Eye baths (netra basti) can be used to rejuvenate the skin around the eyes and remove wrinkles. The procedure uses two rings of dough fitted around the eyes to form a dam. Luke-warm medicated ghee or oil is then poured inside the dough dam (enough to saturate the eyelashes) with the eyes closed. The eyes are then opened and may be rotated clockwise and counter-clockwise. Length of time for treatment depends on the condition and dosha disorder. Vata disorders like wrinkles may require six minutes of treatment daily.¹

An Ayurvedic treatment made from the herbs turmeric, manjishtha, calamus, sandalwood. and lotus mixed with milk and ghee and cooked to a pasty consistency is used topically to help remove wrinkles.¹ Modern research may explain the biological effects of two of these herbs that may be beneficial in treating aging skin:

• Turmeric, a clinically-proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, has been shown to enhance tissue repair in wounds.⁷¹
• Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) is a perennial herb that modern medical research has shown to be anti-inflammatory and good for stress relief. Traditionally it is known to purify the blood, promote circulation, and promote healing.¹⁵

The roots of the Acorus calumus plant (vaca in Ayurveda) are sweet-smelling and traditionally used to treat vata-caused skin conditions. Sandalwood is a fragrance typically used in aromatherapy to balance and soothe vata.¹⁵