Formulating Ayurvedic

By: Emily Keats, Editorial Intern, Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine

Posted: August 29, 2008, from the September 2008 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.

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The company’s product line is formulated with ingredients such as saffron, to brighten skin tone; and vetiver, lotus and sandalwood-herbs that may reduce the appearance of acne scars, sun spots and age spots. A blend of costus and cardamom soaked in sesame oil and coconut milk is said to improve skin texture.

Additionally, a mix of herbs processed in sesame oil and milk with indigo (neeli), eclipta alba and gooseberry may soothe dehydrated hair.

Imported Ayurveda
Boba notes that the United States does not currently regulate ayurvedic products. Kama Ayurveda is imported from the Arya Vaida Pharmacy (AVP), located in Coimbatore, India. The pharmacy harvests organic and indigenous herbal ingredients that are tested by the Indian government’s Department of Science and Technology to ensure ayurvedic standards are met.

Boba does not foresee the United States instituting any sort of regulation or protocol for ayurvedic products. “It’s still a very niche philosophy,” she said, “too exotic for mainstream America.” Though consumers may want to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle, ayurveda may intimidate them as it is rather complex in scope. “You could study for years and still not touch on everything,” stated Boba.

Nonetheless, ayurveda’s notoriety may receive a boost as the natural and organic craze persists. “We’re demanding truth in labeling—we want to make sure the products we’re using were harvested gently,” said Boba. On a personal level, she added that she hopes Ayurvedic products are more than just a trend but a lifestyle change. “I’m excited and pleased to say that I see ayurveda as being a prime example of going ‘green’,” she concluded.