Maha Kumbh, the largest festival of faith, is currently the talk of the town. If you are planning to visit the grand event, it's natural to have millions of thoughts running through your mind¡ªespecially about the massive crowds and the holy water of Ganga that everyone is dipping into.?
Well, if you are excited to experience the sacredness of Kumbh and eager to take a dip in the Ganga, yet you are a bit concerned about how your skin might react, then you are at the right place. Let's explore how you can enjoy the spiritual journey while keeping your skin safe and healthy! Mahakumbha, being the largest spiritual gathering in the world, attracts millions of devotees, sadhus, and tourists from around the globe.?
From childhood to growing up, we all have learned that our holy rivers hold immense cultural and spiritual significance, but do you know the health significance of the Ganga River? ¡°The Ganga River has long been revered for its spiritual significance, but it also has some scientific properties that may benefit skin health,¡± says Dr. Rashmi Aderao, MBBS, MD Dermatology, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.?
People in India have a strong belief that the water of the Ganga River has some extraordinary benefits. Even then, if we look at the past, the Indian emperor Akbar called the Ganga water 'the water of immortality.'. As per numerous researches, the river Ganga has an unusual content of oxygen in it.
1. Rich in Beneficial Microorganisms: Studies suggest that the Ganga contains bacteriophages, which are viruses that naturally destroy harmful bacteria. This property may help protect the skin from infections, acne, and other bacterial skin issues.
2. Presence of Minerals: The river water contains natural minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which are beneficial for the skin. Magnesium helps in skin hydration and reducing inflammation. Calcium supports skin barrier function and regeneration.
3. Anti-Microbial & Anti-Fungal Properties: The presence of certain minerals and bacteriophages may prevent microbial growth, reducing skin infections, rashes, and fungal issues. This could be why people traditionally believe in the healing properties of the river.
4. Oxygen-rich Water: Research suggests that Ganga water retains high levels of dissolved oxygen, even when stored for long periods. Oxygen is crucial for cell regeneration, promoting youthful and healthy skin.
5. Sulfur Compounds for Skin Detox: Some sources suggest that the Ganga has natural sulfur compounds, which can help in treating skin conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis.?Sulfur has mild exfoliating and antibacterial properties, which help cleanse and detoxify the skin.
6. Natural Exfoliation & Skin Purification: The fine silt and clay in Ganga water can act as a natural exfoliant, helping remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This could be one reason why many people feel a smooth texture and freshness after bathing in the river.
Though Mahakumbha has spiritual and cultural significance for the pilgrims, due to extreme weather, pollution, and constant exposure to the outdoors, the skin takes a beating. ¡°For Mahakumbha, the routine involves great exposure for hours together in the open sun, in dust, and near the river¡ªcertainly a setup for dehydration, sunburn, and skin infections, says Dr. Shitij Goel, Director-Dermatology, Sharda Hospital.
Good skin care is essential for skin health. A high SPF sunscreen, good hydration, and a moisturizer should also do away with dry skin and sun damage. Dr. Goel explains, ¡°The effects of the UV rays combined with pollution hasten the aging process, pigmentation, and tanning. Even though bathing in the holy rivers is believed to provide spiritual purification, it may expose individuals to bacteria and pollutants, which can result in skin allergies or fungal infections.¡±
¡°Antibacterial soaps, wet wipes, or even a frequent wash may help keep the skin clean and free from infections. Thus, soothing natural remedies such as aloe vera, sandalwood, and neem will help soothe irritated skin,¡± he adds.
To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow?Indiatimes Trending.People in India have a strong belief that the water of the Ganga River has some extraordinary benefits. Even then, if we look at the past, the Indian emperor Akbar called the Ganga water 'the water of immortality.'. As per numerous researches, the river Ganga has an unusual content of oxygen in it.