Have you ever considered that the vibrant blue flowers blooming in your balcony garden could actually make your skin look radiant? Yes, we are talking about the Aparajita flower, also widely known as the butterfly pea. These flowers are as visually appealing as they are renowned for their traditional and Ayurvedic properties. Ayurveda has long utilized them in various home remedies, and today, they are gaining substantial popularity in skincare and hair care products as well. The primary reason behind this surge is the presence of antioxidants, which can help shield the skin from external damage.
Health and Cosmetic Benefits
According to health experts, Aparajita flowers contain valuable antioxidant properties that can prove useful for both skin and hair health. Furthermore, a cosmetic study conducted on its properties revealed that the application of Aparajita extract led to an increase in skin moisture levels by up to 70 percent. However, this does not imply that applying Aparajita will completely erase facial blemishes. It is much wiser to view it simply as a natural, homemade alternative for routine skincare.
If your skin frequently appears dry and dull, you can easily try out a face pack made from these blue flowers. Preparing it at home does not require an extensive list of ingredients. You will need just 5 to 6 fresh Aparajita flowers or one and a half teaspoons of flower powder, a small teaspoon of honey, and a little bit of fresh curd. First, wash the flowers thoroughly and grind them into a paste. Then, mix in the curd and honey to form a thick, smooth paste. If you are using the flower powder instead, combine the exact same ingredients with it.
How to Apply the Aparajita Face Pack
Before applying any face pack, ensure your face is thoroughly cleansed. Gently apply the prepared paste onto your face and neck, taking care to keep it away from the sensitive eye area. Leave it on for about 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it off with plain water, followed by a suitable moisturizer for your skin type. Curd helps impart a soft feel to the skin, while honey assists in retaining natural moisture. Since every individual's skin reacts differently, it is best to test it just once a week initially and continue only if it suits your skin.
Making an Aparajita Night Serum
Aside from a face pack, you can also create a water-based serum at home using Aparajita flowers. To make this, gather a glass of water, a small teaspoon of flaxseeds, and 5 to 6 fresh Aparajita flowers, or a little powder if fresh ones are unavailable. Pour the water into a pan, add the flaxseeds and flowers, and let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes. Once the water begins to thicken and takes on a gel-like consistency, turn off the heat.
Allow the mixture to cool down completely before straining it through a clean sieve or cotton cloth to separate the seeds and flower residues. If desired, you can mix a few drops of vitamin-E capsule oil into the cooled liquid, though it is optional. Pour the serum into a clean, dry bottle. After washing your face at night, apply a small amount to test it out. Because this is a homemade mixture rather than a certified commercial cosmetic serum, always perform a patch test before regular use.
Precautions to Keep in Mind
Homemade skincare products do not contain the preservatives found in commercial market items, meaning they cannot be stored for long periods. The flaxseed-based serum, in particular, can spoil rather quickly. Always store it inside a refrigerator, prepare it in very small quantities, and try to use it up within 1 to 2 days. If you notice any changes in its scent, color, or texture, discard it immediately and avoid reusing old mixtures on your skin.
