Digestive Health | Natural IBS & Bloating Relief

Menopause is a transitional phase marked by significant hormonal changes. This ‘second phase’ of life officially begins one year after a woman's final menstrual period, however peri-menopause symptoms can start well before then. While symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, skin and vaginal dryness are common, an unexpected challenge is the onset of adult acne. Managing hormonal breakouts when the skin is simultaneously becoming thinner, drier, and more sensitive presents a unique dermatological challenge.   What is Menopause Acne? Menopausal skin changes are driven by the noticeable decline in female hormones, particularly estrogen. Estrogen typically helps stimulate a more fluid sebaceous gland secretion, offering an "anti-acne" effect during the reproductive years. As estrogen levels drop, testosterone, which is produced by the adrenal glands, is no longer masked and becomes relatively prominent. This rise in testosterone activity stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete a thicker form of sebum, leading to the appearance of oily skin and an increased tendency toward adult acne. This hormonal acne often manifests as cysts, whiteheads or breakouts, commonly seen as acne around the chin and jawline. Acne rosacea pigmentation may also change or become aggravated with menopause.   Why Does Skin Change at Menopause? The skin is the body’s largest hormonally sensitive organ, and its structure is affected by hormonal changes. Loss of Structural Integrity: The decline in estrogen accelerates collagen loss. Studies show that skin loses about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of menopause. Data suggests that estrogen is a protective factor against facial aging. This loss of collagen leads to skin sagging, loss of elasticity and skin lines. Thinning and Dryness: Lowered estrogen levels severely impair the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and a weakened skin barrier. Reduced dermal blood flow, partially controlled by estrogens, also contributes to the thinning of the epidermis and a slower cell turnover rate, resulting in increased trans-epidermal water loss. Pigmentation Changes: Estrogens temper melanin production. The lack of this regulatory effect can increase melanin synthesis in sun-exposed areas, causing brown "age spots" or hyperpigmentation on the face, hands, neck, arms, or chest.   How to Manage Menopausal Acne: Lifestyle  The primary difficulty in managing menopausal acne is that traditional treatments for younger, oily skin are often too harsh for mature, sensitive skin. Drying out the skin can worsen menopause breakouts. Prioritise Hydration: Because skin loses its ability to hold water, intensive moisturising is essential. Incorporating hydrating moisturisers, serums and cleansers, will support skin hydration. Antioxidant skincare botanicals, like Holy Basil (Tulsi) and Amla, hydrate the skin from within and help retain moisture.  Protect from the Sun: Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is crucial to prevent further skin thinning and accelerated collagen depletion caused by UV damage. Nutrition and Internal Balance: Fresh leafy greens contain vitamins and minerals to support healthy skin. Red berries support with bioflavonoids and other nutrients to support UV recovery and skin repair. Fish, nuts and other omega-3 rich foods are vital for reducing inflammation and maintaining skin moisture. Incorporating phytoestrogen-rich foods, like soy products, may help alleviate dryness and improve elasticity by mimicking estrogen. Stress management through mindfulness or yoga and ensuring quality sleep are also important, as stress impacts hormonal balance. Seek Professional Health Support: Your natural health care professional can support with hormonal balance. You may also wish to speak to your doctor about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).   Skincare for Menopausal Acne  A natural and herbal skincare approach can help provide a gentle skincare routine, whilst avoiding harsh, drying ingredients. Cleansing Strategy: Use a mild cleanser instead of traditional soap, or traditional acne cleansers, which can be too drying. Cleansing morning and night, along with regular use of a detoxing exfoliating cleanser can significantly help unclog blocked pores and ensure better skin hydration. Targeted Herbal Skincare for Acne: Look for antioxidant botanicals, and specialised ingredients with scientific backing to reduce inflammation, promote balance, and support skin renewal: Bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative used in Ayurvedic skincare treatments, offers anti-aging and anti-acne benefits without the irritation or sun sensitivity associated with traditional retinol. Syntenol A is a specialsed form of Backuchiol with clinical studies showing it is just as effective as retinol without the stinging or flaking associated with retinol. Emblica, amla (gooseberry), specialised extract with enhanced antioxidant capabilities, shown to effectively reduce skin irritation and promote skin tone, lightening dark spots. Ayurvedi, specialised Tulsi for skincare, also known as holy basil, is rich in polyphenols. Tulsi is a wholistic well-ageing herbal skincare that protects the skin from environmental and other stresses, helping to restore skin balance. It boosts cell energy to increase cellular renewal, illuminating the skin.    The AyurScience Beauty Purity Range four-step approach is designed for oily, blemished, or problematic skin, perfect for menopausal skin changes: Foaming Gel Cleanser: A daily exfoliating cleanser containing Alpha Hydroxy Fruit Acids (AHAs) acne reduction exfoliation, along with anti-inflammatory botanicals such as Amla, Holy Basil (Tulsi), and Ginger. Use morning and evening. Blemish Spot Treatment: A corrective serum formulated with Bakuchiol, Ginger, and Frankincense that visibly calms redness and irritation, and balances the skin. Hydrating Lotion: Daily lightweight moisturiser that absorbs surface oil and hydrates. It features Bakuchiol (a plant-based retinol alternative) and anti-inflammatory Turmeric. Purifying Mask: A cooling crème clay mask containing Amla, Holy Basil (Tulsi), Turmeric, and Bakuchiol to deeply detoxify and calm the skin. Gentle exfoliation to support for enhanced moisturising benefits when combined as a part of the full skincare ritual.   Why Use Plant-Based Skincare? Plant-based skincare is primarily formulated with plant ingredients like herbs, fruits, seeds and essential oil, rather than synthetic chemicals or animal-derived substances. Plant-based skincare incorporates the best from natural skincare and herbal skincare, created with science innovation and traditional knowledge. Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing, emphasises the use of plant-based ingredients to nurture the skin and restore vitality, aligning with the need for gentle care during menopause. Gentle on the skin: Bakuchiol: This plant-based ingredient is a potent antioxidant that offers benefits similar to retinol (improving acne, blemishes, fine lines) but is well-tolerated by troubled or sensitive skin and does not cause sun sensitivity. Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals: Ingredients commonly used include Holy Basil (Tulsi), which helps reduce skin redness and inflammation, and Turmeric, celebrated for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that soothe irritated skin and inflammatory conditions like acne. Rich in nutrients and skin benefits: For example Pure-phen (frankincense) promotes wound-healing, skin regeneration and helps smooth skin roughness related to acne. Plant-based skincare ingredients are packed with collagen boosting vitamins, skin healing antioxidants, and moisturising essential fatty acids. These nutrients work in synergy to nourish, heal and protect the skin. For example natural vitamin C skincare helps to heal and protect the skin, and amla contains 20x the vitamin C than from oranges.   Menopause is a natural evolution, not a setback — and with the right balance of nourishment, mindfulness, and plant-powered skincare, your skin can continue to glow with vitality through every stage of change.

What is Glass Skin? Healthy, naturally radiant skin, as clear and smooth as polished glass, is a global beauty phenomenon. This "glass skin" trend, originating from K-Beauty, describes a complexion so clear, smooth, and pore-less it appears translucent. It signifies ultra-hydrated, even-toned, texture-free, and refined skin that is luminous and glossy, yet fresh and never oily or greasy. How to achieve glass skin? The goal of glass skin is to achieve a smooth complexion free of bumps, deeply hydrated skin with a cushiony layer beneath the surface, and a springy, plump feel with a dewy look. Achieving this involves a dedicated and consistent skincare approach, focusing on gentle care and layering lightweight, hydrating, and nourishing antioxidant products. How to achieve luminous ‘glass skin’ at any age: Step 1: Deep Cleansing and Gentle Exfoliation The first crucial step is to thoroughly cleanse the skin of impurities, excess oil, and dead skin cells, creating a clear and smooth canvas. Double cleansing, both morning and night, is highly recommended to remove all pore-clogging debris. Gentle exfoliation is also vital for improving texture and radiance without damaging the skin barrier. Daily Cleansing: Choose AyurScience Beauty CLARITY Brightening Crème Cleanser (ideal for pigmented skin, also brightens with saffron, sandalwood, and Gotu Kola for smoother, luminous skin) or AyurScience Beauty PURITY Foaming Gel Cleanser. Both feature the AyurActive™ Amla-Tulsi (Holy Basil) complex, a powerful antioxidant combination where Amla brightens and protects, and Tulsi reduces redness and inflammation. The PURITY Cleanser specifically contains Frankincense and Ginger (Pure-Phen®) which soothe skin redness, improve skin texture, are antibacterial, promote wound-healing, and help rebalance skin microbiota. Exfoliate and Detoxify (regularly & gently): Regular, gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells and keeps pores clear, enhancing skin texture and radiance. Avoid over-exfoliation to prevent damage, dryness, irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Gently detoxify with Ayurvedic herbs like Tulsi. For Blemish-Prone Skin: Use AyurScience Beauty Purity Purifying Mask with antibacterial herbs like Manjistha and Tulsi to deeply cleanse and rebalance. For Pigmentation or Redness: Opt for AyurScience Beauty Clarity Energising Mask, which features K-beauty WhiteTen™ – a blend of 10 herbal and vitamin-rich ingredients including Vitamin C, Niacinamide (B3), and Ayurvedic botanical skincare to reduce skin pigmentation, like age-spots, face redness, and uneven skin tone. Glass Skin Tip: For additional gentle exfoliation and brightening, incorporate products containing Alpha Hydroxy Fruit Acids (AHAs / ACB Fruit Mix), such as the AyurScience Beauty CLARITY Energising Mask or CLARITY Radiance Serum. These AHAs exfoliate for smoother, brighter skin and act as de-pigmenting agents. Step 2: Brighten & Hydrate Moisturising and replenishing the skin's lipid layer, providing nutrients, antioxidants, and lipids to lock in moisture while allowing the skin to breathe. Serums deliver high concentrations of active ingredients to target brightness, hydration, and anti-ageing. Look for ingredients like Vitamin C for skin and Niacinamide (B3) to diminish dark spots and boost collagen, along with Bakuchiol (plant-based retinol) and Peptides to smooth wrinkles and promote cell renewal. Deep Nurturing: AyurScience Beauty Clarity Radiance Serum offers deep penetration and nurturing, containing WhiteTen™, AHAs, and other plant-based skincare to help lighten and brighten pigmentation, reduce redness, and provide calm. Targeted Treatments: The AyurScience Beauty PURITY Blemish Spot Treatment includes Amla, Tulsi, Bakuchiol, Ginger, and Frankincense to calm blemishes, reduce redness, and decongest skin. The AyurScience Beauty PURITY Hydrating Lotion features Bakuchiol as a natural retinol alternative to improve acne, blemishes, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation without irritation. Step 3: Nourish & Protect Seal in the benefits with skin-promoting, antioxidant-powered moisturisers to keep skin plump and supple. Avoid mattifying finishes to maintain the glossy glass skin look. AyurScience Moisturisers: AyurScience Beauty PURITY Hydrating Lotion features Bakuchiol as a natural retinol alternative for improving acne, blemishes, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation without irritation. It's a lightweight, fast-absorbing option with Amla, Tulsi, Bakuchiol, Turmeric, Frankincense, Ginger, and Manjistha for hydration, soothing, and barrier support. AyurScience Beauty CLARITY Even Skin Tone Moisturiser provides Amla, Tulsi, Saffron, Manjistha, Gotu Kola, and Sandalwood to even skin tone, strengthen the skin's surface, and deliver a radiant complexion. Lifestyle Tips for Flawless Glass Skin Healthy living is the best promoter of glass skin. Support your gut-skin axis, reduce inflammation, and hydrate from within. Skin Health from Within: Start your day with lemon juice in water, eat healthy, fresh foods while avoiding processed foods, take care of your digestion and gut health, and address any underlying inflammation. Sun Protection: Use sun protection daily and support skin recovery with antioxidant skincare. Look for antioxidants: AyurScience Beauty incorporates numerous antioxidant-rich ingredients like Amla, Tulsi, Saffron, and Turmeric that help defend against free radical exposure. Ashwagandha specifically may provide help against artificial blue light from screens, which is also important for maintaining skin health. Hydrate Throughout the Day: Refresh your skin with a facial mist to maintain a glassy look, and drink water! Beauty Sleep: Prioritise adequate rest and sleep. Regular Exfoliation Masks: Incorporate masks more frequently (even an extra session a week) to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin. Avoid Inflammatory Foods: Minimise high-sugar items, refined carbohydrates, and potentially excessive dairy or salty snacks, which can trigger inflammation, breakouts, and dullness. By combining these consistent skincare steps with efficacious products and a healthy lifestyle, you can embark on a journey towards achieving a radiant complexion that truly reflects the essence of "glass skin".

How to ease stiffness and inflammation naturally and keep doing what you love! If you haven’t exercised in a while you’d know the feeling of body ache and pains. It’s natural to feel aches, stiffness and pain after injury, with aging or after periods of inactivity. But pain doesn’t have to be your new normal. Movement and exercise are critical for our wellbeing (and help keep us younger). Whether it's walking, gardening, dancing or doing the sport you love, it is important to keep moving. Understandably joint stiffness, muscle tension, and mild pain makes movement more difficult, and less enjoyable. While pharmaceutical options may be needed, natural help for pain management may also be helpful to incorporate, providing support and working with the body to reduce inflammation and improve mobility. What causes pain in the joints? Painful joints are usually associated with inflammation. There are two types of joint pain and swelling. 1.      Acute joint pain and swelling comes on quickly and doesn’t last for too long. This may be a result of an injury or infection. It is important to speak to your healthcare professional about any sudden pain or swelling so it is treated effectively. 2.      Chronic joint and muscle pain usually comes on gradually and has some underlying cause such as a chronic inflammatory condition, or due to long-standing structural damage, such as osteoarthritis. The elbows, wrists, shoulders, the base of the spine, hand joints, hips, knees and ankles are the most commonly affected joints for pain and swelling. Joint discomfort is linked to chronic low-grade inflammation, which becomes more common with age. According to Harvard Health Publishing, inflammation is a key contributor to joint pain, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis. Factors such as inactivity, stress, repetitive strain, and poor nutrition can worsen this inflammation, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility. This guide explores how Ayurvedic herbal medicine, self-massage, gentle movement, and digestive support can help you move more freely and feel more like yourself again. Remember to also speak to your healthcare provider, including your naturopath or Ayurvedic practitioner, on what is best for you. Why Use Natural Joint Pain Relief? Natural approaches to pain relief generally don’t just treat the symptoms. The aim is to address the underlying contributors and triggers to help body aches and pains. Working with the body to balance inflammation, poor circulation and address imbalance. Using lifestyle, healthy dietary choices, herbal supplements and physical therapies, like massage and yoga, can significantly improve joint health and reduce inflammatory load. 1.      Massage: stimulating circulation and relieving tension Releasing tense muscles not only feels good but also allows for circulation and lymphatic drainage. Healthy circulation allows for nutrients to get to damaged joint areas, and also allows for toxin removal, supporting the body’s natural healing process. Professional regular massage and physical therapies is something that can help relieve joint pain. Self-massage can also be easily incorporated as a daily practice. ‘Abhyanga’, a warm oil self-massage is a powerful tool used in Ayurveda traditional medicine practice.  Translating to “move different”, this daily practice of self-massage supports circulation, reduces inflammation, and calms the nervous system. Abhyanga is also called snehana, which means “to nurture or love.” Traditionally Abhyanga massage is done with herbal infused oils which are thought to penetrate the skin, providing relief to joints and muscles. Using a warming herbal oil like AyurScience De-Ache, infused with traditional herbs such as turmeric and ashwagandha, along with essential oils to stimulate circulation, like cedarwood,  help relieve muscle tension and support joint flexibility. 2.      Move Gently and Consistently Pain often discourages movement, but gentle activity is essential for keeping joint health, supporting cardiovascular health and wellbeing. The Mayo Clinic recommends regular exercise, suggesting range of motion exercises along with aerobic exercise, depending on individual needs. Exercise to consider include walking, swimming, yoga, Tai Chi and stretching. Here are some suggestions to try: ·         Gentle yoga: Poses like cat-cow, seated twists, and supported bridge help lubricate joints and ease tension. ·         Walking: A 20-minute walk boosts circulation and mood. ·         Breathwork: Deep breathing calms the nervous system and reduces pain perception. 3.      Natural Supplements to Manage Inflammation Natural herbal supplements can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Curcumin found in turmeric has been shown to inhibit inflammatory enzymes. Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, helps reduce swelling and improve joint function. Ayurvedic herbs such as ginger, galangal, and ashwagandha are traditionally used to support muscle recovery and reduce inflammation. AyurScience Re-moov complex combines these anti-inflammatory herbs traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support joint comfort and help reduce mild joint pain. 4.      Support with anti-inflammatory diet One of the best ways to fight inflammation can be in what you eat, confirms Havard Health, with an anti-inflammatory diet. What does an anti-inflammatory diet do? Simply it helps modulate inflammation by reducing consumption of foods that trigger inflammation and also eating foods that reduce pro-inflammatory agents from being produced. Processed and refined foods trigger and contribute to inflammation, while vegetables and fresh foods decrease it. A more vegetarian diet, with oily fish, is good to support healthy inflammation management.   What foods to avoid for inflammation? ·         Refined carbohydrates e.g. sweet foods like white bread, cake, confectionary, sugar ·         Soft drinks and sugar beverages ·         Fatty and fried foods such as chips, margarine ·         Red meat ·         Processed meats (such as salami, hot dogs etc.)   What foods have anti-inflammatory benefit? ·         Healthy omega-3 oils including fatty fish such as wild harvested salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines. ·         Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and rocket ·         Nuts like almonds and walnuts. ·         Fruits including pineapple and papaya. ·         Opt for healthy oils such as olive oil. ·         Incorporate anti-inflammatory spices and herbs into your diet: turmeric, ginger and galangal, also used in Ayurveda and Western herbal medicine, can be used in cooking and meals to help moderate inflammation. In Ayurveda the gut is central to health. Ayurveda notes that when digestion is weak, toxins (ama) accumulate, leading to inflammation and even joint stiffness. Pain doesn’t have to limit your lifestyle. With a few simple, natural practices, you can reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and enjoy the freedom of movement—just in time for spring. Start small: a short walk, a warm oil massage, or a turmeric tea can make a meaningful difference. Over time, these habits build resilience, vitality, and a deeper connection to your body’s natural rhythm.