Stress, worry, anxiety, and inadequate nutrition lead to hair loss and premature greying of hair. A certain amount of hair loss is considered normal, as old strands are replaced by new. When hair loss is excessive, care must be taken. Similarly, the greying of hair after a certain age is a normal phenomenon, but when this starts in the early years of life, one should look for remedies. This is a common problem in young adults, making them look older than their age. It can also occur in children. In Ayurveda, this disorder is known as khalitya-paalitya.

Home Remedies:

• Mix powdered Indian gooseberry (amla; amalaki) and sesame seeds in equal amounts. Take 1 teaspoon twice a day with water.
• Heat 250 millilitres of coconut oil in a pan, and add 3-4 Indian gooseberries cut into pieces. Heat until the gooseberries turn dark brown or black. Use the oil for a hair massage 2-3 times a week.
• Take 1 cup of curry leaves and grind them with 1 cup of buttermilk. Apply this to the hair for 1 hour, and then wash the hair with a herbal shampoo.

Diet and Lifestyle:

1. Massaging your scalp for a few minutes daily will help stimulate circulation. Good circulation in the scalp keeps hair follicles active. Circulation may be improved through massage by using a few drops of lavender or bay essential oil in an almond or sesame oil base.
2. Increase intake of fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables and vegetable juice prepared from lettuce, carrot, capsicum, and alfalfa.
3. Avoid using chemical products on the hair. Try to use herbal oils and shampoos only. Avoid foods like spicy, heavy and oily foods, as well as tea and coffee. Avoid refined foods, refined sugar, junk food and alcoholic and carbonated drinks.