Hair loss is never an exciting chapter to arrive, no matter the age. Fortunately, Ayurveda offers us wisdom and treatment protocols for lessening and stopping hair loss.
Understanding Hair Loss in Ayurveda
The causes and severity of hair loss can be varied. Although hereditary factors often play a major role, Ayurveda identifies several major reasons for hair loss.
Doshic Imbalances
Doshic imbalances are a primary reason for how and why you might experience hair loss:
- Hair loss due to the Vata dosha may be the result of dry and dehydrated follicles, which will cause hair loss, often in patchy formations.
- Pitta hair loss will usually be due to an excess of heat from other organ systems. This heat inflames the follicles and causes them to lose strength, leading to hair loss in hereditary areas with premature greying.
- Hair loss from Kapha dominance will generally be due to an overproduction of sebum on the scalp. The clogged pores will cause a greasy scalp, and oily dandruff, and premature hair loss.
If your hair loss is due to a doshic imbalance, it’s important that you understand how to use diet and lifestyle to balance your doshas. Read our comprehensive guides to the Vata dosha, Pitta dosha, and Kapha dosha to learn about each dosha and how to maintain balance and achieve wellness.
Stress
Stress is a major factor when it comes to any and all diseases, and has been specifically shown to increase hair loss. In addition, the psychological disappointment of hair loss can be distressing. That’s why treatment for hair loss should always involve tips for mitigating stress. Doing pranayama exercises, practicing meditation, and developing a yoga practice that is calming and suitable for your dosha are vital in balancing your nervous system to reduce stress and subsequent hair loss.
Age
Age will also play a part. Generally, individuals over 60 years of age will endure the natural processes of aging. And this includes some hair loss.
Tips from Ayurveda for Hair Loss
Incorporating Ayurvedic herbs, tailams, and dietary changes will help you regrow your hair and reduce hair loss.
Herbs and Tonics for Healthier Hair
- Amla (or gooseberry) has been used for centuries in Ayurveda as an antioxidant, antiviral, and to help balance all the doshas. Taking amla daily will help the body’s cellular renewal processes, and will strengthen the immune system.
- Triphala includes potent ingredients like haritaki, bibhitaki, and amla! Triphala helps to regulate digestion, which helps with the absorption of nutrients. It is safe enough to take daily, and is great for all ages.
- Brahmi clears the mind and reduces stress. It works specifically on reducing cortisol (stress) levels as well as boosting memory and concentration. It can also be used topically – read more below!
- Chyawanprash is one of the most powerful herbal blends for overall health and wellness. Packed with over 30 potent and tridoshic herbs and superfoods, Chyawanprash helps to balance all 3 doshas, and provides the nutritional support needed for healthy tissues – including hair and scalp!
Dietary Support
Some helpful and nutritious additions you can add to your cuisine that help with hair loss includes:
- Pumpkin
- Mung beans
- Kale
- Spinach
- Fresh yogurt
- Coriander
Don’t hesitate to add some additional spices to your daily foods as well. These can include cumin, fennel, peppermint, rosemary, turmeric, and black pepper. All of these will aid in reducing hair loss by helping to increase circulation and reduce inflammation.
Tailams and Other Topical Treatments
Massaging the scalp with medicated oils is one of the best treatments for hair loss. It increases circulation to the follicles and helps the scalp absorb the nutritive herbs which strengthen the follicles. It is best to massage the scalp 2-3 times a week.
- Bhringraj oil successfully treats various scalp and skin conditions. It is best to warm the oil in the hands, massage vigorously into the scalp, and allow it to absorb for as long as possible, overnight is recommended.
- Dosha specific oils infused with essentials oils also help activate the hair follicles. You can specifically add the essential oils of rosemary, jasmine, lavender, or rose.
- Brahmi helps treat dry and damaged scalp conditions. It nourishes and balances the hair follicles, making it an ideal and powerful scalp massage treatment to prevent and reduce hair loss.
Book a Consultation
If you are hesitant or concerned about your hair loss, don’t hesitate to reach out to your qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or Ayurvedic physician to discuss more options for treatment.
Ceanna Saatsaz is a Licensed Master Esthetician, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, and Certified Professional Herbalist from Seattle, WA.
