Hair loss is a prevalent concern in today's generation, often attributed to various factors like environmental pollutants and excessive sun exposure. The cumulative effects of vigorous shampooing, frequent use of hair dryers, and prolonged sun exposure can significantly damage our hair, leaving it prone to breakage and thinning.
Additionally, factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, poor dietary habits, and hormonal imbalances can exacerbate the problem, leading to increased hair fall and lackluster locks. It's become increasingly clear that our hair requires as much care and attention as our skin to maintain its health and vitality.
Fortunately, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to hair care, providing natural remedies to address hair damage and promote hair growth. Ayurvedic principles emphasize the importance of balancing the body's doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) to achieve optimal health, including healthy hair.
Here are a few Ayurvedic remedies that can help rectify years of hair damage and neglect:
# Oil MassageAn oil massage is one of the best treatments for your hair and scalp. It conditions the scalp, increases blood circulation, and strengthens the roots. Hair follicles receive more nutrients through scalp stimulation. And the best part– it’s one of the most comforting feelings in the world.
There is a wide variety of oils to choose from:
Neelibhringadi, Kunthala Kanthi And Kanjunnyadi Oils
Medicated oils such as these are useful in preventing hair loss and strengthening the hair. These oils are a mixture of Ayurvedic ingredients like amalaki, neeli, hibiscus, and bhringraj.
* Nut-Based OilsRich in vitamin A and E, these oils are used to promote hair growth and repair damage. Popular examples are almond oil and macadamia nut oil.
* Coconut OilThis penetrates easily into the hair shaft because of its low molecular weight. This reduces dandruff, cleans the scalp, and rejuvenates the hair. It’s great for dry hair.
*Olive OilMost hair issues like split ends and dry strands are a result of lack of moisture. This oil helps to reduce the loss of moisture in the hair thanks to the high vitamin E content. Other benefits include preventing hair loss, eliminating dandruff, and repairing split ends.
Olive oil infused with rosemary is also beneficial in treating hair loss.
Directions Of Use
- Heat oil in a bowl.
- Apply it slowly on to the scalp, massaging it gently for at least 10 minutes.
- Work from the roots to the ends of the hair.
- Do not rub the hair between your palms.
- Keep it for 1–2 hours.
- Rinse it off with shampoo and conditioner.
Do this once a week.
# Bhringraj
Bhringraj hair oil is amazing for hair treatment. Used for centuries in Ayurvedic practices, it strengthens the root, prevents split ends, and prevents baldness.
It doesn’t stop there! Bhringraj is used to treat alopecia a serious hair-loss condition. Bhringraj leaves also help to reduce premature graying of hair.
Directions Of Use- Make a paste out of bhringraj leaves.
- Apply it gently onto the scalp and let it rest for a while.
- Rinse it off with water.
If you can’t get access to bhringraj leaves, get the dried powder.
- Add a few tablespoons of warm water to it.
- Apply it on the scalp and leave it for 15 minutes.
- Rinse it off with water.
# Henna
Give yourself a natural dye! Henna helps to give your strands of gray hair a natural and healthier conceal. Unlike other dyes, henna has no chemicals, ammonia, or toxins.
But it’s most popular trait is that it conditions the hair. Regular use of henna encourages thicker and lustrous hair. It also helps reduce hair fall and fix hair damage.
Applying henna twice a month will boost the your hair quality.
Directions Of Use- For dry hair, mix henna with yogurt and a tablespoon of coconut oil.
- To focus on hair growth, mix 5 cups of henna with gingli oil.
Avoid henna if you have a very sensitive scalp.
# FenugreekA study conducted by the University of Indonesia proved that fenugreek helps to promote hair growth. Fenugreek aka methi is useful to strengthen the roots. This prevents hair fall, reduces dandruff, and adds shine to your hair.
Washing your hair with fenugreek and cooked green gram helps to increase blood circulation around your hair follicles
# Shikakai Shikakai is one of Ayurveda’s favorite hair treatments. It’s been used as a hair cleanser for hundreds of years because of its anti-fungal properties. It helps to treat dandruff and reduces hair fall.
Directions Of Use- Mix one tablespoon of shikakai with half a cup of coconut oil or avocado oil.
- Alternatively, mix shikakai with yogurt and let it rest on your scalp for 15 minutes.
- Rinse it off with water and say hello to shiny hair.
# Aloe VeraThe uses of aloe vera are abundant. From keeping your skin moisturized to treating burns and keeping your general health in check (thank you, antioxidants), aloe vera is in the top ranks of healing plants.
It has been used around the world to deal with hair loss. The enzymes in aloe vera help to repair dead cells on the scalp. It reduces itching and acts as a great conditioner.
Hair is made up of a protein known as keratin. This has a similar chemical makeup as that of aloe vera. Hence, aloe vera stimulates the hair for repair and growth.
Directions Of Use- Mix aloe vera gel with a few drops of lemon juice to repair your hair.
- Or mix aloe vera gel with coconut oil to kick-start hair growth.