You must have seen so many ingredients that become a rage all of a sudden and become a staple in our skin care routine. Terminalia chebula is one such ingredient. There are multiple ways to use chebula for skin-related issues. Skin care enthusiasts swear by this ingredient for its immense skin benefits. So, what makes it so effective and beneficial? Is it really worth all the attention it is getting? Keep reading to find out.
In This Article
Terminalia Chebula: A Brief Background Of The Miracle Berry
Terminalia chebula belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is an evergreen plant native to the wild forests of South Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, and others. The Terminalia chebula fruit also goes by the name of Haritaki, Bihara, Harada, and Chebulic myrobalan.
The Terminalia chebula fruit is small, ribbed, and nut-like with an elliptical or ovoid shape. It is typically plucked for use when green but acquires a distinct yellow to brownish-orange shade when unpicked. Beneath the firm and fleshy layers of the fruit rests a single-angled stone that bears a convoluted and abrasive surface.
The fruit has been used for centuries as an active ingredient in the treatment of chronic ulcers, heart ailments, and dental caries. The Thai alternative medicine uses chebula for curing skin conditions and promoting wound healing.
In India, Ayurveda hails chebula as the king of medicine. In fact, it is one of the ingredients of Triphala – a common Ayurvedic herb that finds diverse uses in strengthening and nourishing the body.
Did You Know? Apart from Ayurveda, Homeopathic and Unani medicine books also mention Terminalia chebula for its multiple benefits.
Terminalia chebula has important benefits for skin too. We will discuss the same in the following section.
Benefits Of Chebula For The Skin
The cosmetic use of Terminalia chebula does not enjoy a body of scientific research and trials. However, several small-scale studies, preliminary research, and anecdotal claims support the use of this fruit.
Related: Glutathione For Skin Brightening: How It Works & How To Use It
1. May Help Slow Down Skin Aging
Shutterstock
Chebula has powerful antioxidant properties. It contains bioactive compounds like glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and vitamins C and E. In rat studies, the fruit was found to neutralize free radicals and mitigate the effects of oxidative stress (1). Studies show that oxidative stress may accelerate skin aging (2).
The effects of polyphenols derived from the Terminalia chebula extract were found to last long and be more effective than any other naturally occurring antioxidant (3). Polyphenols are known to protect the skin from the aging effects of UV radiation (4).
Related: 9 Most Common Anti-Aging Treatments To Get Younger Skin
2. May Help Moisturize Your Skin
Shutterstock
Skin hydration is key to younger and healthy-looking skin. Research demonstrates that chebula-based creams could boost skin moisture content and rejuvenate it (5). Another study found that Terminalia chebula fruit extract penetrated the inner layers of the skin and affected its complete architecture (6). This property may make your skin supple, firm, and smooth.
3. May Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
Shutterstock
Skin care products containing Terminalia chebula improve the skin’s barrier function. The fruit extract shields the skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UVB rays. It also stimulates collagen production and increases the thickness of the cellular matrix for further protection. The fruit can effectively combat photodamage while also reinforcing the dermal layers (7).
4. May Boost Your Skin Appearance
Shutterstock
Terminalia chebula can soften skin, even out its texture, and brighten its overall appearance. This is possible due to its ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate wound healing. Terminalia chebula fruit extracts were found to display anti-psoriatic effects (8). They could decrease skin layer thickening and improve the appearance of erythema, scales, and sores. The fruit may also reduce free radical production while leaving the normal skin architecture unaltered. Your skin appearance can improve as a result.
These are the important benefits of Terminalia chebula for the skin. But how can you make use of it?
Related: 8 Best Homeopathy Treatments For Psoriasis
How To Use Chebula In Skin Care?
Shutterstock
Terminalia chebula fruit extracts are used as key ingredients in several serums, pills, powders, and tinctures. You can purchase them in the form that suits you best. Follow the directions mentioned on the packaging for best results. Alternatively, you can also get creative and mix some Terminalia chebula powder into your face pack to boost the overall effectiveness of your skin care regimen.
Terminalia chebula serums are the most popular of all forms. Here is a quick step-by-step breakdown on how to apply one:
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Spray on some face mist or toner and let your skin absorb it.
- Apply three to eight drops of the chebula serum, spread it evenly across your face, and let it sit.
- Follow with a layer of moisturizer and some sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage.
Stylecraze Says Mix a spoonful of Terminalia chebula powder, ½ teaspoon of Multani mitti, ½ teaspoon of besan, and 2 tablespoons of rose water to form a paste. Apply it on the skin for 20 minutes to reduce pores.
You must ideally follow the above routine at least twice a day. Of course, you can skip the sunscreen while applying the chebula serum at night. But before you start using the serum (or any other form of the fruit), you must be aware of its potential side effects.
Side Effects Of Chebula For The Skin
The safety regarding the long-term use of Terminalia chebula fruit or its extracts is not well researched yet. However, the fruit seems to be generally safe in its various forms and on different skin types. In fact, preliminary research, as discussed, supports the beneficial effects of Terminalia chebula on your skin. While more human studies are warranted, using it on your skin should be safe.
However, conduct a patch test before applying it to your skin. Consult your physician before taking it orally.
Summing It Up
Terminalia chebula is an herb used across various Southeastern countries for the treatment of various heart ailments and skin conditions. Anecdotal evidence suggests that using chebula for your skin is beneficial in various ways. Its antioxidant and wound-healing properties may slow down aging, hydrate your skin, and improve the appearance of your skin. Chebula is available in the form of pills, face powder, and serums. While there is limited research regarding the safety of chebula, conduct a patch test before applying it.
While the information on its side effects is limited, we suggest you do a patch test before using it topically. Regular use of this wonder fruit can offer you pleasing results.
