Herbal Cosmetics- Unlimited Scope and Opportunity in India

Abstract

Herbs have been used in maintaining and enhancing human beauty since time immemorial. Indian women have long used herbs such as Sandalwood, furmeric, Aloe vera, fleem etc., for skin care; Henna to color the hair, palms and soles; and natural oils to perfume their bodies. A large number of cosmetic and toiletry formulations have been developed based on Indian Herbs recenf/y. Apart from traditionally documented applications, some modern trials have also established the utility of Indian herbs in Personal Care Products. There has been a recent advancement, is ’Phytosomes’ as a novel cosmocevf/cal carrier, which enhances the absorption of the herbal constituent thereby increasing bioavailability. This antic/e also throws light upon the various herbs along with their uses and contribution towards the 6osmetic industry. The herbal cosmetics industry is experiencing a rising graph for its market and products which are being sold the world over. Herbal beauty products mere first introduced to the world may back in the seventies; today, however, there are a plethora of brands in the herbal cosmetics Indian market. Yet, the market is still growing and there is scope for new entrants who can deliver quality natural based products that will satisfy the consumer's requirements.