Ayurvedic ingredients in dermatology – A call for research

Ayurvedic skin care products have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their natural ingredients and potential skin care benefits. This clinical commentary highlights the current state of research on Ayurvedic ingredients in dermatology.

Method

The authors reviewed the existing literature on Ayurvedic ingredients such as ashwagandha, turmeric, neem, sandalwood, tulsi and aloe vera. The focus was on clinical studies and in-vitro studies to evaluate the efficacy of these ingredients in skin care. The rise in the use of Ayurvedic products is driven in particular by increasing healthcare costs and reliance on natural self-medication in Western countries.

Results

In vitro studies: Show significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of plant extracts such as Epilobium angustifolium, Centella asiatica and Clitoria ternatea.

Clinical studies: Some smaller studies have shown positive effects:

Ashwagandha lotion to improve photo-aged skin and reduce transepidermal water loss.

Curcumin (from turmeric) is currently being studied in clinical trials for the treatment of neurofibromatosis and post-operative prostate cancer patients.

Potential dangers: Despite the popularity of Ayurvedic products, there are safety concerns:

Allergic contact dermatitis following use of neem oil and Ayurvedic oils.

Exposure to heavy metals (e.g. arsenic, lead, mercury) in some Ayurvedic products has been documented.

Self-medication and misinformation: The increasing prevalence of homemade sunscreens based on Ayurvedic ingredients poses significant risks as they lack scientific validation.

Although Ayurvedic ingredients have shown promising results in skin care, there is an urgent need for controlled clinical trials to scientifically prove their efficacy and safety. Future research initiatives should focus on implementing standardized testing methods and quality control measures to realize the full potential of Ayurvedic dermatology.