Chebula, scientific name Terminalia chebula, is a medicinal plant native to India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. Similar to an almond, chebula, sacred to the god Shiva, has been nicknamed the King of Medicine by Ayurvedic tradition and has been known for centuries for its healthy, hepatoprotective, antispasmodic, healing and calming properties. Nowadays chebula is gaining considerable fame for its anti-aging action for the skin of the face and for the hair.
Chebula, the cosmetic with anti-aging properties
Chebula extracts are rich in antioxidant substances, such as tannins, including the powerful chebulic acid, and flavonoids, which have shown an important anti-aging action, useful in case of mature skin or skin showing the first signs of ageing. In particular, chebula has been shown to be effective in counteracting free radical damage and photoaging caused by UV rays, thus reducing the early formation of wrinkles, spots, erythema and dehydration (Bulbul et al, Heliyon, 2022 - Manosroi et al, Pharm Biol, 2010 - Akhtar et al, Forsch Komplementmed, 2012). Not only that, chebula improves the complexion, making it fresher and brighter. In addition to these properties, chebula stimulates healing processes in case of wounds and is antinflammatory and antimicrobial. Thanks to these effects, the remedy is useful for treating acne-prone skin, but also psoriasis, helping to reduce erythema, scaling and itching (Jokar et al, JTCM, 2016 - An J et al, Cell Physiol Biochem, 2016). Studies have also shown that chebula can help counteract premature graying of the hair, with a darkening action, and that it strengthens and softens dull and dry hair (Jokar et al, JTCM, 2016 - Cathelin et al, Journal of Ayush Sciences, 2021).
Chebula, how to use it
On the market it is possible to find products, such as creams or serums, which contain, among the various ingredients, also chebula. Alternatively, you can buy chebula powder in the best specialized shops. In a small bowl, mix a spoonful of chebula and a spoonful of clay, add tap water or, even better, a hydrolate, such as rose water with an anti-aging action, in the quantity necessary to form a cream. Mix and apply to clean face, leave it on for fifteen minutes, then rinse and continue with your beauty routine.
Chebula, warnings
At present chebula, even if it boasts a centuries-old tradition, is a fairly new substance, since science has only recently begun to devote itself to the study of its properties. The benefits have been well demonstrated but long-term studies to evaluate the presence of any side effects are still lacking. At present, chebula is considered a safe and well-tolerated ingredient.
