Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogens are basically substances that help the body build up the capacity to withstand stress and resume normal physiological functions. Stress hormone or cortisol is known to inhibit the growth of hair and hair loss is associated with higher levels of cortisol. Hence, herbs like Ashwagandha are traditionally considered non-toxic and they enhance the body’s ability to resist the damaging effects of stress. They also help in restoring the normal physiological functioning of the body.
Ashwagandha is a powerful antioxidant and is also responsible for the production of melanin which imparts color to the hair. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in it help in combating scalp problems. Ashwagandha prevents cellular damage which is often caused by free radicals. They protect your hair against UV radiation and preserve the shine of your fibers.
The benefit of using ashwagandha powder is that it can be used in a variety of ways and you can control the dosage according to your requirements and taste. You can add it to a beverage or any other drink and also include other ingredients in it. Though it can be used topically by mixing a little water and making a paste from it, ashwagandha works more effectively if you consume it.
It is available in capsule form and can be taken conveniently by swallowing a capsule with water.
The leaves, roots, and berries of Ashwagandha can be used in a powder form and can be added to your coffee, tea or smoothies to help grow hair. They could also be added to water and consumed. They can also be applied topically to your hair.
Ashwagandha Oil For Hair
Ashwagandha oil supports hair growth by making the roots stronger which curbs hair fall. It also has great conditioning properties, which help remove hair frizz and makes the tresses smooth and silky. One can use this oil at least two times a week to transform the quality of your hair.
Ashwagandha Powder For Grey Hair
Ashwagandha powder is filled with the goodness of potassium, flavonoids, fatty acids, glucose, tannins, and nitrates. It also has an amino acid called tyrosine which supports melanin production and prevents your hair from greying prematurely.
Ashwagandha Powder For Hair Regrowth
The rich protein, potassium, iron, vitamin C, and tyrosine content in Ashwagandha are very effective in promoting better hair growth. It also facilitates improved blood circulation by dilating the blood vessels which leads to the enhanced delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. It also helps in the formation of sebum and collagen on your scalp by triggering the production of dehydroepiandrosterone. This helps moisturize your hair and improves its shine and also repairs brittle hair. Collagen and sebum are very useful in protecting your hair from UV damage.
Ashwagandha also helps in the elimination of free radicals from your scalp and this helps tremendously in the growth of healthy hair. Add warm water to 3 spoons of ashwagandha powder and make a fine paste. Massage this paste gently to your hair and scalp and wash it off after half an hour. This is the best way to use ashwagandha churna for hair growth.
Ashwagandha Dosage For Hair Loss
Your daily dose of ashwagandha has to be taken with medical supervision as large doses could lead to diarrhea, an upset stomach, or vomiting. The dosage that you need depends on your bodily requirements and is based on a variety of factors. Also, people normally need to develop a tolerance for ashwagandha and therefore they need to start with smaller doses to do that.
You can use ashwagandha with water or prepare a flavourful ashwagandha tea as a potent remedy for your hair loss issues. Add a spoonful of the powder to water and boil it for 15 minutes. Pour it out into a cup and add honey and lime to taste.
You can also mix a spoonful of ashwagandha powder with ghee, honey, or warm milk. You can choose to take a daily dose of ashwagandha churna right after your breakfast. Start with a lower dose of a quarter spoon and then increase your dosage gradually.
Consuming ashwagandha directly can lead to increased heat in people with high levels of pitta. Therefore, they would need to mix ashwagandha with milk or ghee to reduce the heat. Also, it is better to take ashwagandha during the day.
If you are unsure about consuming ashwagandha, you can use it topically. Take a tablespoon each of ashwagandha, brahmi, and hibiscus powders. Add coconut milk to it and make a fine paste. Add this to your scalp and hair and wash it off after 30 minutes with a mild shampoo.
It is also available in capsule form, which is usually formulated as per the dosage and can be conveniently taken by swallowing a capsule with water.
It is said that if you manage your stress well, you are halfway towards promoting optimal hair health. This is where the properties of ashwagandha shine through. Studies have revealed that ashwagandha works effectively in managing stress and is significantly better than other options on outcomes of anxiety and stress scales.
Ashwagandha has very soothing effects that are very helpful in improving your sleep. This will reduce stress and lower anxiety levels, to help you function more effectively throughout the day. A normal dose can help reverse the damage triggered by chronic stress and is very effective in preventing it from aggravating the problem.
Ashwagandha helps moisturize the scalp and prevents its irritation. It regulates the natural secretion of oil and also helps preserve the natural oils that your skin needs.
Other Benefits Of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is also very useful in stopping inflammation and boosting immunity in the body. Ashwagandha has fatty acids, amino acids, and alkaloids along with steroidal lactones which are steroid hormones. They help control the levels of cortisol and build up stress resistance in the body. Hormonal imbalances in the body, as a result of thyroid issues, also lead to hair loss. Ashwagandha helps in controlling hypothyroidism by increasing the levels of thyroid hormones. However, people with hyperthyroidism should be cautious about using ashwagandha as it can increase thyroid levels and that could have dangerous consequences.
Ashwagandha increases the RBC count in the body and this helps increase the capacity of your blood to carry more nutrients and oxygen for your hair to curb hair fall.
Takeaway
Ashwagandha or Indian Ginseng has many beneficial properties and its popularity as a miracle herb is well deserved. It promotes longevity in a variety of ways and rejuvenates the body and mind alike. However, it is advisable to take the advice of a medical practitioner before you start to take your daily dose of this revered ayurvedic herb. This is because if you have certain body conditions, an excess dose will only serve to aggravate those problems. Due to these factors, it is best to understand and assess your hair and body conditions to find out the best remedies. If you are looking for effective solutions to your hair issues, we suggest you take the FREE Hair Test by Traya as this will help you get an accurate diagnosis of your hair loss concerns.
FAQs
Q1 - Is Ashwagandha Good For Hair?
Ans - Ashwagandha is considered one of the miracle herbs for hair and is loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals, promote hair health and prevent breakage of hair. It helps create strong hair, minimizes follicle & hair tissue damage, and leads to faster hair growth.
Q2 - Is Ashwagandha Good For Hair Loss?
Ans - Ashwagandha helps regulate cortisol levels and prevent damage to your scalp and hair. The mix has mood-boosting qualities which help curb hair loss by reducing stress and anxiety.
Q3 - What Is The Most Effective Way To Use Ashwagandha For Hair Loss?
Ans - Ashwagandha can be consumed orally or mixed with water and coffee. It can also be applied as a paste directly to hair as a remedy for hair loss. But it should always be used in consultation with a doctor.