Ayurveda For Hair: Home Remedies For Hair Growth

In the search of healthy hair, many of us turn to expensive products and chemical treatments, overlooking the power of natural home remedies deeply rooted in our tradition. From preventing hair fall to promoting faster growth, there are ample effective solutions waiting to be discovered right in our own homes. 

Understanding Hair Growth

Before we get into the remedies, it's important to understand the basics of hair growth. On average, hair grows about half an inch per month, but this rate can vary depending on factors like genetics, age, and overall health. Hair growth occurs in three stages: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). Promoting healthy hair growth involves nourishing the scalp, improving circulation, and providing essential nutrients to the hair follicles. 

Do you know there are different types of hair types, according to Ayurveda? Check out to know yours.

Types of hair, according to Ayurveda

Ayurveda categorizes hair types based on the predominance of doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and their influence on hair characteristics. Here are the hair types according to Ayurveda:

1. Vata Hair: Vata-dominant hair tends to be dry, thin, and prone to frizz and breakage. Individuals with Vata hair may experience issues like split ends and difficulty retaining moisture. Ayurvedic recommendations for Vata hair include gentle cleansing with moisturizing herbal shampoos and regular application of nourishing oils like sesame or almond to promote hydration and strengthen the hair shaft.

2. Pitta Hair: Pitta-dominant hair is typically fine, straight, and prone to premature graying or thinning. It may have a tendency towards excess oiliness, leading to conditions like dandruff or inflammation of the scalp. Ayurvedic remedies for Pitta hair focus on balancing Pitta dosha and cooling the scalp. This may involve using gentle, cooling hair care products infused with herbs like neem or aloe vera, as well as incorporating Pitta-pacifying dietary and lifestyle practices.

3. Kapha Hair: Kapha-dominant hair tends to be thick, oily, and prone to heaviness and sluggishness. It may appear shiny and lustrous but can be susceptible to issues like greasiness and scalp congestion. Ayurvedic strategies for Kapha hair aim to stimulate circulation and cleanse excess oil and buildup from the scalp. This may involve using clarifying herbal shampoos with ingredients like Triphala or fenugreek, as well as incorporating invigorating scalp massages and herbal rinses to balance Kapha dosha.

Understanding your hair type according to Ayurveda can help you customize your hair care routine to address specific concerns and maintain optimal hair health and vitality. Let's check some home remedies for hair growth.

Home Remedies for Hair Growth

Aromatherapy 

Aromatherapy can indeed be a beneficial home remedy for promoting hair growth. Essential oils extracted from plants and herbs contain compounds that can stimulate hair follicles, improve blood circulation to the scalp, and nourish the hair. Some essential oils commonly used in aromatherapy for hair growth include:

Rosemary Oil: Known for its stimulating properties, rosemary oil can help improve circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth.

Lavender Oil: Lavender oil has calming and balancing effects, which can help reduce stress and promote a healthy scalp environment for hair growth.

Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil has a cooling sensation and can help stimulate the scalp, improving circulation and promoting hair growth.

To use aromatherapy for hair growth, you can add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and massage it into the scalp. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing your hair as usual. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner for added benefits.

Scalp Massage with Essential Oils or Herbs

Stimulate hair follicles and improve blood circulation by gently massaging the scalp with essential oils like rosemary, lavender, or peppermint.

Mix a few drops of your chosen oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil, then massage into the scalp in circular motions. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes prior to washing off.

You can use Aloe vera for a dry, itchy scalp

You can utilize lemon and neem for an oily scalp

Rose and sandalwood merged in light clay is recommended for irritated scalp

Henna mixed with nutrient-rich oil is advised to cool the scalp

Apply amla and lemon juice

Amla is a good source of Vitamin C (it helps strengthen hair) and aids in getting rid of dandruff. Combine a few drops of lemon juice with one teaspoon of amla powder to create a thick paste. Apply the amla paste generously onto the hair, allowing it to sit for approximately 40 minutes. Rinse the hair with a gentle cleanser after the allotted time.

Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are rich in proteins and nicotinic acid, which strengthen the hair shaft and promote growth. After soaking fenugreek seeds overnight, grind them into a paste and massage it onto the scalp. Allow the paste to remain on the scalp for around 30 minutes before washing it off.

CONCLUSION

By including  these ancient remedies into our hair care routines, it helps in nurturing our  hair from within, without having to use expensive products or chemical treatments.