Forest Essentials, Mumbai

What to buy here: Ayurvedic skin products.

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word, meaning “the knowledge for long life”. It also assigns a system of traditional Indian medicine, mentioned in the Vedic literature as early as the mid-second millennium BC. At its origins, Ayurveda adopted the system of the five elements that compose the universe and the human body inclusive, later believing that longevity can be attained by balancing the three fine energies, known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These energies account for all forms of matter (Kapha), the force and direction they move (Vata), and the transformations they go through (Pitta). The Ayurvedic principles (positive health, natural beauty and long life) applied in cosmetics aim to promote the harmony between physical, emotional and spiritual growth. Ayurveda is a all-rounded science, dealing with the beauty of both inner and outer. Various creams, lotions, gels and masks made out of pure herbs, sunflower, almond and sesame oils are available. All products are 100% natural, guaranteeing the long-sought balance of the body, mind and soul.

Price: An expensive line of lotions and massage oils starts at Rs 600 and up.