In Ayurveda, hair can be one of the indicators for how healthy we are on the inside. When we experience hair issues (like hair loss or dry scalp), we may be able to treat it with the correct diet, exercise, and lifestyle – but we can also supplement these efforts by incorporating Ayurvedic herbs for hair care in our daily routine. Here’s how.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Hair

If you’ve been taking good care of yourself and your hair is not up to par, there are certain effective Ayurvedic herbs that can help you achieve healthier hair and prevent ailments such as prematurely thinning hair.

Bhringraj Oil

Bhringraj tailam is an important herb in Ayurvedic hair care and is especially beneficial for those who are experiencing thinning or hair loss. A tridoshic herb, it has a more cooling yet stimulating effect, which makes it ideal for Pitta and Vata imbalances. However, it can be used on all three doshas during an imbalance. It’s particularly effective in calming the mind and helps to promote sleep.

The best way to utilize Bhringraj tailiam is to apply it to the whole scalp, massaging it in deeply and rigorously, from the follicles to the tips of the hair. Then, sleep with it wrapped in a scarf or towel 1-2 times a week.

Amla

Packed full of Vitamin C, amla is an Indian gooseberry. A lot of dis-ease in the body actually starts with the dysfunction of cells, and Vitamin C is essential in maintaining the health of the cellular metabolism and a well-functioning system. 

Amla powder can be purchased and mixed with coconut oil, to use as a scalp and hair mask. Its tridoshic quality makes it wonderful for all three doshas, but it’s specifically beneficial in increasing blood circulation and balancing the natural oil production of the scalp – which helps with premature thinning and dermatitis.

Brahmi

Brahmi, or bacopa, is a crucial tonifying herb that works on the mind, as well as the scalp and hair. It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to assist in cell advancement and helping the brain stay sharp. 

Externally, brahmi tailam is full of antioxidants, which help with ailments like premature thinning of the hair and dry scalp. It also supports follicle rejuvenation. Brahmi is said to be tridoshic, actually having cooling as well as heating properties and an effect overall on all doshas.

Chyawanprash

Chyawanprash is a tridoshic herbal formula that contains a variety of health-boosting herbs, including the daily recommended dose of amla and brahmi (bacopa). It nourishes and rejuvenates all seven of the body's dhatus (tissues) to promote internal and external health, resulting in healthier hair, skin, and nails.

Triphala

Also tridoshic, triphala is a rasayana that helps regulate digestion, elimination, skin health, adrenal health, and mood. It is a tridoshic blend, with amalaki (or amla, mentioned above), haritaki, and bibhitaki. 

Taking triphala (preferably at night before bed) helps assist in a healthy digestive fire (agni). Recharging the digestive tract will allow the body to absorb nutrients better, assisting in doshic balance and resulting in a healthier scalp and hair.

Another Way to Consume Ayurvedic Herbs for Healthier Hair

While you can enjoy these herbs on their own, combined with food, or topically (depending on the specific herb), there is another way to experience the benefits of these Ayurvedic herbs for hair. 

PIOR Living Hair is an herbal dietary supplement that contains a blend of 30 herbs and spices, including amla, brahmi, and bhringraj. When taken twice daily, this supplement helps support your hair’s growth and nourishment, leading to healthier, stronger, longer, and shinier hair.

Ceanna Saatsaz, LME, CAP, LPH