Is this hack with amla, bhringraj effective for premature greying hair?

How to make it?

Ingredients

2tbsp – Bhringraj powder
1tbsp – Amla powder
Rosemary or Rice water
1tbsp – Coconut oil

Method

*Mix all the ingredients in the requisite quantity

How to apply it?

Apply one hour before shampoo on damp hair, once or twice a week.

According to Mehra, with consistent application, it works. “With consistency, it can prevent further premature greying,” said Mehra.

What is premature greying?

During anagen (growth phase of hair follicle), there is a marked reduction in the number of melanocytes leading to pigment loss. This is what leads to greying of hair, said Dr Vandana Punjabi, dermatologist and trichologist at Khar, and Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital.

“Greying of hair also called ‘canities’ or ‘achromotrichia’ occurs with normal ageing. However, if this occurs before the age of 25, it is called premature greying,” added Dr Punjabi.

What causes it?

Oxidative stress as a result of ultraviolet (UV) rays, pollution, emotional factors, inflammatory causes, alcohol consumption, smoking, and chronic diseases can trigger greying of hair.

How does amla help? (Source: Freepik)

Other factors such as Vitamin B12 and D3, copper, iron and calcium deficiency, thyroid disease, chemotherapeutic drugs, sedentary lifestyle, and irregular food habits also trigger premature greying of hair, mentioned Dr Punjabi.

Is the hack useful?

Combining these ingredients into a hair mask allows for a synergistic effect, addressing various aspects of hair health. Each component brings unique properties that may contribute to maintaining hair health and colour, said Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics. “Bhringraj, known as the ‘king of herbs’ in Ayurveda, is believed to stimulate hair growth and prevent premature greying. It is rich in nutrients that nourish the hair follicles and improve blood circulation to the scalp,” said Dr Kapoor.

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is renowned for its high vitamin C content, promoting collagen production and strengthening hair. Its antioxidant properties may help prevent oxidative stress, which can contribute to premature greying.

Rosemary oil is often used for its potential to improve circulation, stimulate hair follicles, and prevent hair thinning. It also has antioxidant properties that may protect against damage from free radicals, said Dr Kapoor.

According to Dr Kapoor, rice water, a traditional beauty secret in some cultures, contains inositol, a carbohydrate that may strengthen and repair damaged hair. The amino acids in rice water could also nourish the hair and scalp.

Coconut oil is a popular natural moisturiser that can help prevent protein loss in hair, keeping it strong and healthy. It may also reduce damage from environmental factors, said Dr Kapoor.

Dr Kapoor said that regular application of this mask may provide nourishment, strengthen hair, and potentially slow down the onset of premature greying, contributing to overall hair vitality and luster.

However, according to Dr Punjabi, scientific evidence proves that although the primary cause of premature greying is primarily genetic, many other conditions play a role in greying. “Hence, topical applications like various oils and homemade remedies have no role in the treatment of this condition as this needs to be corrected at the hair follicular level and your dermatologist will guide you regarding the correct treatment,” said Dr Punjabi.

Dr Kapoor also stated that individual responses to such treatments can vary, and it’s essential to maintain a holistic approach to hair care, including a balanced diet and proper hygiene.

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