Ayurvedic treatment for premature greying

Ayurveda describes early greying as Palitya or Khalitya-related changes, and links it to aggravated Pitta, stress, sleeplessness, anger, smoking and poor nourishment of hair tissue (Asthi and Majja dhatu). This is a traditional framework. Scientific evidence that Ayurvedic treatments restore hair colour is limited.

Check for a medical cause first

Early greying can be linked to vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid problems, anaemia and autoimmune disease. A doctor can test for these. Ayurvedic measures can be added to, not used instead of, treatment of a proven cause.

Traditional approaches sometimes used

• Oiling (Shiro abhyanga): gentle scalp massage with coconut, sesame or herbal oils such as Bhringraj or Neelibhringadi. This can help scalp comfort. There is no proof it reverses grey hair.
• Amla (Indian gooseberry): used as food, juice or powder. It is rich in vitamin C. Evidence for hair colour is limited.
• Bhringraj, Brahmi and Triphala: used traditionally for hair and general wellbeing