Stretch marks during pregnancy are developed due to the stretching of the skin. According to Ayurveda, stretch marks have Pitta (Water and Fire) and Kapha (Water and Earth) imbalance in them. Kapha involvement causes itching and Pitta causes burning sensation.
Pregnancy stretch marks can be generally be found on the lower part of abdomen, sides of abdomen, buttocks, thighs and on the breasts. Usually in few individuals these stretch marks subside own their own, however, there are a few herbs within Ayurveda that can help in fading and prevention of such marks. In addition to incorporating the below noted herbs, the key is to keep the skin moisturized to enhance elasticity, I particularly used a blend of homemade oils that I applied to my belly during pregnancy and was successfully able to avoid any permanent marks from my pregnancy.
• Gotu Kola – A potent herb used heavily in Ayurvedic Medicine, Gotu kola is known to cure a variety of skin conditions like scars, pigmentation, and rashes. This herb increases collagen production, improving overall elasticity of the skin and thus preventing new stretchmarks from forming. The best way to use is to make a paste and apply over the area, let it dry and rinse it off.
• Sage Oil – Sage herb has healing properties and applying oil on the stretch marks may help improve the blood supply in the area and promote faster healing of the overstretched skin cells or wounds due to cesarean delivery. Adding a few drops of sage oil in bathing water and soaking the body for around 15 minutes can be extremely beneficial.
• Karanja Leaves – Leaves of Karanja plants have antimicrobial, antioxidant and wound-healing activities which may help deeply hydrate the skin, keep dryness and skin sagging at bay and promote good skin health. Massage the stretch marks area with Karanja oil extracted from the leaves, let it dry for some time and then wash with cold water for best results.
• Apricots – High in vitamins A, B, and C, a paste of Apricots can expedite cell turnover. Take two fresh apricots and grind them to form a smooth paste. Apply the paste directly on the affected area and leave it on for half an hour before washing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat it regularly to see the desired results.
