Causes And Treatments Of Premature Greying Of Hair According To Ayurveda

Healthy Hair has a vital role un enhancing the personality of human beings. It is the first noticeable part of beauty for both men and women.

Greying of Hair is considered as a condition of old age but in today’s world, it is dawning in the early 20s.

Problems such as premature greying of hair, hair fall etc. affect the self-esteem, self-confidence and personality of an individual. There are various factors such as: stress, living in polluted atmosphere, improper ahara (diet), nutritional deficiencies, not following the principles of Dinacharya (daily routine) etc. are the factors that contribute to the premature greying of hair.

What causes Premature Greying of Hair?

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Lack of nutrition
• Smoking
• Some medical conditions
• Poor hair hygiene
• Use of harsh chemicals for hair care

Concept of Premature Greying of Hair according to Ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, hair is considered as the Upadhatu (sub – tissue) of Asthi (bone tissue). There is a significant need of Prithvi (Earth Element) and Akash (Space Element) Mahabhoota.

In Ayurveda, the concept of hair is explained under the term ‘Keshya’. The word ‘Keshya’ is suggestive of ‘keshyam hitam yat tat.’ It means that which is good for hair. The goodness of hair can be understood by three perspectives. These are:

1. Kesh Sanjanana – that which helps in the origin of hair.
2. Kesh Vardhana – that which promotes the growth of hair.
3. Kesh Ranjana – that which gives dark black colour to the hair.

In Ayurveda, premature greying of hair is known as Akala Palitya which is caused due to the imbalance of Pitta dosha.

Ayurvedic system of medicine is more than a healing system. Ayurvedic hair care concepts cover all the aspects of hair health. For hair care, Ayurvedic classical literature emphasizes the use of herbs and herbal compounds.

Herbal Formulations offered by Yamuna Pharmacy for the treatment of Premature Greying of Hair are:

1. R Powder
2. Tressol Hair Oil
3. Tressol Capsule
4. Amla Capsule
5. R. Powder: K.R. Powder (Kesh Rakshak) Powder manufactured by Yamuna Pharmacy is a poly herbal hair protecting powder for local application. It contains herbs such as: Amla, Shikakai, Peet beeja, Arishtak, Sugandha kokila etc.

How to use K.R. Powder: Soak 3-6 teaspoons of K.R. Powder in a cupful of water for 6-8 hours and apply on scalp and hair roots for 45 minutes before taking bath and wash the hair by keeping the eyes closed. Towel dry the hair and scalp thoroughly and apply botanical hair oil (no mineral oil) of your choice.

For best results, apply K.R. Powder 3-4 times in a week.

2. Tressol Hair Oil: Tressol Hair Oil by Yamuna Pharmacy is an Ayurvedic preparation and it is the best remedy for stopping the premature greying of hair. In addition to prevent premature greying of hair, it helps in softening and strengthening the brittle hair and also provides nourishment to the hair roots. It can be used as a routine hair oil. It comprises the natural ingredients such as: Bhringraj, Rakta Chandan, Harad, Bahera, Amla, Lodhra, Neem, Brahmi, Shikakai, Mehandi patra and Chameli Patra processed in Til oil and liquid paraffin.

How to use: Take 2.5-5 ml Tressol hair oil and apply thoroughly on roots every day with gentle massage.

3. Tressol Capsule: Tressol Capsule by Yamuna Pharmacy is a wonderful blend of hair friendly herbs such as: Guduchi, Brahmi, Bhringraj Extract, Amla Extract and Calcium carbonate. Therefore, it is an Ayurvedic formulation that is highly recommended for hair problems such as premature greying of hair. These capsules help in improving blood circulation to the hair roots, provide nutrition to hair, provide lustrous shine to dry and damaged hair and delay premature greying of hair.

Dose: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day.

4. Amla Capsule: Amla Capsule by Yamuna Pharmacy is prepared by using the pure extract of Amla fruit (Emblica officinalis). Amla is the richest source of Vitamin C and Vitamin C increases the level of anti-oxidants in the body. Amla Capsule purifies the blood and enhances the natural hair colour by stopping the premature greying of hair. These capsules not only prevent premature greying of hair but also make them healthy and shining.

Dose: Take 1-2 capsules twice daily.

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Include seasonal fruits and vegetables in the diet.
• Daily water intake should be adequate.
• Meditation and Pranayam are recommended to reduce stress.
• Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and chemical based products for hair care.
• Avoid excessive intake of tea, coffee, alcohol and non-vegetarian food.
• Spicy food should not be taken.
• It is advised to do an Ayurvedic procedure known as Nasya, where 3-5 drops of oil are instilled into the nostrils.

Thus, herbal products offered by Yamuna Pharmacy along with the changes in diet and lifestyle can work effectively in dealing with premature greying of hair.

Causes and Treatments of Premature Greying of Hair According to Ayurveda

Premature greying of hair is a common issue that occurs when the hair loses its natural color before the age expected for grey hair. In Ayurveda, this condition is often seen as an imbalance in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), primarily caused by Pitta dosha imbalance, along with other factors like poor digestion (weak Agni), stress, poor nutrition, and genetic predisposition.

Ayurveda considers premature greying of hair not just a cosmetic issue but a reflection of internal imbalances in the body, particularly related to the health of the hair follicles and the quality of the body’s tissues (Dhatus).

Causes of Premature Greying of Hair According to Ayurveda

1. Pitta Dosha Imbalance:

   • Pitta dosha governs the metabolism, heat, and transformation in the body, including the color of the hair. When Pitta becomes aggravated, it leads to the early breakdown of the pigment-producing cells in the hair follicles, resulting in greying. It can also cause inflammation and dryness, both of which contribute to poor hair health.

2. Vata Dosha Imbalance:

   • Vata controls the nervous system and circulation. When Vata is imbalanced, it can cause dryness, brittleness, and thinning of hair, which, over time, may also lead to premature greying.

3. Nutritional Deficiency:

   • Deficiency of vital nutrients such as B vitamins (especially B12), iron, zinc, copper, and vitamin D can accelerate greying. Poor diet, including lack of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and unhealthy fats, can also contribute to premature greying.

4. Stress:

   • Chronic stress is a major contributor to premature greying. Stress leads to the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can disrupt the balance of Pitta in the body and lead to the depletion of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color.

5. Genetics:

   • Family history plays a significant role in premature greying. If your parents or grandparents experienced early greying, you might be genetically predisposed to the same.

6. Toxins and Poor Digestion (Ama):

   • Ama (toxins) caused by poor digestion (weak Agni) can accumulate in the body and affect the health of the hair follicles, leading to premature greying and other hair-related issues.

7. Age:

   • As a person ages, the melanin production naturally decreases, which leads to grey or white hair. However, when this happens at a young age, it is considered premature.

8. Hormonal Imbalances:

   • Thyroid imbalances and other hormonal fluctuations can also lead to premature greying of hair. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect hair pigmentation and cause it to lose its color prematurely.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Premature Greying of Hair

Ayurveda aims to balance the body’s doshas, enhance digestion (Agni), improve nutrient absorption, and nourish the hair follicles with herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. Below are some effective Ayurvedic treatments for premature greying of hair:

1. Herbs for Premature Greying of Hair

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry):

  • Benefits: Amla is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, which helps in boosting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. It also strengthens hair follicles and promotes healthy hair growth.

  • How to Use: Consume Amla juice or take Amla powder (1 teaspoon) with warm water daily. Amla oil can also be massaged into the scalp to nourish the hair roots.

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

  • Benefits: Brahmi is an excellent herb for the nervous system and helps reduce stress, which is one of the root causes of premature greying. It also promotes healthy hair growth and improves the quality of the hair.

  • How to Use: Take Brahmi powder (1/2 teaspoon) mixed with honey or warm water. It can also be used in Brahmi oil for a scalp massage.

• Hibiscus:

  • Benefits: Hibiscus flowers and leaves are traditionally used to darken hair naturally. They help in restoring the natural color of the hair and prevent further greying.

  • How to Use: Prepare a paste of hibiscus petals with coconut oil and apply it to the scalp. You can also drink hibiscus tea for internal nourishment.

• Henna (Lawsonia inermis):

  • Benefits: Henna has natural coloring properties that can be used to dye the hair. It also nourishes the hair follicles and improves hair texture.

  • How to Use: Make a paste of henna powder and apply it to the hair. Leave it on for a few hours, then rinse with water. It provides a reddish-brown color to the hair.

• Black Sesame Seeds (Til):

  • Benefits: Black sesame seeds are known to reverse premature greying. They help in nourishing the Vata and Pitta doshas, thereby restoring the natural color of the hair.

  • How to Use: Soak 1-2 teaspoons of black sesame seeds overnight in water and consume it the next morning. Alternatively, you can apply black sesame oil to the scalp.

• Bringraj (Eclipta alba):

  • Benefits: Bringraj is highly revered for its rejuvenating properties. It helps stimulate hair growth, improves circulation to the scalp, and prevents premature greying.

  • How to Use: Apply Bringraj oil to the scalp regularly for improved hair color and strength.

2. Ayurvedic Oils for Hair Health

• Amla Oil:

  • Benefits: Amla oil is a great rejuvenator for hair. It strengthens the hair roots, improves pigmentation, and nourishes the scalp, preventing premature greying.

  • How to Use: Massage Amla oil into the scalp before bedtime and leave it overnight. Wash off the next morning with a mild herbal shampoo.

• Bhringraj Oil:

  • Benefits: Bhringraj oil promotes hair pigmentation and growth. It helps balance Pitta and Vata, which are the primary doshas responsible for hair health and color.

  • How to Use: Massage Bhringraj oil into the scalp and leave it for a few hours before washing it off.

• Coconut Oil with Curry Leaves:

  • Benefits: Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, which help slow down the greying process. Coconut oil helps to lock in moisture and promotes healthy hair growth.

  • How to Use: Boil curry leaves in coconut oil, strain it, and massage the oil into the scalp.

3. Dietary Recommendations

• Increase Vitamin C: Foods rich in Vitamin C like Amla, oranges, guavas, and lemons help in melanin production and support the health of hair.

• Include B Vitamins: Incorporate B12 and B7 (biotin) rich foods such as eggs, nuts, seeds, legumes, and green leafy vegetables.

• Antioxidants: Foods like blueberries, spinach, and carrots are rich in antioxidants, which protect hair follicles from free radical damage and prevent premature aging of the hair.

• Protein-Rich Foods: Include lentils, tofu, quinoa, chickpeas, and beans to strengthen hair and prevent greying.

• Healthy Fats: Include flaxseeds, chia seeds, avocados, and olive oil to nourish the scalp and hair follicles.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

• Stress Management:

  • Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and pranayama to keep stress levels in check. Chronic stress contributes to Pitta imbalance, which accelerates greying.

• Adequate Sleep:

  • Ensure you are getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow the body to rejuvenate and maintain the health of the hair follicles.

• Regular Exercise:

  • Engage in regular physical activity to improve blood circulation, nourish hair follicles, and reduce stress, which is linked to premature greying.

Conclusion

Premature greying of hair can be managed and potentially reversed with Ayurvedic treatments by addressing the root causes of the issue—Pitta imbalance, poor digestion, and stress. By incorporating Ayurvedic herbs, dietary changes, oils, and lifestyle modifications, you can restore the natural color of your hair and maintain overall hair health. However, if the problem persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment.