Cosmetics & Health - Special offer

Centuries of Ayurvedic tradition in modern form – that's Indian cosmetics at Shalamar Foods. In stock: the most popular brands Dabur (Vatika, Amla oil, Honitus), Parachute (coconut hair oil), Himalaya Herbals (face creams, shampoos, toothpastes), Patanjali and Biotique. Classic Ayurvedic care includes authentic Rajasthani henna for hair colour and treatment, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, Vatika curry oil, amla (Indian gooseberry) oil and neem oil. In the health and first-aid section we carry Iodex (the traditional Indian muscle balm), Vicks VapoRub in Indian pack, Tiger Balm, Ayurvedic herbal preparations (Triphala, ashwagandha, giloy). For traditional Hindu and Muslim rituals we also stock Nag Champa incense and incense burners.

Main cosmetic categories

Hair care – oils – Parachute coconut, Vatika curry, Amla (Indian gooseberry), Navratna (cooling), Brahmi.

Hair care – shampoos – Dabur Vatika, Himalaya Herbals, Biotique.

Henna and hair dyes – Authentic Rajasthani henna (lawsonia inermis), indigo, neutral henna, amla henna.

Skin care – Himalaya face creams, Vicco Turmeric cream, Pond's, Biotique.

Toothpastes – Colgate India (salt, charcoal), Himalaya, Dabur Red (fluoride-free).

Pain and muscle care – Iodex (classic Indian balm), Tiger Balm, Himalaya muscle rub.

Ayurvedic herbs – Triphala, ashwagandha, tulsi tablets, Dabur Honitus syrup.

Incense – Nag Champa (best-seller), HEM, Satya, Padmini.

Key Ayurvedic ingredients

• Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) – Indian gooseberry, highest natural vitamin C content. For hair and immunity.
• Neem (Azadirachta indica) – natural antibacterial. For skin, hair, toothpaste.
• Turmeric – skin glow, anti-inflammatory.
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) – memory, nervous system calm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is real henna safe?

Yes, lawsonia inermis (henna plant) is entirely natural and safe. Beware of "black henna" – it contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine), a known allergen. Our henna is 100 % lawsonia, dyes reddish-brown.

Is Indian coconut oil edible or just for hair?

Parachute coconut hair oil is not primarily edible (may contain fragrance). For culinary use choose oil from Cooking Oils – Hempel, KTC, certified virgin coconut.

What is Iodex and what is it used for?

Iodex is a traditional Indian analgesic balm (since 1919). Methyl salicylate, eucalyptus oil and other aromatic oils – helps with muscle pain, back pain and headaches.

Does Ayurvedic cosmetics contain chemical preservatives?

Brands like Himalaya Herbals and Biotique use natural preservatives. Dabur combines natural and synthetic. For 100 % natural look for "Ayurveda" or "Organic" certification on the pack.