Parent Diaries

When we think about children’s health, we often focus on food, immunity, sleep routines, and screen time. Clothing rarely makes that list. Yet, from an Ayurvedic and scientific perspective, what touches a child’s skin every day deserves far more attention than we give it. The skin is not just a protective covering. It is the largest organ of the human body, and in children, it is significantly more sensitive, permeable, and reactive than in adults. This is where fabric choice—and how it is made—quietly begins to matter. The Skin as an Absorptive Organ (What Science Says) Modern dermatology recognises the skin as a semi-permeable barrier, meaning it can absorb certain substances from the environment. According to medical literature published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Environmental Health Perspectives: The skin can absorb chemicals, dyes, finishes, and residues applied to textiles Children’s skin absorbs more per unit body weight than adult skin Infant and child skin has a thinner stratum corneum, making it more vulnerable The World Health Organization (WHO) has also acknowledged that children are more susceptible to environmental exposures due to their developing organs and higher skin-to-body-weight ratio. This means clothing isn’t just worn — it is experienced continuously. What Exactly Comes in Contact With a Child’s Skin? Most conventional clothing today is treated with a combination of: Synthetic dyes Fixing agents Chemical softeners Anti-wrinkle or anti-shrink finishes Studies referenced by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and OEKO-TEX® research show that textile dyes and finishes may contain: Azo dyes (some of which can release aromatic amines) Formaldehyde-based resins Heavy metal traces (used in certain pigments) While many brands follow legal limits, long-term, everyday exposure—especially for children with sensitive skin—remains an area of concern among dermatologists. This is particularly relevant for: Babies and toddlers Children with eczema or rashes Kids who sweat excessively or live in warm climates Ayurveda’s View: The Skin as a Gateway Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of life, has understood this connection for thousands of years. In Ayurvedic texts, the skin (Twak) is described as: A sensory organ A channel of absorption A mirror of internal balance Ayurveda holds that substances applied externally—oils, herbs, pastes, and yes, even fabrics—can influence the body’s dosha balance, body heat, and overall comfort. This belief is why: Medicinal oils are absorbed through massage (Abhyanga) Herbal pastes are applied externally for skin issues Natural fibres and herbal dyes were historically preferred for daily wear Clothing, in this context, was never seen as neutral. Why This Matters More for Children Children: Spend 8–12 hours a day in the same set of clothes Have higher metabolic heat Sweat more relative to body size Have immune and nervous systems still developing Synthetic fabrics and chemically treated textiles can: Trap heat and sweat Increase friction against sensitive skin Aggravate itching, redness, or discomfort This does not mean all synthetic clothing is “bad,” but it does mean that daily, prolonged exposure deserves thoughtful consideration. Ayurvastra: A Fabric Philosophy, Not a Claim Ayurvastra is not positioned as a medical treatment. Instead, it is a preventive, wellness-oriented approach to clothing—rooted in the idea that what rests on the skin should be clean, breathable, and intentional. Ayurvastra fabrics are traditionally: Dyed using herbal decoctions Free from synthetic fixing agents Made from natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, or wool Processed in a way that allows herbal residue to return to the soil From a modern lens, this reduces: Chemical load on the skin Environmental waste Irritation caused by trapped heat or residue From an Ayurvedic lens, it supports balance and comfort rather than correction or cure. A Gentle Shift in How We Think About Clothing Parents don’t need to overhaul their child’s wardrobe overnight. But asking a few simple questions helps: What does my child wear most often? Is this fabric breathable? Has it been processed heavily? How does my child’s skin react after long wear? Ayurveda teaches us that small, consistent choices shape long-term wellbeing. Clothing, when chosen consciously, becomes an extension of care—quiet, constant, and deeply personal. Key Takeaway Your child’s skin is not just covered by clothing—it interacts with it all day long. Choosing natural fibres and thoughtfully dyed fabrics isn’t about fear or perfection. It’s about respecting the skin as a living organ, especially during the most sensitive years of growth. At Miho, we see clothing not as fashion first—but as something children live in.

Winter is the season of warmth, cozy layers, and nourishing rituals. As the cold sets in, our bodies crave extra care—something that soothes, strengthens, and shields us from seasonal discomforts. At Miho, we believe that nature provides the best remedies, and this Winter Wellness Syrup is a beautiful way to incorporate the healing power of herbs into your daily routine. Crafted with antioxidant-rich Hibiscus, immune-boosting Echinacea, warming Ginger, and antimicrobial Cinnamon, this syrup is a simple yet potent elixir to support your wellness journey. Plus, it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives—just pure goodness in every spoonful! Why This Herbal Blend? Each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully chosen for its therapeutic benefits: Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa): Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, hibiscus helps support the immune system and promotes overall vitality. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): A traditional immune booster known to help the body fight seasonal illnesses. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): A warming herb that aids digestion, improves circulation, and keeps winter chills at bay. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): A natural antimicrobial that also adds a comforting, spiced aroma to the syrup. Together, these ingredients create a deliciously rich herbal syrup that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Winter Time Wellness Syrup Recipe Ingredients ¼ cup Hibiscus (dried petals) ¼ cup Echinacea (dried leaves or root) ¼ cup Ginger (fresh, chopped or dried) ¼ cup Cinnamon (sticks or powder) 3 cups filtered water 1 cup raw honey (or more, depending on the final liquid quantity) Method In a small pot, combine hibiscus, echinacea, ginger, and cinnamon with 3 cups of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it decoct uncovered over low heat until the liquid reduces to about 1 cup (approximately 30-45 minutes). Strain the herbs using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing out as much liquid as possible. While the liquid is still warm (but not hot), mix in an equal amount of raw honey, stirring until fully combined. Pour the syrup into a clean glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. How to Use This Herbal Syrup Take 1-2 teaspoons straight from the spoon daily for immune support. Stir into warm water with lemon for a soothing tonic. Drizzle over herbal teas, chai, or coffee for a warming boost. Pour over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes for a herbal twist. Mix with sparkling water for a refreshing winter spritzer. Add to homemade cocktails, mocktails, or mulled cider for extra depth of flavor. Embracing Slow, Herbal Wellness At Miho, we believe that wellness is a journey, and small daily rituals like this syrup can make all the difference. Whether it's through Ayurvastra clothing that nurtures your skin or herbal recipes that support your body, we’re committed to reviving the wisdom of nature in modern life. Would you try this herbal syrup? Let us know how you’d use it in your winter routine! #SlowLiving #Ayurveda #WinterWellness #MihoNaturals