The Mystical Healing Powers of Ayurvastra: Uncovering the Secrets of Plant-Dyed Cloth

A friend and I traveled to Sri Lanka a couple of years ago and met with a family who owned a handloom business; the grandparents set it up many years ago in a bid to provide work to women across Sri Lanka whilst also promoting the heritage craft of handloom, which dates back thousands of years in the Country. We fell in love with their story and commitment to using only natural fibers (cotton, bamboo, hemp) and traditional methods of weaving with the handloom (these women have some strength!). Whilst there, the managing director and I got talking about natural dyes, they had been experimenting with Turmeric and were very excited about the results (understandably), and this led to reflections about the skin being our biggest organ and the benefits of wearing plant dyed fabrics for health benefits. This was why he was so excited about their Turmeric fabric, if you could absorb the numerous medicinal properties of turmeric through the skin via clothing, that would be incredible wouldn't it!

Two years later and I am circling back around to this notion of healing cloth, or Ayurvastra as it is called in Ayurvedic practice, a tradition that dates back thousands of years in India. Ayuvastra or healing cloth is mentioned in the ancient Sanskrit book Charaka Samitra and essentially is the practice of dyeing natural fabrics with plant materials and soaking them in oils, the essences of which then enhance health and wellness through their use. Traditionally, these cloths would be used for clothing, compresses and bandages, as well as wrapping around newborn babies to boost their immunity.

Unlike synthetic dyes that can be harsh and damaging, plant dyes are derived from roots, leaves, flowers, and fruits, which hold medicinal properties that can interact positively with the body. The fabric absorbs these plant-based pigments, as well as the plant essence, which can then impart their therapeutic qualities to the wearer. This aligns with Ayurveda’s philosophy of using nature’s bounty for healing and balance and symbolises an intimate connection between people and nature, something which i feel really passionate about.

Understanding the Healing Benefits

1. Skin Health

One of the immediate benefits of Ayurvastra is its positive impact on skin health. Natural dyes, particularly those derived from plants like indigo or turmeric, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Cotton or silk dyed using these plants are said to be able to soothe skin irritations and even assist in conditions such as eczema or psoriasis as our skin breaths in the plant's essence and healing properties. If you think about your experience of wearing organic cotton compared to polyester for example, it becomes obvious that what we wear against our skin has a direct impact on our skin health, so it makes perfect sense that the dyes used in textile production would also have an impact.

2. Emotional Well-being

The colours themselves play an important role in our emotional health. The psychology of colour has been talked about for years and it turns out this is just another way in which Ayurvastra or healing cloth can also benefit our health and wellbeing. The colours derived from different plants can influence mood and emotions in the same way that stylists have talked about for years. For example, shades of blue from indigo are calming and promote tranquility, while vibrant yellows from turmeric or buddleja may invigorate and uplift.

Therefore, wearing botanically dyed fabric can not only provide physical benefits but can also enhance emotional wellness through the gentle energy of color therapy - honestly seeing the beautiful soft hues of buddleja is one of those colours that just brings me pure joy.

3. Eco-friendly Fashion

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability (i'm hoping), Ayurvastra and healing cloth represents a return to eco-friendly practices. Plant-based dyes are biodegradable and non-toxic, making them a healthier choice for the environment and us as the wearer. By choosing Ayurvastra, we contribute to sustainable fashion, embracing a lifestyle that prioritises ecological balance.

Conclusion

Ayurvastra is a beautiful amalgamation of art, science, and spirituality. By choosing plant-dyed fabrics, we not only prioritise our well-being but also support the revival of traditional crafts, celebrating the harmony between nature and humanity - isn't this something we need now more than ever? The enchanting benefits of Ayurvastra are calling me to embrace its healing powers in my ongoing creations, hopefully offering a unique path towards improved health and deeper connection with the natural world both for myself and those who use my products.

Already, I am more consciously considering the plant dyes i use for certain products, to improve the benefits of combining them, whilst also excitedly planning some brand new products and their perfect dye plant partners...watch this space!

Echinacea Flower