1. Insomnia

Insomnia gets us all at one time or another, whether it is the result of too much stress and tension, a poor diet or side effects of medication. While insomnia is common, the lack of sleep can cause problems such as a weakened memory, lack of concentration and irritability aside from the obvious tiredness! So if you can’t sleep, try this, the simplest yet most amazing of all the Ayurvedic remedies. It uses dates which help to balance the nervous system, and milk which contains a natural compound called bioactive peptides that assists in promoting sleep… blend one cup of warm milk with four to five dates and a pinch of cinnamon powder. Sip at bedtime.

2. Stretch Marks

I’m pretty sure we’re all agreed on this one – if there’s a way to at least reduce the appearance of stretch marks, we’ll try almost anything! The reason stretch marks occur is pretty simple - skin is made up of elastin which keeps skin supple; however over-stretching of the skin damages elastin which results in stretch marks. In women, this can occur during pregnancy, through fluctuations in weight and during the rapid growth spurts in teenage years. The appearance of stretch marks can be reduced with this traditional remedy; it uses lavender, chamomile and sweet almond oils which all have anti-inflammatory properties, and when used together are said to promote healthy skin tone. It won’t hurt to try it, at the very least, you’ll smell nice! Mix together half a teaspoon each of lavender oil and chamomile oil, and 2 teaspoons of sweet almond oil. Massage into skin.

3. Wrinkles

This is another one that we’re all going to face (no pun intended!). While I believe that wrinkles and lines are a reflection of the stories of our lives, I don’t think there’s any harm in taking a few pre-cautionary measures to prevent a story from becoming a saga! This remedy uses avocado which contains biotin and Vitamin E and is a natural hydrator. You could almost eat this! Try it, your skin will thank you. Mash half an avocado, mix in 2 tablespoons of fresh cream. Add 2 teaspoons flaxseed oil and 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix well, apply to skin, leave for at least an hour. This is also a fantastic natural moisturiser.

4. Thinning Hair

Thinning hair or alopecia is a condition many women face, commonly due to hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause, stress, improper nutrition or prolonged illness. It can be quite upsetting, and alarming particularly when the condition is chronic. If it’s a natural remedy you’re after, rather than the chemical laced products available off the shelf, you might like to try this Ayurvedic remedy. It makes use of cinnamon which is believed to stimulate the scalp and increase blood circulation, thereby promoting new growth. Slightly warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder and 2 tablespoons honey. Mix well, apply all over scalp and massage in. Leave for 20 minutes before washing your hair. The paste should be applied once a week.

5. Eczema or Dermatitis

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that can cause severe itching and discomfort. It is common among children, and can be caused by a number of factors including a deficiency in Vitamin B6, and is further aggravated by extreme stress, heat and certain chemicals.

This effective remedy uses margosa leaves (also known as neem leaves) which has many medicinal benefits. The Sanskrit name for this plant translates to ‘the curer of all ailments’ which is pretty close to the truth! If you have eczema or dermatitis, give this a try: Crush some margosa leaves to a pulp. You will need 1 tablespoon of this pulp, add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and mix well to make a paste. Apply to the affected areas.

6. Acne Scarring

This is another one that will affect most of us, unless you’re one of the privileged few who have managed to escape this affliction. Mostly due to hormonal changes during the teenage years, acne tends to be a phase that doesn’t stick around. Unfortunately the same can’t be said for the resulting scars and blemishes. This is a simple remedy that utilizes some very simple ingredients that combine to improve the appearance of scarring. Mix together 1 tablespoon each of honey, lemon juice and almond oil, and add 2 tablespoons of milk. Apply to acne scarred areas. You can also add a mashed banana to this for added benefit.

7. Anaemia

Anaemia is a very common blood disorder, especially among women. If you're anaemic, you basically have a low red blood cell count. These cells are vital for the delivery of oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Typically you might experience a lack of energy, dizziness, headaches, palpitations and hair loss, among other symptoms. The most common causes are iron deficiency and loss of blood, especially during menstruation. This remedy uses sesame seeds, which have long been used in traditional remedies, and are an excellent source of iron; and honey, which is known for its anti-bacterial and healing properties. You might like to try this simple remedy: take 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds, and soak them in water for 2 hours. Strain off the water, and crush the sesame seeds to paste. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the paste and mix well. Take this remedy 2 times a day until your symptoms are gone. It is easiest if you double this and make it fresh each day.

There’s definitely something to be said for natural remedies. These days we’re constantly hearing of the dangers of including parabens, lead, phthalates and other suspect ingredients in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and skin and hair care products. I think the closer something is to its natural form, the safer it’s going to be for me. What do you think? Would you try any of these Ayurvedic remedies? And do you have any Ayurvedic or natural remedies to share?