The treasure of ancient knowledge, "The Charaka Samhita", is thought to be a collection of the most useful healing techniques from the entire ancient world.
This is one of the foundational texts describing the ancient science of Ayurvedic medicine. And although almost unknown in the Western world, one of the shining herbal preparations of Ayurveda is "The Wrightia tinctoria" plant extracted in coconut oil (please see reference to National Library of Medicine.)
The crushed leaves and leaf extracts in coconut oil were used in ancient times for such skin problems as psoriasis, dermatitis, even leprosy. A study using the extract of Wrightia tinctoria was published in The International Journal of Pharmtech Research in October-December 2010.
Health advantages of Wrightia tinctoria plant extracts are brought on by a range of phyto-chemicals, or naturally occurring biologically active compounds, known as "flavonoids".
Beta-sitosterol found in Wrightia tintoria was also utilized as a substitute for salicylic acid effective in relieving a wide range of skin problems. The plant also contains "saponins," which are anti-oxidant in nature.
Wrightia tinctoria's precise mode of action in relieving skin issues like psoriasis is still unknown, but Wrightia tinctoria may be useful for other needs, because the phyto-chemicals in Wrightia tinctoria extract can increase the skin's collagen formation.
The most prevalent protein in a human being's body, collagen, is constantly synthesized by body cells to repair skin. It is essential for giving the skin strength, durability, and structure. It keeps the skin tight and elastic and also aids in the regeneration and replacement of dead skin cells.
Products containing Wrightia tinctoria are definitely worth a try.
Always consult your physician to check for allergies. Ayurvedic herbal preparations contain real herbal extracts unlike most Western creams so be sure you aren't allergic.
An allergy test can be done by placing a small amount on the wrist overnight and checking for a rash in the morning.