5 natural lip colours ancient Indian queens swore by

Long before the glossy tints and bullet lipsticks, ancient Indian beauty heavily relied on natural Ayurvedic rituals and ingredients, which used to hold a sacred place in their vanity kits. Lip colour was not a commercial product at the time, but botanical extracts and natural pigments were used as beauty tools. Among these, natural lip colours were used on cheeks as blush and on lips as lipsticks. Here are 5 ancient lip-colouring traditions used by ancient queens long before the existence of lipsticks.

This was the OG lip tint used since ancient times. Brimming with betalain pigments, beetroot produces a deep red to pink shade, which is used to stain lips naturally. It is also used to hydrate and nourish the lips, giving a natural no-makeup-makeup look. Even today, many labels try to replicate the same effect that is created by natural beetroot.

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Derived from resin secreted by insects, lac was one of the most prized natural dyes of ancient India. It produced a glossy dark red pigment, which was deeply associated with ritual and royalty. Used not just on the lips, it was also used as an alta and as a mild blush on the cheeks, too. The richness of this soon became a symbol of sensuality and status in society and a luxury for some.

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Manjistha is a staple in Ayurvedic beauty, which is widely used in colouring and in skincare. It gives an earthy red to pink touch and is processed into pastes and powders to date. Manjistha is also known for its blood-purifying properties, which enhance the skin from within. Apply it with oils and ghee for smooth application, and it is one of the best picks for ‘clean beauty' limes.

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Not all ancient lip colours had a red shade, but some carried a soft and luminous shade. Saffron or kesar usually carries a delicate orangish-golden glow. When blended with turmeric and other limes, it creates a warm, orangish hue which looks absolutely stunning. It was used by brides and for queens who loved the sheer gloss touch.

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Flowers usually played a huge role in ancient Indian beauty, where petals of flowers like roses and bougainvillaea used to be crushed, where their natural pigments were then mixed with oils and beeswax to create a balmy lip shade. From bright red shades to soft pink hues, flowers were heavily used as makeup in ancient times.

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