Hair loss, thinning, premature greying, and dandruff – these hair issues have become all too common nowadays. Blame it on our changing lifestyles, pollution, stress, genetics, or the overuse of chemical-laden products. While chemical treatments promise quick fixes and magical makeovers, research often tells a different story. These synthetic solutions may offer temporary relief, but they often come with a list of side effects. The good news? Ayurveda offers a treasure trove of natural remedies, especially when it comes to hair care. Some of the best herbs for hair growth in Ayurveda have been used for centuries and are now supported by modern research. These time-tested herbs not only nourish the scalp but also strengthen hair from the roots. Let’s explore some of the best herbs for hair growth and how you can easily use them at home.
Know How Herbs Are Helpful in Hair Growth
Hair growth follows a natural cycle, which consists of three phases – anagen(growth), catagen(transition), and telogen(resting). Any disruption in the above cycle, like a shortened anagen phase or an extended telogen phase, can lead to thinning or loss of hair. Herbs play a crucial role in hair growth by normalizing the disturbed cycle.
Ayurveda’s Perspective on Herbs for Hair Growth
As per Ayurveda, hair problems are caused by the inner imbalances of the body, especially pitta and vata dosha. Conditions like balding, premature greying, and patchy hair loss are indications of doshic disturbances.
The best herbs for hair health, like bhringraj, amla, brahmi, ashwagandha, and jatamansi, are known to:
- Nourish the scalp and hair follicles,
- Strengthen hair from the roots,
- Cool down excess Pitta
- Stimulate natural hair growth
Scientific Research on Herbs for Hair Growth
Science, too, has confirmed the age-old wisdom of Ayurveda on the efficacy of herbs in hair growth.
Studies and experiments have shown that best herbs for hair fall and hair regrowth:
- Block DHT, the hormone linked to hair loss,
- Stimulate hair follicle and promote regrowth,
- Regular use of herbs reduces hair fall,
- Improve hair density and thickness.
Studies on certain herbal blends have shown a significant increase in hair count. Herbs like amla, chamomile, hibiscus, henna, and mint have shown promising results in research, providing solutions even for those seeking the best herbs for grey hair and best herbs for hair thinning.
10 Best Herbs for Hair Growth
Herbal hair care products are gaining popularity because they have fewer side effects, are effective, and are pocket-friendly in comparison to synthetic products. They are available in the form of oils, shampoos, conditioners, sprays, creams, powder, and tonics. Here are the best herbs for hair and scalp health you should definitely know about:
1.) Arnica Montana for Hair Growth
- Arnica montana, or mountain arnica, is recognized today as one of the best herbs for hair growth and strength.
- It is rich in anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-dandruff, and circulation-boosting properties.
- The herb is often used in the form of oil or shampoo.
Benefits of Arnica for Hair Growth
- Stimulates hair follicles by improving blood circulation to the scalp.
- Reduces dandruff and scalp infections.
- Strengthens hair roots, preventing hair thinning.
- Balances excess oil on the scalp.
- Promotes thicker and shinier hair.
How to Use Arnica for Hair Growth & Strength
1.) Arnica Oil Massage
- Mix a few drops of arnica oil with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil.
- Massage gently into the scalp for 10-15 minutes.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes and then wash with some mild herbal shampoo.
- Use 2-3 times per week.
2.) Arnica Hair Mask
- Combine arnica oil with aloe vera gel and honey or yogurt.
- Apply to scalp and hair evenly.
- Leave on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse off thoroughly.
- For best results, use once a week.
3.) Arnica Shampoo Add-on
- Add 5-10 drops of arnica oil to your regular shampoo.
- Shake well and use as usual to gently clean the scalp.
4.) Overnight Arnica Treatment
- Mix arnica oil with a carrier oil.
- Apply the mixture to scalp and cover your head with a towel or cap overnight.
- Wash off your head next morning with a gentle shampoo.
While arnica is generally considered safe, always perform a patch test and dilute arnica oil with a carrier oil to reduce the risk of irritation. Avoid direct sun exposure after applying arnica oil, as it may increase photosensitivity. Arnica oil must never be consumed orally as it may lead to toxic reactions.
2.) Henna for Hair Growth
Henna or mehndi is a natural dye and conditioner that improves hair strength, health, and shine. It is among the best herbs for hair loss and hair coloring. Regular use of henna can make hair thicker, healthier, and vibrant naturally.
Benefits of Henna
- Acts as a natural conditioner and protects the strands from the damage.
- Regular use makes hair strong and thick by locking essential moisture.
- Helps remove excess oil and dirt from the scalp.
- Henna fixes the dandruff problem and also prevents its recurrence.
- Help promote faster hair growth.
- Research has shown that henna reduces split ends, nourishes hair, heals damaged hair, and reduces hair loss.
- Using a henna-based conditioner after rinsing the hair thoroughly helps balance the oil secretion in the scalp.
How to Use Henna for Hair
- Wash your hair properly using a mild shampoo.
- Soak mehndi powder, amla powder, hibiscus powder, and shikakai powder either in plain water or tea water (without milk) overnight.
- To make tea water, put one teaspoon of tea in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Once the tea water cools down, soak the above powdered ingredients overnight.
- Overnight soaking helps the herbal ingredients to leave a better color to the mixture.
- Apply the mixture on your hair the next day, and let it dry.
- You can cover your head with a bouffant cap to avoid overdrying of the mixture.
- Use once every 2-3 weeks for best results.
- If you have a dry scalp, you can use oil, yogurt, or a conditioner in the above mixture.
3.) Amla for Hair Care
Known as the “Indian Gooseberry”, amla is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Its essential fatty acids, high iron and carotene content are beneficial for hair growth.
Benefits of Amla for Hair
- Prevents dandruff
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Slows down greying of hair
- Stimulates collagen production for new hair growth.
How to Use Amla for Hair Growth
- Add amla oil or powder to your homemade hair masks.
- Massage your scalp gently with amla oil to improve blood circulation and nourishment.
- Drink fresh amla juice daily for internal nourishment.
4.) Bhringraj for Hair Growth
Referred to as the “King of herbs” for hair, bhringraj is one of the best herbs for black hair maintenance and growth. Acharya Charak mentioned bhringraj as a cure for hair fall and premature greying. It not only increases the quantity and quality of hair but also turns white hair into black. This includes curing problems like hair fall, premature greying, alopecia, and dandruff.
Benefits of Bhringraj
- Treats dandruff problem.
- Improves blood circulation and strengthens the hair.
- Prevents stress-induced hair fall.
- Stimulate hair growth.
- Bhringraj leaves are used to produce natural black dye for hair.
- Provides deep conditioning to the hair.
How to Use Bhringraj for Hair Growth
1.) Bhringraj Oil: Massage with Bhringraj oil (Mahabhringraj oil is highly recommended). Regular oil massaging nourishes hair, strengthens hair follicles, reduces dandruff, and prevent premature greying.
2.) Bhringraj Powder: The powder is prepared by drying the leaves of bhringraj. It can be used in DIY hair masks.
5.) Jatamansi for Hair Growth
Jatamansi (Spikenard) is yet another herb traditionally used for hair growth. It stimulates the hair follicles and increases the strength and volume of hair.
Benefits of Jatamansi
- Reduces premature greying
- Enhances scalp health
- Stimulates hair follicles
- Increases the strength and volume of hair.
How to Use Jatamansi
1.) Jatamansi Powder for Hair Growth
- Mix 1-2 teaspoons of jatamansi powder with water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste evenly on your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse your hair with lukewarm water afterwards.
2.) Jatamansi Oil for Hair
Take a few drops of jatamansi oil and gently massage it on your scalp to stimulate the hair follicles. When jatamansi is mixed with other herbs like henna, it helps improve the hair color.
6.) Hibiscus for Hair Growth
When discussing the best herbs for hair growth, hibiscus always earns a top spot. Widely used in Ayurveda, hibiscus is backed by scientific research too.
Benefits of Hibiscus
Studies show that hibiscus leaves contain flavonoids and tannins, contributing to hair growth.
- Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, hibiscus prevents hair thinning.
- It strengthens hair follicles and reduces hair fall.
- Its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties improve scalp health.
How to Use Hibiscus in Hair Care
1.) Hibiscus & Amla Powder Paste
- Mix equal parts of hibiscus and amla powder with water to form a smooth paste.
- Apply it generously on your scalp and hair.
- Leave it for 30-40 minutes.
- Wash off with a mild herbal shampoo.
2.) Hibiscus Powder Hair Pack
- Combine 2 tbsp each of hibiscus powder and curd, 1 tbsp of honey, and warm water into a smooth paste.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
3.) Hibiscus Hair Oil Massage
Hibiscus oil is extracted from the flowers of the hibiscus plant. Massage your scalp with the hibiscus oil to nourish your hair roots and reduced hair fall.
7.) Bahera for Hair Growth
Bahera, or Bibhitaki, is another hidden gem among the best herbs for hair growth in Ayurveda. The fruit is often used as a tonic for hair growth.
Benefits of Bahera
- Bahera oil is often praised for promoting strong, long, and lustrous hair.
- Its astringent properties remove excess oil from the scalp and prevent the growth of dandruff. A dandruff-free scalp is a healthy ground for healthier and stronger hair.
- Prevents premature greying of hair.
- Helps promote thicker hair.
How to Use Bahera at Home
Bahera can be used in the form of oil or powder for hair. Mix it with other herbal ingredients to create a rejuvenating hair mask.
8.) Shikakai for Hair Growth
Shikakai has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic hair care for centuries. It is renowned as one of the best herbs for hair and scalp health. Rich in vitamins C, A, D, E, K, and antioxidants, it is well-known for the quick growth of strong and healthy hair.
Benefits of Shikakai
- Deeply moistures hair, making it soft and shiny.
- Reduces hair fall and increases the volume of hair.
- Delays the premature greying of hair.
- Its anti-dandruff properties help reduce dandruff and soothes an itchy scalp.
- Regular use of shikakai helps get longer, thicker, and lustrous hair.
How to Use Shikakai at Home for Hair Growth
1.) Shikakai Hair Cleaning Mask
- Mix 2 tsp each of shikakai, reetha, and amla powders.
- Add 10 drops of neem oil, 5 drops of olive oil (optional), and 4 tsp of water to make a fine paste.
- Apply to your hair and scalp for 20 minutes.
- Wash with a mild, herbal shampoo.
2.) Shikakai Hair Growth Mask
- Mix 2 tsp of each shikakai powder and avocado oil.
- Stir the paste well and apply it on hair and scalp.
- Leave it on for 20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
Shikakai is an excellent choice if you are looking for the best herbs for hair growth and strength.
9.) Brahmi for Hair Growth
Brahmi is another powerful herb recognized in Ayurveda as one of the best herbs for hair loss and overall scalp rejuvenation. Its beneficial compounds, such as saponins, alkaloids, and flavonoids, nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and combats common hair issues.
Benefits of Brahmi
- Prevents split ends and hair breakage.
- Fights dandruff and soothes itchy scalp.
- Improves blood circulation, strengthens the roots and promotes hair growth.
- Slows down premature greying of hair.
- Reduces stress-induced hair fall by calming the scalp.
How to Use Brahmi for Hair Growth
1.) Brahmi Hair Strengthening Mask
- Mix 2 tbsp each of brahmi, amla powder, and ½ tbsp of tulsi powder.
- Add 5 tbsp of water and 1 tbsp of coconut oil to the above mixture to form a paste.
- Stir the paste well and apply it to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on to dry.
- Once the mask dries, rinse off your hair with running water.
2.) Brahmi Hair Mask
- Mix 2 tbsp of each brahmi, reetha, and hibiscus powder.
- Add some water to the above ingredients to make a smooth thick paste.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for about an hour.
- Wash your hair with normal water.
For those seeking the best herbs for hair growth for black hair or natural remedies for hair fall, brahmi is a must-try.
10.) Aloe Vera (Ghrit Kumari) for Hair Health
Aloe vera, often termed as Ghrit Kumari in Ayurveda, stands out among the best herbs for hair health. An animal study found that oral aloe vera juice significantly enhanced hair growth within just 15 days!
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Benefits of Aloe Vera
- Its anti-microbial properties protect against bacterial and fungal infections.
- Works as a natural moisturizer, deeply hydrating dry and brittle hair.
- Helps repair and strengthen damaged hair cuticles, restoring natural shine and softness.
- Aloe vera is full of nutrients and its protein is almost similar to keratin, which plays a vital role in hair health and appearance.
- A study has confirmed that aloe vera can protect your hair from harmful sun rays.
How to Use Aloe Vera in Hair Care
- Mix aloe vera juice with water and spray the mixture on your hair to get a softer and healthier mane.
- Add aloe vera juice or powder to DIY hair masks.
- Drink fresh aloe vera juice for internal nourishment.
Takeaway Message
When it comes to a sustainable solution for hair care, nature knows best. Herbal remedies give a long-lasting solution but work slowly without causing any damage. Perform a patch test before using any herbal oil, powder, cream, or serum to avoid allergies. Using a blend of multiple herbs will ensure the best results for your hair.
What is the best herb for hair growth?
The effectiveness of herbs largely depends on the hair but Aloe Vera, Ginseng, Hibiscus are considered the best herbs for hair growth and thickness.
Which plant regrows hair?
Hair regrows depends on the person’s hair condition and health but the coach plant that supports hair regrows also contains Hibiscus flowers.
Does onion help in hair growth?
Onion is overall good for health and it also supports hair growth in many people.
Nice informative information about the subject
Thanks a lot Varun for your feedback on the article.