Ayurveda is a form of holistic medicine that dates back to ancient India. Today, more and more people around the world are learning about the many benefits of practicing Ayurveda in order to improve the health of their entire bodies, including their hair. Using natural remedies such as oils and herbs, as well as yoga and meditation, Ayurveda’s ultimate goal is to bring balance back to the body and, in doing so, allowing it to heal itself.
If you want to maintain strong, healthy hair using natural Ayurvedic methods, continue reading.
The 3 Doshas
There are three doshas, or body constitutions, in Ayurveda, and determining which one dominates your body will help you choose the best treatments for strong, healthy hair. Pitta is represented by the fire element, Vata is the air element, and Kapha is the earth element.
Vata Dosha Imbalance
When there is too much Vata in the body, there is too much air and too much movement. Hair that lacks luster, is dry and frizzy, and tends to get dandruff falls into the Vata category. To counteract the air element, you need to add plenty of moisture to your diet. Avoid raw foods, caffeine, cold drinks, and processed foods. Massaging your scalp with Ayurvedic oils, such as brahmi oil, bhringaraj oil, and sesame oil can help your hair get thicker and stronger too.
Kapha Dosha Imbalance
Those with a Kapha constitution tend to have thick hair but it also tends to be too oily. Spices in the diet, such as onions, garlic, and chili, are great for Kaphas. Avoid oily, fried, sweet, and salty foods and focus on eating light, warm foods instead. Kaphas should also avoid all dairy products. Although it is easier to take care of Kapha hair than the hair of other doshas, massaging the scalp can work wonders at maintaining the health and beauty of the hair. Use olive oil or mustard oil and wash the hair regularly to avoid the excess build-up of oil.
Pitta Dosha Imbalance
When there is too much Pitta in the body, there is too much fire. Symptoms include premature greying, an oily scalp, and hair loss. But instead of seeing a hair loss doctor, you can try treating the problem at home. Avoid foods that are sour, spicy, or acidic. You also want to steer clear of fried and fermented food. Also, cut back on alcohol. Instead, focus on cooling foods, such as melons, pears, and other fruits, and consume plenty of green leafy vegetables, even if you have to juice them to enjoy them. And to cool off the scalp itself, apply coconut oil to your hair and scalp during a massage.
In Ayurveda, the goal is to help the body return back to a state of balance, and you do so by figuring out what dosha is out of balance and then adjusting your lifestyle and diet accordingly. When it comes to hair care, Ayurveda can help you enjoy a full head of soft, voluminous hair.
Nancy Baker is a freelance blogger and an ace creative write with many years of experience writing for top blogs. Nancy has written on a myriad of topics and has written several posts for us.