anokha skin care journal

natural brightener: licorice root

licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is also known as mulethi (Hindi) or yastimadhu (Sanskrit).  it is found throughout South Asia, the Middle East, and China.  its principle constituent, glycyrrhizi...

the rejuvenating gotu kola

gotu kola (Centella asiatica), also known as Indian pennywort and brahmi, is found throughout the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. the plant has slender, creeping stems, smooth round leaves...

ingredient focus: burdock root

burdock root is a robust and persistent weed known not only for its skin-healing properties, but also for its ability to ward off evil. burdock has small purple flowers which are underlaid with lar...

a tiny history of tea

the history of tea is both fascinating and complex. according to legend, the first cup of tea was created by chance (although we know that nothing happens by accident) when leaves from a wild tea t...

the beauty of bamboo

a symbol of longevity, strength, and flexibility, the bamboo plant is a valuable ally in the world of green beauty. found in diverse climates, bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants in the wor...

ashwagandha

ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a plant in the nightshade family. it is a plump shrub with oval leaves and yellow flowers which bear a small red fruit. while the leav...

amla: how a sacred fruit brightens the skin

the amla fruit is prized for its high levels of antioxidants and tannins, which eliminate free-radical induced damage of the skin. the high levels of vitamin C allow it to be used as a natural skin...

the amazing almond

the almond belongs to the rose family and is believed to have been transported in ancient times along the shores of the Mediterranean into northern Africa and southern Europe. they were a prized in...