Ayurveda describes hair health as deeply connected to our overall balance, or ‘doshas’ - particularly with Pitta and Vata. Your symptoms, like hair fall and brittleness, might indicate an imbalance in these doshas, maybe exacerbated by stress and lifestyle factors. Here are a few steps rooted in Ayurvedic philosophy to help you regain strong hair:
1. Amla and Aloe Vera: Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is nourishing and rejuvenating. You can use it in powdered form to make a hair mask. Mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder with some warm water to make a paste, and apply it to your scalp, leaving it for about 20 minutes before washing it off. Aloe vera can indeed be applied directly to your scalp; it helps soothe and hydrate, which might support hair strength. Use fresh aloe vera gel, massaging it into the scalp, and rinsing off after 30 minutes.
2. Diet and Stress Management: Stick to a warm, nourishing diet. Include healthy fats like ghee or sesame oil. They can support Vata, which in excess, could contribute to hair brittleness. Stress is a significant Pitta aggravator, so incorporating meditation or yoga might really help balance you out.
3. Oil Massage: Regularly massaging your scalp with warm sesame or coconut oil can strengthen roots and increase circulation. This practice, known as ‘abhyanga’, can be done once or twice weekly. Warm the oil gently and massage slowly in circular motions to penetrate the scalp.
4. Herbal Supplements and Teas: Consider introducing herbs like Brahmi and Ashwagandha, which support stress management and have rejuvenating properties. Brahmi powder can be mixed with water as a paste for the scalp or taken as a supplement; similarly, ashwagandha can be taken in capsule form or a tea.
If home remedies do not lead to improvement, it might be worth consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner to ascertain more specifics regarding your ‘prakriti’, particularly if there’s an underlying imbalance contributing to hair health. Working holistically will often yield more enduring results and hair vitality. Additionally, keep an eye on your stress, as mental state and physical health are deeply interlinked in Ayurveda, along with consulting a doctor if hair loss remains severe.
