Herbal Remedies for Hair Loss

Hair Loss is the thinning of hair on the scalp. The medical term for hair loss is alopecia. Alopecia can be temporary or permanent. The most common form of hair loss occurs gradually and is referred to as “Androgenetic Alopecia,” which is a combination of hormones (androgens which are male hormones) and heredity (genetical), needed to develop the condition.

Some other types of hair loss also include such as

• Alopecia Areata (patches of baldness)
• Telogen Effluvium (rapid shedding after childbirth, fever, or sudden weight loss)
• Traction Alopecia (thinning from tight braids or ponytails).

Ayurvedic Concept of Hair Loss

According to Ayurveda, hair type is directly related to body type and is systematically classified into three categories; Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each hair type has distinct features, and hence there are multiple reasons for hair loss which vary from person to person.

Hair loss is caused due to Pitta Dosha. Pitta Dosha governs our metabolism and digestion. A balanced Pitta leads to a healthy body and mind. Once you identify the reasons of Pitta Dosha, it becomes easier to correct it.

Some Factors are responsible for Hair Loss

• Hair medical conditions like alopecia areata, ringworm, and hair-pulling disorder.
• The family history of hair loss that is commonly referred to as male-pattern or female-pattern baldness.
• Medications used to treat cancer, arthritis, heart problems, high blood pressure, and gout.
• Hormonal changes due to childbirth, pregnancy, PCOS, thyroid problems, and menopause.
• Extreme stress can also cause sudden hair loss.
• Radiation therapy.
• Certain hairstyles that include tying your hair too tight.
• Heat styling that includes permanent straightening, blow-drying and curling.
• It could be possible that essential nutrients may be missing from your diets such as iron, copper, zinc, and proteins. The deficiency of vitamin D is another cause of hair loss.

Symptoms of Hair Loss include

• Gradual thinning of hair on top of the head or crown area
• Loosening of hair
• Circular or patchy bald spots
• Scaly patches on the scalp

Miracle Herbal Remedies that prevent Hair Loss

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera restores scalp health by conditioning it while balancing sebum production and pH levels. This, not only curbs hair loss, but it also promotes hair re-growth.

Process:

• Slice the Aloe Vera stem and scoop out 2 tablespoons of gel.
• Apply the extracted gel to your scalp and gently massage it for a couple of minutes.
• Leave the gel in your hair for 2 hours and then wash it off.

How Often?

Repeat this twice or thrice a week

2. Amla (Indian gooseberry)

Amla is rich in Vitamin C and other minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, iron and Vitamin B complex. It has a strong antioxidant property and amla has been used since ancient times as a natural ingredient to enhance the strength and sheen of hair. Regular use of amla nourishes hair, stimulates growth and strengthens hair follicles. Furthermore, it is also helpful in preventing hair loss. Amla juice, when mixed with water; helps to restore the vitality of hair, while offering strength and shine.

Process:

• In a bowl, add 4 tablespoons of Indian Gooseberry powder with water and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice until you get a smooth, consistent paste.
• Massage this into your scalp and apply it to the whole length of your hair as well.
• Let it sit for 15 minutes and rinse it out.

How Often?

Repeat this twice or thrice a week.

3. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Seeds)

Fenugreek seeds not only kill the bacteria and fungi present on the scalp but strengthen the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Process:

• Add 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seed powder with 5 to 6 tbsp of yogurt and 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil. Mix all the three ingredients in a bowl, cover with a lid and set aside for 2 to 3 hours. During this time fenugreek seed powder will swell and the entire mixture will thicken up. You can also add a few drops of water if you find it too thick to apply on.
• Apply this mask to your scalp and hair. Put on your shower cap.
• Leave this on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse off thoroughly. Wash with a natural shampoo and let your hair dry naturally.

How Often?

Repeat this once a week.

4. Sage

Sage is also said to be highly beneficial in alopecia and thinning hair conditions. The natural oils in sage strengthen the roots and stimulate healthy hair growth. Sage has antiseptic and astringent benefits for the hair. Regular use of the herb results in thicker and stronger hair.

Process:

• Boil 2 tablespoons of dried sage leave in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Set this aside to cool.
• Once the solution has cooled down, strain the liquid into a container or bowl.
• After shampooing pour the sage-infused water through it as a final rinse.
• Do not rinse your hair further.

How Often?

Do this after every wash.

5. Bhringraj

Bhringraj is one of the most powerful herbs used in remedy for curbing hair loss and premature graying. Herbal formulation is safe and effective for all hair types. Bhringraj oil helps foster hair follicles and it results in healthy hair, a healthy scalp and promotes hair re-growth very fast.

Process:

• Finely chop a bunch of bhringraj leaves and heat them in a saucepan with 1 cup of oil (Coconut Oil or Sesame Oil).
• Keep the oil on simmer heat for 10 minutes and then set it aside to cool.
• Once the oil is cool, section your hair and start massaging the oil into your scalp as well as the whole length of your hair.
• Wait for 30 minutes and then rinse the oil out with shampoo.

How Often?

Repeat this twice or thrice a week.

6. Jatamansi

Jatamansi infused with oil is very helpful when it comes to preventing hair loss because of its blood purifying properties.

Process:

• Combine about 5 drops of Jatamansi Essential oil with 2 tablespoons Carrier oil (Coconut Oil or Seasame Oil) in a bowl to create a Jatamansi oil blend.
• Start massaging this oil into your scalp and length of your hair.
• Massage your scalp for an additional 10 minutes.
• Wait, with the oil in your hair, for at least half an hour and then rinse it out with shampoo.

How Often?

Repeat this twice or thrice a week.

7. Reetha (Soapnuts)

Soap nuts or Reetha is said to contain Saponin, a natural cleanser that improves scalp health and restores pH levels. This remedy helps to keep your scalp clean and healthy without using harsh, damage-causing chemicals which will further help in reducing hair loss.

Process:

• Soak the Reetha (soapnuts) and Amla in 2 cups of water and leave it overnight.
• In the morning, heat the water with the soapnuts and gooseberries still in it until it starts to boil.
• Let the water cool and then mash the soapnuts and gooseberries.
• Strain the liquid and use it to wash your hair instead of using shampoo.
• This mixture does not lather as well as shampoo, so instead of massaging your scalp and hair, pour the Reetha water through your hair and wait for 5-10 minutes then proceed to rinse it out with water.

How Often?

Replace the shampoo in two of your weekly washes with this natural cleanser.

Indications:

• The results vary from person to person depending on the reason for hair loss.
• These natural herbal remedies can show tremendous results when used regularly.