Alopecia, is a common concern affecting both men and women. In this blog, we will delve into the various aspects of alopecia, its types, symptoms, causes, and potential complications. We will also explore the Ayurvedic perspective on managing alopecia, dietary recommendations, lifestyle tips, and precautions to prevent further aggravation.
What is Alopecia?
Alopecia is a medical term used to describe hair loss, primarily on the scalp in form of patches. The severity of this condition can range from minor patches to complete baldness. According to Ayurveda, vitiated pitta in conjunction with vitiated vata causes hair loss from the scalp. Following that, vitiated rakta and kapha block the orifices of the hair follicles, limiting the growth of new hair. The types of alopecia are classified based on the pattern and extent of hair loss.
Hair loss symptoms (Alopecia):
Alopecia manifests differently in individuals, with symptoms ranging from patchy hair loss to gradual thinning and, in severe cases, complete baldness.
- Hair loss on the beard
- Spotty hair loss
- Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes
- Bald patches on the scalp
Types of Alopecia:
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Linked to genetic factors and hormonal changes, often referred to as male or female pattern baldness.
- Alopecia Areata: Sudden hair loss in small, round patches, believed to be an autoimmune disorder.
- Alopecia Totalis and Universalis: Severe forms involving complete loss of scalp hair or hair loss across the entire body.
- Traction Alopecia: Caused by excessive tension on the hair due to tight hairstyles, leading to breakage and loss.
- Complications in Alopecia: Beyond the physical impact, alopecia can have psychological effects, causing emotional distress, low self-esteem, and reduced confidence.
Causes of Alopecia:
Hair loss is a natural process, with individuals typically losing 50 to 100 hairs daily. However, certain factors can contribute to abnormal hair loss:
- Hereditary Factors: Common with aging, causing receding hairlines in men and thinning of hair in women.
- Hormonal Changes and Medical Conditions: Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid problems, and medical conditions like ringworm or trichotillomania can lead to alopecia.
- Medicines and Supplements: Certain drugs used in cancer, hypertension, arthritis, etc., may have hair loss as a side effect.
- Mental Stress and Anxiety: Physical or emotional shocks can result in temporary hair thinning.
- Hair Treatments: Unhealthy hairstyling practices like hot oil applications, coloring, and straightening can contribute to hair loss.
In Ayurveda, alopecia is correlated with "Indralupta," caused by Vata and Pita dosha vitiation in hair follicles, obstructing the formation of new hairs.
Ayurveda for hair loss (Alopecia):
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing alopecia, combining internal and external medicines along with therapeutic procedures.
Internal Medicines:
Consuming these medicines can work effectively in treating hair loss and alopecia.
- Triphala Kashayam
- Patolamuladi Kwatha
- Nimbadi Kwatha
- Panchatiktaka Kwatha
- Kaisora Guggulu Tablet
- Vilwadi Gulika
- Dooshivishari Gulika
- Avipathi Churna
- Triphala Churna
- Khadirarishta
- Nimbamruthasava
External Medicines:
Externally apply these medicines on bald patches. Regular application everyday with water or oils (mustard oil or coconut oil) can show positive effects. Leave it for 25-30 minutes and rinse off with normal water. Repeat for 4-5 week.
- Triphala Churna
- Nimbadi Churna
- Kulatha Choorna
- Tuthadi Tablet
- Rasothamadi Lepa
- Malathyadi Kera
- Durdurapathradi Kera
- Dinesavalyadi kera
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Ayurvedic Therapies:
- Swedana (Sweating therapy)
- Lepa (Medicinal paste)
- Abhyanga (Oil massage)
- Kshalana (Washing)
- Udwarthana (medicinal powder massage)
Yoga Postures for Alopecia:
Padmasana (Lotus Pose):
- Promotes relaxation and mental calmness.
- Enhances blood circulation, potentially benefiting hair health.
Sukhasana (Easy Pose):
- Facilitates relaxation of the mind and body.
- Supports improved blood circulation.
Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand):
- Enhances blood flow to the scalp.
- May contribute to overall hair health.
Suryanamaskar (Sun Salutation):
- Boosts overall blood circulation.
- Promotes relaxation, potentially impacting hair loss.
Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose):
- Aids in relaxation and stress reduction.
- Supports improved blood circulation.
Marichyasana (Pose Dedicated to the Sage Marichi):
- Fosters relaxation and mental well-being.
- Encourages enhanced blood flow.
Ayurvedic Concept with Management of Alopecia:
In Ayurveda, alopecia is correlated with "Indralupta" or "Khalitya." Ayurvedic treatment focuses on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and promoting hair health through herbal remedies, specialized massages, and lifestyle modifications.
Precautions to Avoid Aggravating Alopecia:
During Ayurvedic treatment, precautions like avoiding excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles can prevent further damage. Managing stress levels and maintaining a balanced diet are also recommended.
Diet and Lifestyle in the Treatment of Alopecia:
A nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins supports hair growth. Foods like leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and seeds contribute to overall well-being. Regular exercise, including yoga and meditation, helps manage stress and improve blood circulation. One common question that people wanna know is, which vitamin deficiency causes hair loss? Hair loss has only been linked to deficiencies in riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12.
Conclusion:
Alopecia alopecia areata can cause hair follicle damage, resulting in hair loss. Early detection and treatment, on the other hand, can prevent further hair loss and help you regrow your lost hair. A visit to your Ayurvedic doctor to have your doshas balanced is the first step towards a holistic approach to treating alopecia areata. A nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle routines can also help to protect your hair from major damage.