Long before serums and synthetic creams, ancient India shared its beauty secrets through Sanskrit texts. One of these is Haramekhala –Mahuka, a classical Ayurvedic book. It describes a simple but powerful skin-brightening lepa a herbal paste made from natural ingredients. When applied to the face, it leaves the skin soft, so soft, it’s said to feel smoother than the inner petals of a lotus.
Let’s explore what ancient Indian texts in Sanskrit revealed and how they formulated these timeless secrets.
Collected Resources from Haramekhala Mahuka
“When a lepa—composed of Jala, Phalinī, Bādara, Chandana, and Kāleyaka—is anointed upon the mukha (face), the tvacā (skin) attains such komalatā (softness) and snigdhata (silken smoothness) that it surpasses even the antar-dala (inner petal) of the divine Padma (lotus).”
— Haramekhala Mahuka Virachita, 1936. l(4): 94, p. 66.
this beautiful verse is from an early 20th-century Ayurvedic text or compilation “Haramekhala”- Mahuka Virachita (1936) and follows the poetic tradition of Sanskrit-based beauty science. It continues the ancient Indian practice of “Lepa” (herbal facial paste) for enhancing beauty.
Things You’ll Need
- Jala: Water (especially rose water or herbal decoction)
- Phalini: fruit-bearing herbs like Phyllanthus emblica (Amla)
- Badara: Ziziphus jujuba (Indian Karkandhu, Jujube/Ber fruit)
- Chandana: Santalum album (Sandalwood) Part used: Wood
- Kaleyaka: Coscinium fenestratum Part used: Wood
Note: “Kaleyaka” can vary in meaning depending on the region, but in many Ayurvedic contexts, it refers to the yellow variety of Santalum album Linn. (family: Santalaceae). A commonly used substitute in traditional practice is Coscinium fenestratum (Gaertn.).
Getting Started: How to Make Haramekhala Secret
- 1 tsp Amla powder (Phalini)
- 1 tsp Badam or Ber fruit extract / Jujube powder (Badara)
- 1 tsp pure Sandalwood powder (Chandana)
- ½ tsp Kaleyaka powder
- Rose water or plain water (Jala)
Method:
- Mix the powders in equal quantity in a clean bowl.
- Add rose water little by little to form a smooth, spreadable paste.
- Apply to face and neck.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Wash gently with lukewarm water. Use 2–3 times a week.
Superpower Explained: Why These Ingredients Work
| Ingredient | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Phalini | Rich in Vitamin C, brightens complexion |
| Badara | Soothing, anti-aging, softening |
| Chandana | Cooling, anti-inflammatory, brightening |
| Kaleyaka | Detoxifying, tones skin, reduces pigmentation |
ALSO READ: A Beautiful Ayurvedic Skincare Formula from Rati-Rahasya
Disclaimer
This formulation is shared based on classical Ayurvedic texts and trusted botanical knowledge. All ingredients mentioned are traditionally used in skincare and are generally considered safe. However, everyone’s skin is unique. If you have very sensitive skin or known allergies, we recommend doing a patch test first. In case of irritation, rinse immediately and consult a qualified dermatologist.
