhances the colour complexion of the body is varnya. According to Ayurveda the health of the skin is dependent on Rakta dhatu, Ojas, and Pitta dosha. Any derangement in these factors leads to a cosmetic ill health. References regarding the drugs of ‘varnya dashemani’ are been found in many of the Nighantus where the authors have clearly mentioned about the detail pharmacology and pharmacothereupetics. Taking these factors into consideration critical analysis of these drugs has been done. RESULT: After screening the pharmacology of the drugs told in this dashemani we find all these drugs are rakta prasadakara, Ojo vardhak and pitta shamak. Also recent researches have proven them to be possessing Anti Glycation, Anti oxidant, Anti microbial properties which are essential in cosmetic health and skin care. CONCLUSION: Hence this study has been intended to critically analyse the drugs of ‘Varnya dasheman’, with an aim to provide an alternative to the harmful synthetic cosmetic products.