Today's blog from Vedicmed will tell you about the Ayurvedic solutions for the problem of ‘early greying of hair'. As the name suggests, early greying of hair is a problem that can affect anyone, regardless of gender (i.e., premature greying of hair). Scientifically, its definition is as follows:

Early greying of hair, also known as premature greying, refers to the condition where a person starts to develop grey or white hair before the age when it is considered normal (usually in the mid-30s or later). This can be a distressing condition for some individuals, as it may affect their appearance and self-esteem.

There are 2 types of greying hair:

  1. Premature Canities: This is the medical term for premature greying of hair, which can occur in both men and women.
  2. Segmental Premature Greying: In some cases, premature greying may affect only specific segments or patches of hair, rather than the entire head.

Symptoms of Hair:

Although premature greying of hair is the primary symptom, there are many other symptoms that accompany it. Let's know them.

  1. The primary symptom of early greying of hair is the appearance of grey or white hair.
  2. It occurs before the expected age of greying.
  3. The age at which hair greys varies among individuals.
  4. Genetic factors can influence the onset of greying.

Causes of Hair:

The exact reason for premature greying is not fully known, but it usually happens due to a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here are some common causes and risk factors:

  1. Genetics: If your parents or close family members had early grey hair, you're more likely to have it too.
  2. Age: As we get older, the body produces less melanin (the pigment that gives hair its color), which causes hair to turn grey.
  3. Stress: Long-term stress can lead to early greying, though the exact reason isn't completely clear.
  4. Medical Conditions: Health issues like thyroid problems, vitiligo, and anemia can be linked to premature greying.
  5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, vitamin D, and copper may cause hair to grey early.
  6. Smoking: Some studies show that people who smoke are more likely to have grey hair early, but more research is needed to confirm this.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Early Greying of Hair:

Before resorting to hair dye when early grey hair appears, many try home remedies. According to Ayurveda, it is true that some herbal ingredients can turn your hair black from the roots. However, only following the right process, with the correct quantity and sequence, can yield good results. Keeping this in mind, Vedicmed has been providing proper and systematic Ayurvedic treatments. Let's see one by one what Ayurvedic treatments are available at Vedicmed, including Ayurvedic Treatment for Early Greying of Hair.

  1. Oral Medication: Our Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend natural formulations and dietary supplements to promote hair health, strengthen hair follicles, and maintain the balance of doshas (energetic forces) that could be causing premature greying.
  2. Pizhichil: Pizhichil is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that involves the gentle pouring of warm, medicated oil over the body with a soothing massage. Known for its rejuvenating and detoxifying effects, it can indirectly help manage early greying of hair by balancing Pitta dosha, improving blood circulation to nourish hair follicles, eliminating toxins, reducing stress, and strengthening hair roots. While not a direct cure, Pizhichil supports overall hair health and is most effective when combined with dietary changes, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications under Ayurvedic guidance.
  3. Snehana (Oil Massage): Snehana is a key Ayurvedic therapy that involves applying warm, medicated oils to the body and scalp. It helps manage early greying of hair by balancing Pitta and Vata doshas, nourishing hair follicles, improving blood circulation, reducing stress, detoxifying the body, and promoting scalp health. While not a direct cure, Snehana supports overall hair health by addressing underlying imbalances. For best results, it is combined with a proper diet, lifestyle changes, and Ayurvedic treatments under expert guidance.
  4. Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Swedana is an Ayurvedic treatment that induces sweat using herbal steam to detoxify and relax the body. It helps manage early greying of hair by balancing Pitta and Vata doshas, improving blood circulation to nourish hair follicles, and promoting detoxification to remove impurities that affect hair health. The therapy also reduces stress, opens scalp pores for better absorption of oils, and promotes overall scalp health by preventing dryness and improving moisture retention. While not a direct cure, Swedana supports hair health and is most effective when combined with Ayurvedic oils, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.
  5. Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Virechana is an Ayurvedic detox treatment that uses natural laxatives to cleanse the body of toxins, which can contribute to early greying. It balances Pitta dosha, detoxifies the body, improves digestion for better nutrient absorption, and reduces stress—helping create a healthy environment for hair growth. While not a direct cure for greying, Virechana supports overall health and is often combined with other Ayurvedic treatments, diet, and lifestyle changes for optimal results.
  6. Shirodhara: Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy where warm, medicated oil is poured over the forehead, helping manage early greying by reducing stress, balancing Vata and Pitta doshas, and improving blood circulation to the scalp. It nourishes the scalp, promotes relaxation, and enhances sleep quality, supporting overall hair health. While not a direct cure for greying, Shirodhara works holistically to improve hair health and manage early greying when combined with other Ayurvedic treatments, a balanced diet, and lifestyle changes.
  7. Nasya (Nasal Administration): Nasya involves the administration of medicated oils or herbal preparations through the nostrils. While it is not directly used for premature greying, Nasya may have some benefits for overall respiratory health and supporting the immune system.
  8. Derma (Local Applications): Ayurvedic topical treatments, such as herbal pastes or oils, may be applied to the scalp to nourish the hair and improve scalp health.
  9. Shiro Lepa (Head Pack): Shiro Lepa involves the application of medicated herbal pastes to the scalp. It can help soothe the scalp and improve hair health.
  10. Pracchhana (Scarification): Pracchhana involves gentle scarification or rubbing of the scalp with specific instruments or herbs. It can help improve blood circulation and promote a healthy scalp.
  11. Leech Therapy: Leech therapy, known as Jalauka Avacharana, involves the application of medicinal leeches to the scalp. It may be used in specific cases to promote blood circulation and improve hair health.
  12. Basti (Enema Therapy): Basti involves the administration of medicated enemas, which can help balance doshas and support overall well-being. In some cases, it may be used as part of an integrated treatment plan for hair health.