Hair loss is a common issue, but you can use some remedies to minimize it. Here are some ayurvedic treatments for thinning hair

They were originally published in The Chalkboard Mag on May 2, 2018.

THERE’S NO SHAME in a bit of shedding, but if your scalp is looking sparse — and your drain is looking like it could use a blowout — it could be a sign that something is off internally, which means it’s time to take action. We love this natural and holistic approach from ayurvedic expert and author of Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda, Sahara Rose…

Thinning hair is the worst and something we’ve all dealt with at some point. I remember deep in my raw-vegan days when my Vata imbalance was spiraling out of control (though I didn’t know it yet). I’d see handfuls of hair coming out in the shower and be afraid of conditioning my hair because of the amount of hair loss that followed. Luckily, Ayurveda has many treatments for thinning hair to bring back our hair flow to look like lustrous goddesses.

10 Ayurvedic Treatments For Thinning Hair:

 

1. Eat warming and grounding foods:

Steer clear from excess cold, dry, and raw foods, which can cause a Vata imbalance. Vata is cold, dry energy, therefore we must counterbalance it with warm, moist foods. Cook your salad and have a soup on the side. Drink hot water with your green juice. Use room temperature instead of frozen fruits in your smoothie. Warm-up your body so your digestion can work more effectively, allowing you to absorb more nutrients.

 

2. Take amla (Indian gooseberry):

Amla is the most popular ayurvedic treatment for hair loss and is also commonly used as hair oil. Amla is filled with numerous minerals specific for hair growth. It is extremely rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Amla makes hair stronger, healthier, and prevents grays. You can find amla oil at many Indian supermarkets for a hair mask or take it in powder or supplement form from a reputable, organic source.

 

3. Massage with Brahmi:

Brahmi (centella asiatica) is an ayurvedic herb commonly used for intelligence and alertness. However, the oil also stimulates blood circulation in the head. Massage brahmi oil (also called Gotu kola) in your scalp and let sit overnight. Wash the next morning for lustrous hair.

 

4. Rinse with Neem:

Neem (margosa leaves) are commonly used in Ayurveda to promote hair growth, as well as silky, shiny hair. Combine several drops of neem oil in water and rinse it in your hair. Rinse out with water. Repeat weekly as a wonderful hair treatment.

 

5. Snack on Sesame Seeds and Tahini (Sesame seed paste)

Sesame seeds are a wonderful source of magnesium, calcium, and essential fatty acids for hair growth. I love putting tahini on my vegetables, salad, fruits, and everything in between. If you like nut butter, you’ll love tahini.

 

6. Avoid Caffeine:

Caffeine dehydrates the body, creating excess Vata, which can lead to hair loss. Instead, start your day with hot water, turmeric, and lemon.

 

7. Steer clear of Spicy, Fried, and Oily Foods:

These foods might imbalance your pitta (fire) dosha, causing hair loss.

 

8. Take sips of warm water throughout the day:

Instead of drinking a lot of water at once, sip gradually so you can absorb the H20 and rehydrate your colon.

 

9. Drink carrot juice and eat carrots:

These veggies are known to promote hair growth.

 

10. Don’t stress yourself out:

Stress is the number one cause of hair loss. Stay grounded and keep taking care of yourself. You shall overcome this, queen!

 

Do you know your dosha? Take this quiz to find out your ayurvedic mind-body type.