Kewra water, also known as kewda or keora water, is extensively used in desi cooking as a flavouring agent. It is quite famous for instilling an enticing aroma to traditional North Indian dishes, be it spicy biryanis, ice-cold sherbets, delicious rasgullas, creamy paneer gravies and even meat delicacies from Mughlai cuisine.
Obtained from the extracts of the pandanus flower, this pleasantly scented essence also confers fabulous benefits for skin wellness. Abounding in skin-fortifying compounds, antioxidants and phytonutrients, kewra water supplies a cooling effect to tone the face, besides remedying skin infections owing to its anti-inflammatory traits.
Commonly called kewra or kewda in Hindi, the small-sized tree bearing many branches is scientifically referred to as Pandanus odorifer, belonging to the Pandanaceae family and termed as “Ketaki” in Sanskrit and “Kaithai” or “Thazhai” in Tamil. Otherwise known as fragrant screw-pine or umbrella tree, the plant produces bright white flowers in summer, with a rather appealing fragrance. It grows extensively in the Ganjam district of Orissa, in addition to other regions of India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Australia.
How Is Kewra Water Prepared?
Kewra water is prepared by a steam distillation process of the pandanus flowers, which yields a sweet-smelling essential oil, that is further diluted into a thin liquid. It holds a lovely odour similar to that of rose water, but with subtle fruity notes, due to terpenoid and ether elements. It is, hence, a popular ingredient in many perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, shampoos and aromatherapy tinctures.
Moreover, kewra water comprises generous quantities of valuable plant-based chemicals, namely phenols, tannins, glycosides, isoflavones, carotenoids. These work in synergy, to instil a soft, smooth texture and luminous complexion to the face, whilst treating a host of skin ailments such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Also Read: Eczema: Soothe Your Skin With These Amazing Natural Remedies
Read on, to gain more insight, into the amazing advantages that kewra water offers, for skin wellness.
Superb Benefits Of Kewra Water For Healthy Skin:
Cleanses The Pores
Kewra water is inherently endowed with a purifying property, to get rid of any lingering dust particles on the skin, owing to pollution, weather and other environmental factors. Gently rubbing your face with a cotton swab dabbed in a bit kewra water, ensures that any remaining dirt is completely swept away from the surface of the skin.
Remedies Acne
Bestowed with ample anti-inflammatory agents, kewra water is a fantastic organic product, to combat acne, dry skin, peeling in psoriasis, eczema and rosacea., which cause incessant pain, itching and scarring on the skin. The cooling features of this flower-based emulsion further soothe irritated skin, visibly lowering redness, swelling and restoring fine skin texture.
Revives Skin Cells
Kewra water is a natural toner, that opens up the pores on the face and permits the effortless absorption of nutrient-rich organic ingredients imbued in them as well as in moisturisers and serums, into the deeper layers of skin. Thus, it rejuvenates dull and sunken skin from within, giving a fresh and youthful appearance.
Provides Intense Moisturisation
Imbued with hydrating essential oils and plant extracts, that carry innate emollient and humectant characteristics, kewra water instantly hydrates dry skin. This means that the dewiness and water content that is lost during cleansing, exfoliating and exposure to external pollutants, are replenished by kewra water, in skin cells. This presents a pacifying sensation to the face.
Slows Down Ageing
Kewra water contains vast reserves of phenol and carotenoid antioxidants. These effectively eliminate the toxins, free radicals and other residues from the outer as well as internal, deeper layers of skin. It works wonders in minimizing wrinkles, fine lines, sagging in skin, to remarkably reverse the age-clock and reveal youthful, vibrant skin. Also Read: The Elixir Of Youth: Proven Ayurvedic Herbs For Astounding Anti-Ageing Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Kewra Water?
Kewra water is a scented, aromatic water extracted from the pandanus flower (Pandanus odoratissimus). It is commonly used in South Asian cuisine, perfumes, and traditional medicine.
What Are The Culinary Uses Of Kewra Water?
Kewra water is used to flavour a rich array of culinary delights, including biryanis, pilafs, desserts, and beverages. It adds a unique floral aroma and taste to these dishes.
Can I Use Kewra Water For Skin Care?
Yes, kewra water is known for its cooling and soothing properties. It can be used as a facial toner, added to face masks, or used in homemade skincare products to refresh and hydrate the skin from deep within.
What Are The Health Benefits Associated With Kewra Water?
Kewra water is believed to have several health benefits, including aiding digestion, relieving stress, and acting as an antioxidant. However, more scientific research is needed to substantiate these claims.
How Should I Store Kewra Water?
Kewra water should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is best kept in an airtight container to retain its aroma and flavour.
( This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurvedic Pharma Expert)
References:
Pandanus odoratissimus (Kewda): A Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Nutritional Aspects
Prafulla P. Adkar 1 , 2 , * and V. H. Bhaskar 3
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4408760/
Kirtikar K. R., Basu B. D., Blatter E. Indian Medicinal Plants. Vol. 4. New Delhi, India: Indian Book Center; 1991. [Google Scholar] Charterjee A., Pakrashi S. C. The Treatise of Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd. Vol. 6. New Delhi, India: National Institute of Science Communication; 200
