REVIEW ON CONCEPT OF VARNA (SKIN COMPLEXION) IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Ayurveda has given broad meaning to Varna by denoting a wide range of synonyms as Prabha, Kanthi, Rupa and Chaya. A lot of people concern about their external beauty especially about skin colour. The objective of this study was to enlighten the knowledge of researchers who seek to clarify doubts regarding the skin complexion and its comprising factors. As per Ayurveda, skin consists of seven layers. First is Avabhasini, it expresses all Varna and illuminates five kinds of Chaya (shades/ complexion). Varnottpatti is initiated from Garbhavastha, controlled by several factors after the birth. Panca Mahabhutha, Thridosa, Prakrithi, Garbhiniparicharya, Garbhini Manobhava, Thriguna, Athma, Sukra and Gothra are involved in formation of Varna during the Garbhavastha. Jataragni, Ahara, Dhathu, Sara and Ojas affect Varna mainly after birth. Behaviors and regimens like Nidra, Ahara Viharana, Sneha Karma, Sweda Karma, Thaila Abhyanga, Udvartana, Anulepana and Vyayama effect on skin complexion. According to the modern review, the complexion is mainly determined by the melanocytes and the melanin pigments that contributed by several factors as intrinsic and extrinsic. Both Ayurveda and modern sciences commented that the complexion is changed due to the involvement of behaviors and regimens including physical and mental states. It can be concluded that the Varna is determined by conglomeration of factors including internal and external. Though the Varna is mainly determined by the inherited factors, it can be changed due to environmental factors, behaviors and regimens. Varna can be improved by the following guidance and some treatment modalities mentioned in Ayurveda.