How to prevent premature greying of hair, the Ayurveda way
Premature greying of hair
, known in
Ayurveda
as Palitya, is considered a condition arising from imbalances in the
Pitta dosha
. Unlike conventional treatments that often mask the greying with chemical dyes and colour, Ayurveda targets the root and the root causes of premature greying, and this is done by balancing the doshas and certain herbal remedies.
The cause of premature greying
According to Ayurveda, the primary reason behind premature greying of hair is the aggravation of the Pitta dosha. Factors like excessive anger, stress, anxiety, overthinking, and physical exertion heat up the body internally, and this heat, when it rises to the scalp, weakens the hair roots and leads to early loss of pigmentation.
The Ayurvedic treatments
There are 'n' number of treatments available for blackening and dyeing the hair, which helps make them look black and shiny again.
But there are no major treatments that will help turn the hair black from root again.
And this is where Ayurveda steps in.
In the book 'Holistic Health: Law and Facts' by Swami Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, the duo mention natural ways to prevent premature greying as mentioned in ancient texts like 'Charak Chikitsa' and 'Bhavprakash Chikitsa'.
Some of those treatments are -
Nasya therapy
In this, it is recommended to regularly administer nasal drops using Anu Taila (a medicated oil) which helps nourish the brain and strengthen the nervous system, which in turn prevents hair from losing its pigment early.
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Experience three trade fairs with just one ticket
Undo
automatica 2025
Undo
Laser World of Photonics
Undo
World of Quantum
Undo
Visit automatica: June 24-27, Munich
Undo
The book also mentions preparing a Sahacaradi oil, which is made by boiling cow's milk, Sahacara juice, Bhringraj juice, Tulsi juice, Sesame oil, and Licorice paste.
The ingredients are cooked thoroughly, strained, and stored in a stone vessel. This oil, when used for regular nasal and head massages, helps reduce premature greying.
Another treatment mentioned in the book is a herbal decoction made with Triphala and Bhasma.
The book mentions that the paste is made using Lauha Bhasma, mango seed kernel, Amla, Haritaki, Vibhitaki, and then this should be cooked in sesame oil.
When applied to the scalp, this is believed to help in restoring black hair.
Another easy treatment for reversing grey hair is to prepare a mixture of Triphala powder, Lauha Bhasma, and Bhringraj juice.
According to the text, when this mixture is poured into a hole in a coconut, sealed, and then let sit for a month, it converts into a paste.
The paste is then applied to the scalp, and banana leaves are wrapped over it. This process nourishes the roots and can significantly darken greying strands.
The patience you need
While Ayurveda has tons of ways and remedies through which people can benefit and get rid of ailments, one needs to have patience when healing the natural way. These treatments not only address the external symptoms but also purify and balance internal systems, which although takes time but also gives the best results.
And make sure to pair these treatments with lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, eating a Pitta-pacifying diet, and maintaining a regular routine to get long-term benefits.
Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with
Mother's Day wishes
,
messages
, and
quotes
!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Still using refined oil? Try these 5 healthier alternatives doctors recommend
When it comes to Indian cooking, oil is an indispensable ingredient. However, choosing the right oil is crucial especially for heart health. According to renowned cardiologist and functional medicine expert Dr. Alok Chopra, not all oils are created equal, and blindly following global cooking oil trends may not be the best choice for Indian kitchens. In an Instagram video posted on June 15, Dr. Chopra named five science-supported oils that are the most appropriate for Indian cooking. These oils are not fad-based but based on their nutritional value and compatibility with traditional Indian cuisine. Why is choosing the right cooking oil important Using the right cooking oil goes beyond just taste; it's a vital step toward better heart health. Oils rich in unsaturated fats can support cardiovascular wellness, but cutting out all fats isn't realistic. The key lies in selecting oils that both suit the nutritional needs of your body and enhance the unique flavors of Indian cuisine. Many common Western oils aren't ideal for Indian cooking methods, which often involve high-heat searing and complex spice blends. That's why choosing oils that can handle the heat—while also offering health benefits—is essential for both flavor and long-term wellness. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Source: Instagram 5 healthiest oils for Indian cooking besides refined oil The use of the appropriate oil is a matter of balance, tradition, and science. Dr. Alok Chopra's top picks include: Ghee Coconut oil Mustard oil Sesame oil Groundnut oil Each of these oils is unique in its health benefit and also complements the richness and diversity of Indian food. If you're regularly cooking Indian food, these five oils are good to have in your pantry—not for flavor alone, but for long-term health. Know more these cooking oil: India's healthiest cooking oils recommended Ghee Dr. Chopra is a big supporter of ghee, highlighting its immune-stimulating and digestive capabilities. Packed with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, ghee promotes enhanced gut health and nutrient uptake. "Ghee is not merely a fat used for cooking—it's an Indian traditional medicinal superfood," maintains Dr. Chopra. In spite of its relatively high saturated fat status, ghee has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is one of the healthiest fats to use in moderation. Coconut Oil Coconut oil, which Dr. Chopra also loves, is chock-full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These molecules of fat are quickly absorbed and turned into energy, so coconut oil is a great choice for brain and gut support. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), MCTs not only provide instant energy but also help regulate several metabolic and neurological diseases. Mustard Oil Mustard oil is popular in Indian homes and gets a nod from Dr. Chopra due to its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects. It has omega-5 fatty acids, which help improve circulation and bring down inflammation. "Mustard oil is one of the few oils that is great with Indian spices and yet is supportive of heart health," says Dr. Chopra. Sesame Oil With its high content of antioxidants and healthy fats, sesame oil is a good backup choice. Dr. Chopra points out its advantages for joint mobility and skin health, and it makes a valuable all-around option that feeds the body internally. Sesame oil is commonly employed in South Indian and Ayurvedic cuisine and also contains natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Groundnut Oil Last but not least, groundnut oil (peanut oil) finds a place on Dr. Chopra's list due to its good fat profile and plant sterol, which reduce cholesterol levels. Moderation is, however, the word. "Groundnut oil is good for the heart, but as with all oils, it must be consumed wisely," warns Dr. Chopra. Its lack of flavour and high smoke point make it perfect for deep frying and day-to-day Indian cuisine. A word of caution on cooking oils! In an earlier report, Dr. Chopra cautioned that the ingestion of the inappropriate type of cooking oil, particularly refined oils containing high levels of trans fats, will enhance the risk of heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Selecting oils by trends without regard for their compatibility with Indian cooking practices can be more harmful than beneficial. Also Read | Sea salt, pink salt, Celtic salt: Experts say these 'fancy' salts may secretly harm your heart health One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Indian Express
3 hours ago
- Indian Express
Is this morning gut health test really effective? Let's find out if you pass it
While doomscrolling online, we came across digital creator Akanksha Pandey's morning gut health test. In it, she elaborated on four test case scenarios and suggested solutions to potential problems. Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at The Cleft & Craniofacial Centre, Sree Balaji Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, helped us break down the test and learn more about its effectiveness. Pandey suggested that a white coating on the tongue signals 'toxin overload,' rooted in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, where such symptoms are associated with accumulating ama or undigested residue. From a clinical perspective, however, Deepalakshmi explained that a coated tongue is more often linked to poor oral hygiene, dehydration, or fungal overgrowth (such as oral thrush). 'While it may indicate microbial imbalance or dietary issues, calling it 'toxin overload' lacks medical specificity,' she said. Ensuring adequate hydration, tongue cleaning, and balanced nutrition typically helps address this issue. Pandey's solutions to the problem was three-fold: Oil pulling, light dinners, and a gut cleanse. Oil pulling is often recommended for oral health, and some traditional practices suggest it can support digestion. 'While oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil may reduce oral bacterial load and improve gum health, there is limited scientific evidence connecting it directly with improved digestion,' said Deepalakshmi, adding that it may serve as a supportive self-care habit, but underlying digestive discomfort is more effectively addressed through dietary and lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake, managing stress, and avoiding late-night heavy meals. 'Advising a light dinner for better gut health is evidence-informed and aligns with traditional and modern nutritional advice. Late-night heavy meals can interfere with digestion and sleep, while early, lighter dinners may improve gastric emptying and reduce bloating,' said the dietitian. However, she believes Pandey's recommendation to get a gut cleanse done is vague. 'Medically, the gut does not need cleansing unless advised for specific conditions or procedures. A healthy gut is maintained through hydration, fibre-rich foods, prebiotics, and regular physical activity—not extreme cleanses,' she explained. According to Deepalakshmi, the claim that not having the urge to poop in the morning indicates a 'dry gut' is an oversimplification. 'While constipation can be a sign of poor hydration or inadequate fat and fibre intake, the term 'dry gut' is not used in medical literature,' she said. That said, healthy fats like ghee, water-rich vegetables such as gourds, and good fluid intake can support regular bowel movements and improve stool consistency. These practices are generally safe and may help manage mild constipation. Deepalakshmi said that a 'gut reset' is not a clinically defined intervention, but improvements in gut health can be achieved through a balanced diet, probiotics, and reducing processed foods. 'The assertion that one should never have bad breath in the morning is misleading. Mild halitosis upon waking is common due to decreased saliva production overnight, which allows bacteria to accumulate,' she said, adding that persistent or very foul-smelling breath may reflect poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or in some cases, gut-related issues such as reflux or constipation. Finally, for those experiencing morning acidity or gas, Pandey said that ingredients like licorice (mulethi), amla, and gulkand are traditional remedies that may offer relief. 'Licorice has demulcent properties and may help soothe an irritated gut lining. Amla is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting digestion and gastric health. Gulkand, made from rose petals, is used in Ayurveda for its cooling and mild laxative properties,' explained the dietitian, stating that while these can be helpful as part of a broader dietary approach, persistent symptoms should always be medically evaluated.
Hans India
3 hours ago
- Hans India
Yoga Day aims for healthier planet: Om Birla leads celebrations at Parliament
New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday led the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at the Parliament premises, where Members of Parliament from both Houses gathered to mark the occasion with a unified call for incorporating yoga into daily life. Observed globally every year on June 21, the International Day of Yoga was first proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and swiftly adopted by the United Nations, garnering support from 177 countries. Since then, the day has become a global celebration of India's ancient wellness tradition. At the yoga event held within the Parliament complex, leaders from across party lines came together to perform 'asanas' and breathing exercises, symbolising unity, wellness, and India's soft power on the global stage. Speaking to reporters after the session, Om Birla extended his greetings on the occasion and underlined the growing global and domestic significance of yoga. "Yoga has become an integral part of the daily routine for people across society. The International Day of Yoga, rooted in India's ancient natural practices, aims for a healthier planet. Even in the modern scientific world, the importance of yoga has been widely acknowledged," he said. "Yoga balances the body and mental well-being by eradicating stress and tension from our lives. It also gives us the energy to face life's challenges. Yoga and Ayurveda are ancient practices of India. Several researchers have also found that yoga is a means for the growth of an individual," he added. MP Sunita Duggal, who also participated in the event, highlighted the broader mission behind Yoga Day and its relevance to national development. "I extend my greetings on International Day of Yoga. The theme of IDY this year is 'One Earth, One Health', which means we live a healthy life along with everyone else. This Yoga Day reminds us that leading healthier lives can help take the country towards the resolution of Viksit Bharat," Duggal told IANS. MP P.P. Chaudhary echoed similar sentiments, noting the international resonance of the occasion. "It is very significant that we are celebrating the 11th IDY, and everyone across the globe is celebrating it as a family. By the efforts of PM Modi, today, the entire world is observing the Yoga Day and moving towards a healthy life," he told IANS. Around the globe, people observed the IDY by joining events focussed on wellness, mindfulness, and sustainable living. This year's Yoga Day theme focussed on the role of yoga in enhancing not just physical and mental health but also environmental consciousness, echoing the global call for unity, well-being, and sustainable development.
