Ayurvedic Daily Routine: Dinacharya Certification Course, Section 12, Lecture 91
Introduction
Homemade Anjan (Kajal) has been a part of traditional Ayurveda for centuries. It is believed to have cooling properties, enhance eye health, and protect against infections. Many people prefer making Anjan at home using natural ingredients like mustard oil, ghee, and camphor. However, proper storage is key to maintaining its purity and effectiveness over time.
In this blog, we’ll explore how long you can store homemade Anjan. We’ll discuss the best storage methods. We’ll also identify signs to watch out for when it starts to go bad. We’ll also dive into the differences between mustard oil-based Anjan and ghee-based Anjan and their respective shelf lives.
So, let’s get started!
Storing Mustard Oil-Based Anjan
How Long Does It Last?
If you’ve made Anjan using mustard oil, you can store it for up to six months at room temperature without any issues. However, this depends on your climate. In cooler regions, mustard oil-based Anjan may last even longer, while in hot and humid conditions, it may degrade faster.
Signs of Spoilage
It’s crucial to check your Anjan regularly. Here are some tell-tale signs that your mustard oil-based Anjan has gone bad:
- Foul Smell: Fresh Anjan has a neutral or mild scent. If you notice a rancid or sour smell, it’s time to discard it.
- Change in Texture: If the Anjan becomes too dry, sticky, or lumpy, it may have been contaminated.
- Mold Growth: In humid climates, improper storage may lead to fungal growth on the surface.
- Unusual Color: If the Anjan darkens beyond its original shade or has white or greenish spots, it could be a sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
- Keep it in an airtight container to prevent dust and moisture contamination.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- If you live in a hot and humid climate, consider refrigerating it. But remember to let it come to room temperature before use, as applying cold Anjan to the eyes can be uncomfortable.
Storing Ghee-Based Anjan
How Long Does It Last?
Anjan made with pure ghee and camphor is far more stable and long-lasting compared to mustard oil-based Anjan. In fact, it gets better with time! If you use high-quality ghee, it does not spoil and can be stored for years without any issues.
Why Does Ghee-Based Anjan Last Longer?
- Ghee does not rot easily if it is of good quality and stored properly.
- Camphor acts as a natural preservative, further increasing its longevity.
- Unlike mustard oil, ghee does not turn rancid quickly when stored correctly.
Best Storage Practices
- Store it in a clean, dry container to prevent contamination.
- Do not refrigerate; ghee-based Anjan should be kept at room temperature.
- Ensure the storage area is free from moisture to avoid fungal growth.
- Use a dry spoon or applicator each time you take out Anjan to prevent introducing bacteria.
How to Prevent Anjan from Spoiling?
No matter which type of Anjan you make, here are some golden rules to keep it fresh for longer:
- Use clean and dry utensils: Moisture and dirt are the biggest enemies of homemade Anjan. Always use a clean container and keep the lid tightly closed.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight: Heat and light can degrade the quality of your Anjan, reducing its shelf life.
- Check regularly for spoilage: If you detect any change in smell, color, or texture, it’s best to discard it.
- Make small batches: If you’re unsure about long-term storage, make smaller batches so you can finish them before they go bad.
- Store separately for convenience: If you refrigerate your Anjan, keep a small portion at room temperature for daily use to avoid repeated temperature changes.
Can You Use Spoiled Anjan?
Absolutely not! Using spoiled Anjan can cause eye infections, irritation, and allergies. If you ever notice any signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the Anjan immediately and prepare a fresh batch.
Conclusion
Homemade Anjan is a wonderful natural alternative to commercial eye products, but proper storage is essential to maintaining its quality and effectiveness.
- Mustard oil-based Anjan lasts up to 6 months but needs extra care in humid climates.
- Ghee-based Anjan lasts for years and even improves over time.
- Always store Anjan in a clean, dry, airtight container to keep it free from dust, mold, and contamination.
- Check for any signs of spoilage before applying it to your eyes.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your homemade Anjan stays pure, fresh, and safe for a long time. Happy DIY skincare!
Do you have any personal experiences with making and storing Anjan? Let us know in the comments below!
Ritucharya 
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