Minoxidil – Can Ayurveda help with hair regrowth after stopping it?

Question

I have been using minoxidil for about a year to deal with hair thinning, and while I did see some improvement, I started experiencing a lot of side effects like dryness, itching, and even dizziness sometimes. Recently, I decided to stop minoxidil because I was worried about long-term dependence on it. But just a few weeks after stopping, my hair fall has become much worse than before. It’s falling out in clumps, and my scalp looks even more visible now.

I have read that stopping minoxidil suddenly can cause shedding, but I didn’t expect it to be this extreme. I feel like I’m losing all the progress I made. I am now considering Ayurvedic remedies to support hair regrowth naturally and prevent further hair loss.

Are there Ayurvedic oils or herbs that can help regrow hair after stopping minoxidil? Can Ayurveda help in balancing whatever internal imbalances might have caused my hair thinning in the first place? Also, is there anything I should avoid to stop excessive shedding?

Would appreciate any suggestions on how to transition from minoxidil to a more natural and sustainable solution for hair health.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Stopping minoxidil suddenly can cause severe shedding because the hair that was dependent on it enters a rapid fall-out phase. This indicates weakened hair follicles and poor scalp nourishment. Ayurveda sees hair fall as a result of excess Pitta and Vata imbalance, weak digestion, and nutritional deficiencies. Start Bhringraj oil scalp massage (warm before applying) 3–4 times a week to strengthen follicles and slow down shedding. Take Amla and Brahmi powder internally (1 tsp daily with warm water or honey) to cool Pitta and support natural regrowth.

To restore hair health from within, focus on gut health—poor digestion leads to weak hair. Avoid too much caffeine, fried food, and excessive spicy or sour foods, as they aggravate Pitta. Instead, eat cooked leafy greens, sesame seeds, soaked almonds, and ghee, which are deeply nourishing. Ayurvedic hair masks with Amla, Hibiscus, and Fenugreek (Methi) paste can improve scalp health and encourage regrowth. Drinking fresh aloe vera juice in the morning helps balance hormones and detoxify the system, preventing further loss.

To stabilize the transition from minoxidil, avoid harsh shampoos, heat styling, and excessive washing, which dry out the scalp. Use Ayurvedic hair cleansers like reetha (soapnut) and shikakai instead of chemical shampoos. Nasya therapy (applying 2 drops of Anu Taila in each nostril daily) helps strengthen hair from the root. If stress is contributing to hair fall, practice Shirodhara (Ayurvedic oil therapy for the scalp) or Brahmi-based herbal teas to calm the nervous system. Consistency in Ayurvedic remedies will help restore natural hair growth without side effects.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Stopping minoxidil can indeed lead to a shedding phase, but Ayurveda offers natural remedies to help manage hair loss and encourage regrowth. Herbs like Bhringraj, Amla, and Ashwagandha are known for their ability to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and restore hair growth. You can apply oils such as Bhringraj oil, Amla oil, or a combination of coconut oil with essential oils like rosemary or lavender, which stimulate circulation to the scalp and promote healthy hair. Internally, supporting your body with herbs like Brahmi and Shatavari can help balance any internal imbalances that may contribute to hair thinning, such as stress or hormonal issues. Additionally, ensure your diet includes nourishing foods like ghee, sesame seeds, and nuts to support hair health. Avoiding excessive heat styling, harsh chemicals, and too much stress can help reduce shedding. Transitioning to a holistic approach that nourishes both internally and externally can support sustained hair health.

Minoxidil – Can Ayurveda help with hair regrowth after stopping it? - #16565

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