Going grey prematurely is one of the maladies of the fast paced lifestyle most of us are subject to. And while greying is a side-effect of stress and erratic schedules, if you find that you’re going grey in your 20s, it’s likely that genetics have a role to play in this scenario. Did you know that your hair follicles contain pigment cells that produce melanin? Melanin is what gives your locks its vibrant colour. Your hair starts to turn white, grey, or silver when your body stops generating melanin.
That said, if treated properly, the progression of greying can be stopped or even reversed. Of course, how you take care of yourself plays a big part. Which is why, a balanced and nutritious diet, along with proper hair care can do the trick. And given that we’re in the middle of a pandemic where social distancing is the need of the hour, your best bet when dealing with the greys are home remedies.
Here are some effective methods you can try:
Coconut Oil: Perhaps considered a superfood for hair, coconut can work wonders. From dealing with dandruff, to conditioning your hair and stimulating hair growth, it can tackle all your hair issues. Coconut oil is also a simple yet effective remedy to keep grey hair at bay. So how does coconut prevent greying? According to Ayurveda, grey hair is caused due to high body heat. Coconut oil is said to have a cooling imapct, thereby preventing hair from turning grey.
Curry Leaves: This is perhaps considered a grandmother’s remedy for dealing with grey hair. Curry leaves contain powerful antioxidants including vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, iron, magnesium, and copper. Not only does it help to reverse the growth of grey hair, it nourishes and strengthens the hair follicles, to promote healthy hair growth. When used as a hair mask, curry leaves increases the hair’s body and lustre, and conditions and smoothens tresses. Anecdotal evidence suggests that those who eat curry leaves daily, or apply its oil do not suffer from premature greying.
Onion: Rich in antioxidant enzyme catalase which restores the hair’s natural colour, onions are a must in your daily diet. Moreover, the phyto-nutrients along with vitamin C, folic acid, and copper help delay greying. A topical application of onion juice on your scalp can reduce the build-up of hydrogen peroxide and reverse grey hair. It even helps with hair loss and makes your hair grow faster, softer, and shinier.
Indian Gooseberry (Amla): Also known as nectar for hair, amla is one of the best remedies to curb the growth of grey hair. Considered one of the richest sources of vitamin C, amla contains an array of other powerful antioxidants that help to renew your hair, and make it darker, thicker, and fuller. Amla is also considered a cooling ingredient and can help pacify excess body heat, which is one of the major causes of premature greying.
Black Sesame Seeds: In traditional Chinese medicine, black sesame seeds are considered one of the best foods for hair. Along with nourishing the scalp and stimulating hair growth, they promote melanocyte activity to produce melanin, keeping your hair colour vibrant and preventing premature greying. Including black sesame seeds in your daily diet can prove to be beneficial.