Parent Diaries

In our fast-paced, modern lives, more people are exploring ways to incorporate wellness into their everyday routines. Miho’s Ayurvastra range, made with 100% natural fibers and dyed using ancient Ayurvedic techniques, brings a holistic approach to clothing. Today, we’re diving into one of Miho's unique blends – the Orange Blend, a color that does much more than just catch the eye. This blend combines Ayurvedic principles with the invigorating properties of orange hues, creating a garment that supports wellness from the outside in. The Significance of the Color Orange in Ayurveda The color orange holds a prominent place in Ayurveda and traditional Indian practices. It is often associated with the sacral chakra (Svadhisthana), which is believed to be the center of creativity, passion, and emotional well-being. Wearing the color orange can foster a sense of joy, enthusiasm, and warmth. It’s the color of positivity and inspiration, qualities that are essential for holistic wellness. Miho's Orange Blend Ayurvastra range captures this essence, using natural herb based dyes to bring out a vibrant orange that is soft on the skin and free from synthetic chemicals. Let’s explore the specific herbal ingredients and wellness benefits infused in this Ayurvastra blend. Herbal Ingredients in Miho's Orange Blend The Orange Blend is crafted with a carefully chosen combination of Ayurvedic herbs that lend not only color but also therapeutic benefits to the fabric. Here are some of the primary ingredients: Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, turmeric is a powerful herb in the Ayurvedic tradition. When used in fabric dye, it may support healthy skin, aiding in the management of minor irritations and improving overall skin health. Saffron (Crocus sativus) – Saffron is an exotic herb that has been used for centuries to brighten and soften the skin. It adds a golden hue to the blend and is believed to have mood-enhancing properties. This makes saffron-dyed clothing particularly comforting to wear on a daily basis. Annatto Seeds (Bixa orellana) – These seeds are often used for their vibrant color and are packed with antioxidants. Annatto can help soothe irritated skin and protect against environmental toxins, which makes it ideal for everyday wear. Madder Root (Rubia cordifolia) – This herb adds a slight warmth to the orange hue and is used in traditional Ayurvedic treatments to help promote detoxification. Madder root is thought to promote circulation and purify the blood, contributing to a general feeling of vitality. Wellness Benefits of the Orange Blend The herbs used in Miho's Orange Blend aren’t chosen for their color alone. Each herb is rich in natural properties that align with the body’s needs and provide benefits through transdermal absorption. Here’s how this blend can benefit you: Supports Skin Health – The natural antibacterial and antifungal properties of turmeric and saffron work together to keep the skin clean, reducing the risk of irritations and minor infections. Wearing the Orange Blend can be particularly helpful for people with sensitive skin or skin prone to conditions like eczema. Aids in Detoxification – Ayurvedic herbs like madder root are known for their detoxifying properties, helping the body eliminate toxins through the skin. The result is fresher, more rejuvenated skin that breathes easily. Promotes Emotional Balance – The orange color of this blend aligns with the sacral chakra, which is linked to emotions, creativity, and intimacy. This makes it perfect for people looking to enhance their emotional well-being. The color itself, along with the herbs used, creates a calming effect, making the Orange Blend an ideal choice for meditation and relaxation practices. Regulates Body Temperature – Miho’s Ayurvastra fabrics, like the Orange Blend, are breathable and light, keeping the body cool in warm weather and warm in cooler weather. The herbs in the blend help maintain body temperature, allowing the body to regulate naturally and remain comfortable in a variety of climates. Why Choose Miho’s Orange Blend? Our Orange Blend garments are designed with sustainability and ethical practices in mind. The process of dyeing and producing Ayurvastra is entirely natural, leaving no toxic residues. Even the residual plant material from the dyeing process is composted back into the earth as natural fertilizer, embodying the concept of full-circle sustainability. At Miho, we believe in creating a product that serves as more than just clothing. Each piece is an extension of ancient Indian wisdom, handcrafted by artisans who understand the intricacies of Ayurvedic dyeing. Wearing the Orange Blend is a way to reconnect with nature, revitalize your energy, and embrace a sustainable lifestyle that values the well-being of both the wearer and the planet. The Orange Blend represents our dedication to providing wellness through clothing, using the timeless principles of Ayurveda. Our garments are crafted to nourish the body, mind, and soul, offering comfort that goes beyond the physical. So, the next time you slip into the warm hue of an Orange Blend piece, know that you’re wearing something truly special – a garment that embodies the harmony of nature, tradition, and modern sustainable practices. Experience the benefits of Ayurvedic clothing firsthand by embracing the Orange Blend. This blend is more than just fashion; it’s a lifestyle choice for those who wish to wear their wellness and make a positive impact on the world around them.

As parents, well-wishers or guardians, we strive to provide the best for our children, ensuring they are comfortable, happy, and healthy. One area where we can significantly impact their well-being is the environment they grow up in through the choices we make regarding their clothing. With the rise of natural and organic kids clothes and sustainable ethical fashion practices, it's easier than ever to ensure your child's wardrobe is both eco-friendly, kind on the sensitive skin of the child and stylish. Here’s how you can make your kids' clothing cycle sustainable in five easy steps:   Choose Natural or Organic Kids Clothes Organic kids clothes are made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, bamboo and wool, grown without the use of harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It is also believed that by avoiding toxic prints, dye and trims on the garment, we can choose the most original and harmless version of clothing that is truly organic. This makes them safer for your child's sensitive skin and better for the environment. Organic clothing brands often adhere to ethical manufacturing processes, correct processing of waste, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers. Bonus: Organic fibers are often more durable, leading to longer-lasting clothing.     Explore Ayurvastra for Your Kids Ayurvastra, a traditional Indian practice, involves infusing natural fabrics with medicinal herbs. These clothes are believed to promote health and well-being, offering therapeutic benefits such as improved skin health, detoxify the body and enhance relaxation. Ayurvastra can be a unique, trustworthy and beneficial addition to your child's wardrobe, combining traditional wisdom with modern sustainability. Bonus: The use of natural dyes and herbs minimizes environmental impact. Both solid waste and liquid waste of the dyeing processes can be returned back to earth. Each garment is unique, offering a personalized touch to your child's wardrobe.     Buy Sustainable Kids Clothes Sustainable kids clothes are designed with a focus on minimizing environmental impact throughout their lifecycle—from production to disposal. Look for brands that use recycled or recyclable materials, practice ethical labor standards, and implement eco-friendly manufacturing and disposal processes. Bonus: Using materials like recycled polyester reduces waste and conserves resources while can also lead to disposal of microplastics into the water bodies. Reduced water usage, low-impact dyes, and renewable energy sources though surely minimize environmental footprints drastically.   Opt for Comfortable Clothes for Babies Comfort is key when dressing your little ones. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that keep your baby comfortable throughout the day above every trend, brand and style. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, silk, wool, hemp and linen are ideal as they are gentle on the skin and allow for better air circulation. Bonus Tip: Look for clothes made from cotton or bamboo for extra softness. Ensure the clothes are not too tight and have enough room for movement. Opt for reusable cotton nappies over conventional diapers as much as possible to avoid rashes and irritation. Leave your baby enough time to go commando!   What to Do with Old Clothes As children grow quickly, they may outgrow their clothes before the cloth itself wears out. Here are some sustainable ways to repurpose old clothes for a kinder better world: Donate: Give gently used clothes to local charities, shelters, people or families in need. Recycle: Many organizations, brands and industries accept old clothes for recycling, turning them into new fabrics or products. Repurpose: Get creative by turning old clothes into new items like quilts, stuffed toys, a keepsake, bags, pouches, cleaning rags and much more! Swap: Organize or participate in clothing swaps with other parents to refresh your child's wardrobe without buying new items. Sell: You can also consider selling gently used clothes online or at consignment shops to give them a second life. The concept is called thrifting: if you start searching for #thriftindia on Instagram, you will see 475k posts (as of December 18, 2021), and the number is increasing by the day. This only goes to show the rise of thrift culture in India and the world that is leading to consumers making more sustainable choices.    Conclusion Making your kids' clothing cycle sustainable is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your child's health and comfort. It is what will make the world a better plae to live in for the future generations. By choosing organic or natural kids clothes, exploring Ayurvastra, opting for sustainable brands and practises, and getting enthusiastic to repurpose old clothes by creative means, one can contribute to a greener, healthier society and world.

What is Contact Dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Have you ever used a new type of skin care product or detergent or worn some clothes only to have your skin become discolored and irritated? If so, you may have experienced contact dermatitis. This condition occurs when chemicals you come into contact with cause a reaction. The condition is characterized by red, itchy, and sometimes swollen skin, often accompanied by blisters or dry, scaly patches. There are two main types of contact dermatitis: Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD): It is the most common type of contact dermatitis caused by direct damage to the skin from irritants such as chemicals, dyes, soaps, and detergents. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD): This causes your body to release inflammatory chemicals that can make your skin feel itchy and irritated triggered by an allergic reaction to substances like certain metals, fragrances, and plants. Fig. how contact dermatitis can look like.   Effects of Contact Dermatitis on Children in India Contact dermatitis is particularly concerning in children due to their sensitive skin and developing immune systems. There is now growing evidence of contact sensitization of the pediatric population, and it begins right from early childhood, including 1-week-old neonates. The consequences of undiagnosed and untreated ACD in children and in their family can be severe. Among children with suspected contact dermatitis referred for patch testing, positive patch test rates have ranged from 14% to 70%. Of these, about 56-93% have been thought of current relevance.  Moreover, atopic eczema may be an important risk factor for the development of ACD in children rather than in adults. In the study by the NACDG, of those with a reactive patch test, children (34.0%) were more likely than adults (11.2%) to have a final diagnosis that included atopic eczema. Several factors contribute to the prevalence and severity of this condition among children: Environmental Factors: India’s diverse climate, ranging from hot and humid to dry and cold, can exacerbate skin issues. Pollutants and allergens in urban areas further aggravate the situation. Hygiene Practices: Inadequate sanitation, child labor in different industries and exposure to harsh soaps and detergents can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Children in rural areas may be more susceptible due to limited access to gentle skincare products. Cultural Practices: The use of traditional clothing and accessories, which may contain allergens such as nickel or certain dyes, can trigger allergic reactions. Diet and Lifestyle: Nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle factors can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.   The Impact on Children’s Health and Well-being Contact dermatitis can significantly affect a child’s quality of life. The persistent itching and discomfort can lead to: Sleep Disturbances: Constant itching and discomfort can disrupt a child’s sleep, impacting their overall health and cognitive development. Psychological Effects: Visible skin conditions can affect a child’s self-esteem and social interactions, leading to anxiety and depression. Secondary Infections: Scratching can break the skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections which can be serious if not treated promptly.   Protect your child's skin with these simple tips to prevent contact dermatitis: Choose Gentle Fabrics Opt for soft, natural fabrics like cotton and Ayurvastra. Avoid synthetic materials that can irritate the skin. Use Mild Soaps & Detergents Select hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products. Rinse clothes thoroughly to remove detergent residues. Keep Skin Moisturized Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers daily. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera. Avoid Known Allergens Be aware of common triggers like nickel, certain plants, and dyes. Check labels for potential allergens. Maintain Good Hygiene Regular baths with mild, lukewarm water. Pat dry and avoid vigorous rubbing of the skin. Stay Hydrated Ensure your child drinks plenty of water. Hydrated skin is less prone to irritation. Dress Appropriately Use Ayurvastra clothing for its healing properties. Dress your child in weather-appropriate layers. Create a Safe Play Environment Minimize exposure to harsh chemicals and irritants. Keep outdoor play areas free of known allergens. Consult a Dermatologist Seek professional advice for persistent skin issues. Regular check-ups can help manage and prevent flare-ups.   Ayurvastra: A Natural Remedy for Contact Dermatitis Ayurvastra which loosely translates to "Ayurvedic cloth," is a traditional textile practice that combines Ayurvedic principles with the process of fabric making. These garments are infused with medicinal herbs known for their healing properties. Here’s how Ayurvastra can benefit children suffering from contact dermatitis or prevent the chances of the same: Natural and Non-Toxic: Ayurvastra is made using natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, wool, hemp, silk - dyed with herbal extracts, ensuring that no synthetic chemicals come into contact with the skin. This is particularly beneficial for children as their sensitive skin is prone to reactions from synthetic fabrics and dyes. Healing Properties: Herbs used in Ayurvastra, such as neem, indigo, turmeric, and sandalwood, have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties. These can help reduce inflammation, prevent infections, and promote overall wellbeing and healing of the skin. Enhanced Comfort: The breathable and soft nature of Ayurvastra garments made from natural fabrics can reduce skin irritation and provide comfort, essential for children who are already experiencing discomfort from dermatitis. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Ayurvastra supports sustainable practices, which are beneficial for the environment and help in reducing exposure to pollutants and allergens in total for generic prevention.   Implementing Ayurvastra for Dermatitis Relief For parents considering Ayurvastra for their children suffering from skin related issues or extra sensitive skin, here are some practical tips: Clothing Choices: Incorporate Ayurvastra into daily wear, especially for items that are in direct contact with the skin, such as underwear, casual wear, sleepwear, towels and bed linens. Consistency: Regular use of Ayurvastra provides continuous exposure to the healing properties of the herbs, aiding in long-term skin health and wellness. Complementary Care: Combine the use of Ayurvastra with other skin care routines recommended by healthcare professionals, such as using gentle, hypoallergenic, non-toxic or fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.   Conclusion Contact dermatitis is a common yet challenging condition, particularly for children due to various environmental and lifestyle factors. Embracing traditional practices like Ayurvastra offers a natural, non-toxic approach to managing and alleviating the symptoms of dermatitis by simply implicating in everyday life. By integrating the wisdom of Ayurveda through Ayurvastra with other modern care practices, we can provide children with a holistic and sustainable solution for healthier skin and a better quality of life.

As a parent and well-wisher, we want to make sure that our baby is healthy and safe at all times. One important essential is the clothing that you choose for your little one, choosing fabrics that are safe and non-toxic for your baby's delicate skin is a must. And here is why: 1.     Babies have delicate skin Skin is the largest organ of ones body. It acts as a barrier from the outside world which also absorbs. Babies delicate skin can be irritated easily.  Choosing safe and non-toxic fabrics reduces the risk of skin irritation, rashes, breakouts, dryness and other skin problems. Synthetic fabrics like polyester can be harsh on a baby's skin and may cause itching, redness, or other reactions. Natural fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and wool are soft, breathable, and less likely to cause irritation or reactions. You can find these through researching online and reaching out to designer infant cloth brands. 2.     Babies tend to put everything in their mouth Babies explore the world and are learning to use their senses. They also learn by putting things in their mouth. This includes their clothing and toys. Choosing safe and non-toxic fabrics or garment is important because babies put their clothing in their mouth too. Fabrics can contain harmful chemicals might be dangerous if ingested. Natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are safe for babies to put in their mouths, as long as you ensure that their infant dresses are not treated with harmful chemicals. 3.     Chemicals can be hazardous to babies Almost all fabrics are treated with chemicals to make them wrinkle-free, stain-resistant, or flame-retardant. Even dyes used in colouring the fabric and printing contains tonnes of chemicals and can cause harm. Some chemicals have also been linked to health problems like cancer, asthma, and developmental issues. Choosing infant dresses or clothes that are free from harmful chemicals can help reduce the risk of these health problems. 4.     Safe fabrics are good for future sustenance Choosing safe and non-toxic fabric is not only good for your baby, but it's also an alarming need for the environment. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, spandex, acrylic are made from petroleum chemicals and are not biodegradable filling up landfills forever. They also release harmful chemicals into the environment during production. Natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are biodegradable and have a smaller environmental impact hence they provide a chance for better environmental future. In conclusion, choosing safe and non-toxic fabrics for your infant’s dresses or clothes is important for their health and safety. Natural fabrics like cotton, hemp, wool and bamboo are soft, breathable, and less likely to cause skin irritation. They are also safe for babies to put in their mouths when free from harmful chemicals. By choosing safe fabrics, you can help protect your baby's health and the environment.