Home Remedies for Gray Hair

Home Remedies for Gray Hair


• There are several home remedies for gray hair which can be easily undertaken without burning a hole in the pocket. These home remedies include:
• Protein intake: As hair is made up of protein called keratin, good protein rich diet will help increase its production and will improve hair growth. Protein is found in meat, eggs, and cereals such as whole wheat, lentils.
• Vitamins and minerals intake: Vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, copper and zinc are some of the very important nutrients. Lack of these nutrients may also help in graying of hair. Food such as meat, poultry, fish (including shell fish), nuts, legumes, raisin and prunes are good sources of these vitamins and minerals.
• Iodine: Iodine is a must to stop graying of hair. Iodine is the element which influences thyroid gland. Any diseases of thyroid gland such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can result in graying of hair. Iodine is not only found in salt but also in other foods such as bananas, carrots and fish.
• Avoid stress: Stress is also related to graying of hair. Avoiding or overcoming stress is very important to slow down the process of graying. Regular exercise, meditation, spending quality time with family and friends can help.
• Coconut oil: Many people think this is grandma’s old trick, but studies have shown that regular application of oils such as coconut oil helps in hair damage and slowing down graying of hair.
• Amaranth: The leaves of amaranth or amaranthus are known to be one of the best home remedies for gray hair. The extract from the leaves is helpful in restoring hair color. Apply juice of amaranth leaves to hair after shampooing. and rinse
• Indian gooseberry: is considered as a wonder fruit. It is used to treat variety of ailments in Ayurveda. The dried power of Indian gooseberry mixed with coconut oil applied on the scalp can be good for graying. Consumption of Indian gooseberry improves hair growth and is also good for digestion, respiratory disorders, diabetes, heart diseases, diarrhea and dysentery. Excessive intake of raw Indian gooseberry is to be avoided. The best way to have it is in powdered form.
• Henna: Application of henna paste on the hair is another popular home remedy for gray hair. Natural henna paste can be made directly by making a paste of henna leaves with yoghurt and fenugreek seeds paste. This paste then can be applied on the hair. It is also used for natural skin dyeing with no side effects that are usually associated with artificial hair colors.
• Ayurveda: In Ayurveda, the ancient science of medicine from India it is stated that a dried powdered mix of Bhringaraja (Eclipta alba), black sesame seeds and Indian gooseberry in 2:1:1 proportion is good for hair. This powder must be taken in along with milk twice daily for positive results.
• Black tea with salt: Applying black tea along with salt is a recommended remedy for gray hair. Take a cup of strong black tea and add teaspoon of salt. Cool down this solution and apply it on hair roots. Leave it for an hour and rinse off and not shampoo it.
• Ginger with honey: Consumption of ginger and honey is also believed to be effective in treating gray hair. This mixture has been prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine.
• Ribbed gourd: Ribbed gourd is another remedy for gray hair. The vegetable should be first cut into pieces, should be shade dried and boiled with coconut oil and the remaining black residue can be applied on hair roots.
• Cow’s milk: Butter made from cow’s milk is believed to be an effective cure for gray hair. Apply it on hair roots. The enzymes in cow’s milk and butter are believed to prevent and reverse the process of graying.
• Neem oil: Neem or Azadirachta indica tree is of great significance in Ayurveda. Essential oil obtained from neem can be used as a remedy for various problems including gray hair. The oil is also helpful for head lice and dandruff. .
• Sesame: Sesame seeds, particularly black sesame seeds and sesame oil are also considered good for gray hair, according to Ayurveda. Massage sesame oil on your scalp regularly. One can also include sesame seeds in diet.
• Chyawanprash: Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic preparation said to be prepared by a sage named Chyawan. It is has fruit jam like consistency. Up to 50 herbal, fruit, oil and spices are added to this mixture. The final product gives various benefits including hair growth. A study conducted by Parle M and Bansal N has emphasized on the benefits of chyawanprash.