INTRODUCTION
Babchi seeds come from the Psoralea corylifolia plant and are used in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda and Chinese remedies. These seeds are known for helping with skin problems. They contain a compound called bakuchiol, which is now popular in skincare because it works like retinol but is gentler on the skin.
Babchi seeds are often used for treating skin conditions like vitiligo, eczema, and psoriasis, as well as for fighting infections and reducing inflammation. Some people also use them to help with hair growth.
Uses
Babchi seeds are mainly used for skin and hair care. They help treat skin conditions like vitiligo, eczema, and psoriasis by promoting skin healing and pigmentation. The seeds also contain bakuchiol, which is popular for reducing wrinkles and signs of aging, making it a natural alternative to retinol. Additionally, babchi seeds are believed to improve hair health by promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
Forms
Babchi seeds can be found in several forms:
- Whole Seeds: Often used in traditional preparations and can be ground into powder.
- Powder: Ground babchi seeds used in formulations for topical application or as an ingredient in herbal remedies.
- Oil: Extracted oil from babchi seeds, often used in skincare products for its therapeutic properties.
- Capsules/Tablets: Available as dietary supplements for internal use, usually standardized for specific compounds.
- Creams/Ointments: Formulated topical products that include babchi seed extract for skin treatment.
- Tinctures: Liquid extracts made from babchi seeds, used for medicinal purposes in herbal medicine.
Health Benefits
Babchi seeds offer several health benefits, some of them are:
Augments Skin Health
Laden with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Ayurveda recommends bakuchi as a powerful panacea to heal and remedy various skin conditions like vitiligo, psoriasis, acne etc. Owing to its blood purifying properties which helps in removing toxins from the blood, it helps in treating a host of skin infections as well. It not only helps in shielding the skin from oxidative radical damage due to the harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also reduces the risk of the various signs of ageing like wrinkles, blemishes, spots, fine lines, and dark circles. It is also beneficial for treating allergic conditions like acne, pimples, zits, psoriasis, scabies, eczema and many more. It is even useful in healing cracked heels.
Nurtures Hair Growth
Bakuchi is packed with powerful phytonutrients that stimulate the growth of hair roots i.e. follicles. Applying bakuchi oil regularly on hair and scalp vastly improves hair texture, thickness, controls hair loss and even helps in preventing premature greying of hair strands. Furthermore, bakuchi oil is a blessing for thwarting dandruff thanks to its antifungal traits, thereby resolving an itchy, flaky scalp and supplementing the growth of long, thick hair.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Babchi seeds help reduce inflammation, both on the skin and internally. This makes them effective in soothing irritated skin and may be helpful for conditions involving inflammation, like arthritis or general skin irritation.
Anti-Aging
The seeds contain bakuchiol, a natural compound that has gained popularity as a plant-based alternative to retinol. Bakuchiol helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging without the irritation that retinol can cause, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Antimicrobial Properties
Babchi seeds have strong antimicrobial effects, meaning they can fight off bacterial and fungal infections. This makes them useful in treating infections, especially those affecting the skin, like acne or fungal infections.
Wound Healing
Babchi seeds aid in wound healing due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. They help fight infections in wounds and reduce inflammation, speeding up the recovery process. When applied topically, they can promote faster healing of cuts, bruises, and other skin injuries while also preventing further infection.
Balances Skin Tone
Babchi seeds help balance skin tone by promoting even pigmentation. They are particularly effective in reducing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin patches. The seeds stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, encouraging the production of melanin, which helps create a more uniform and radiant complexion.
Side Effects
While babchi seeds have many benefits, they can also cause side effects, especially if not used properly:
- Skin Irritation: Some people may experience redness, itching, or a rash when using babchi seeds or products containing bakuchiol.
- Photosensitivity: Babchi seeds can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn or irritation. It’s important to use sunscreen when applying products with babchi.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, babchi seeds can cause allergic reactions, leading to swelling, hives, or breathing difficulties.
- Liver Toxicity: Excessive internal consumption of babchi seeds may affect liver function, so it should be used cautiously in herbal remedies.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Consuming babchi seeds in large amounts might cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea.
Note: Babchi seeds are never be used in raw form. Its appearance must be changed before using it so that it will pretend you from its side effects. Always consult a professional doctor before using it.