A simple Ayurvedic concoction, shared by a beauty entrepreneur, is gaining attention as a potential secret for radiant skin. The recipe, which combines common kitchen spices like carom (ajwain), fennel (saunf), and fenugreek (methi) seeds, promises benefits from within. However, dermatologists urge caution, emphasizing that foundational habits like hydration and diet are irreplaceable.
The Viral Ayurvedic Concoction: Recipe and Claims
Michelle Ranavat, founder of a beauty brand, recently shared on Instagram that at 41, she has been drinking a specific herbal drink and noticed it improved her skin "from the inside OUT." Her recipe calls for boiling two teaspoons each of carom seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds with a cinnamon stick and three cardamom pods in two cups of water. The mixture is reduced by boiling for 5-10 minutes, strained, and sweetened with jaggery to taste. It is recommended to consume it daily on an empty stomach.
Soumita Biswas, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Aster RV Hospital in Bengaluru, supports the potential benefits of this combination. She explained that these spices are good for gut health, improve metabolic rate, and reduce flatulence. This internal purification process can detoxify the blood, which in turn may reflect positively on skin health. Biswas added that the seeds contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and help fight infections, while also combating free radicals responsible for wrinkles and age spots.
Expert Warnings: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Despite the promising benefits highlighted by the nutritionist, a dermatologist from Mumbai has issued important cautions. Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist, and Dermato-Surgeon at The Esthetic Clinics, advised that individuals over 40 should avoid consuming fenugreek seeds regularly without expert consultation, as metabolism tends to slow down with age.
Dr. Kapoor also pointed out that higher consumption of jaggery can lead to side effects like bloating, indigestion, constipation, and tooth decay. Her professional recommendation is to avoid relying solely on home remedies for glowing skin. Instead, she advocates seeking help from a dermatologist who can design a proper, personalized skincare routine.
"One should also stay hydrated, eat a well-balanced diet, and exercise daily instead of adhering to any herbal or home remedies as there is no concrete evidence regarding their safety and results," Dr. Kapoor stated, advising careful consideration before trying any herbal drinks or concoctions.
The Bottom Line: A Holistic Approach is Key
The discourse around this trending Ayurvedic drink underscores a critical point in skincare: there are no magic potions. While traditional remedies using ingredients like carom, fennel, and fenugreek seeds may offer supportive benefits due to their antioxidant and digestive properties, they are not a substitute for core health principles.
For sustainable skin health, experts unanimously stress the non-negotiable pillars of adequate hydration, a nutrient-rich balanced diet, and regular physical exercise. This Ayurvedic concoction could be viewed as a potential supplement within a broader lifestyle committed to wellness, rather than a standalone solution. Consulting healthcare professionals before making significant changes to your diet or skincare regimen, especially with age-specific considerations, remains the safest path to achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
