Premature graying of hair can be quite stressful. It is considered one of the most dreadful signs of aging and is enough to lower your confidence level. Following few natural remedies have proved to be effective in reversing gray hair and can delay the onset of gray hair, if done as a pro-active measure.
1. Oil treatments
Regular thorough massage of hair and scalp is one tried and tested remedy for gray hair. It has been used since times immemorial and passed on from one generation to another. For head massage, either a single type of oil or a combination of oils can be used. While most popular is humble coconut oil, other commonly used oils include almond oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, castor oil and mustard oil. A few drops of any essential oil can be added in the base oil to enhance the overall properties. Rosemary oil is a popular essential oil that has been found effective when mixed with other base oils to treat and prevent graying of hair. Alternatively, sage oil can also be used. These oil treatments work best, if they are repeated at least two times in a week. Positive results can be seen in a couple of months.
2. Indian goose berry (Amla)
This is one exceptionally effective grandmotherâs home remedy for gray hair, particularly popular in south-Asian subcontinent. This miraculous herb, locally called âAmlaâ is a natural rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. It is not only beneficial for the condition of your hair but also for your overall health. The herb can be used in the following ways to treat gray hair.
a. Gooseberries can be finely grounded into a thick paste that can be applied on to the scalp. It can be rinsed off after half an hour or so.
b. Fresh gooseberries may not be available all year around. However, dried Amla powder is readily available in the market these days. A thick paste can be obtained by mixing small amount of water in the powder and can be applied on to the scalp. It should be rinsed off after half an hour.
c. Consuming Indian goose berries in raw form or as a preserve is effective not just for gray hair but also general well being.
d. It can also be used as a hair rinse. Some goose berries can be simmered in water for sometime. Once it has cooled down, this concoction can be used as final hair rinse once you are done shampooing your hair.
e. A number of options of Amla oil and Amla-based shampoos, conditioners and soaps are now available at organic stores.
All the above-mentioned methods are sure to yield positive results in reversing the process of graying as well as promoting hair growth.
3. Black pepper
Topical application of black pepper has been used to delay the onset of gray hair for years. To make the concoction, mix together 1 gram of powdered black pepper, half a spoon of lemon juice, half a tea spoon of almond oil and half cup of curd. Apply this paste on to the scalp and leave it for about half an hour. Rinse it off using lukewarm water. This should be repeated twice a week to yield maximum results. Black pepper can also be consumed orally in powdered form as it is or with a few black raisins. This is an incredible natural treatment for gray hair and also is proven remedy for cold, cough and other allergies.
4. Black tea
Black tea has also been found as a natural treatment for gray hair. It can be used in a number of ways. Black tea can be boiled in water for 2 to 3 minutes and left to cool down. This solution can be then either applied to the scalp before shampooing or can also be used as final rinse after shampooing. This, however, is a temporary solution as this method does not entail long lasting results.
5. Primrose oil
Primrose oil is a rare essential oil and difficult to find. However, it is an amazing natural remedy to treat graying of hair and also preventing further damage. Primrose oil is known to stop new white hair strands from erupting. Although, not easily available but this essential oil can be bought from some well-known organic stores. If you cannot find it anywhere, alternatively you could try consuming primrose pills orally. The pills are easily available in most pharmaceutical stores. Follow the instructions about dosage mentioned carefully.
6. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is one of the most effective natural remedies for preventing gray hair. It is also used for treating hair loss and promoting lustrous shiny hair. Lemon juice can be added to coconut oil and massaged thoroughly on to the scalp. It is best to wrap a hot towel around for half an hour before shampooing your hair. Alternatively, lemon juice can also be used as final rinse after shampooing. It is a good conditioner and lends extra sheen to your hair.
Most importantly, nothing can suffice proper nutritional diet and an active lifestyle. Poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle and stress are amongst the most common factors that can cause graying of hair. Other than that, certain medical conditions can trigger graying and some medications can also cause the same as a side-effect. It is important to consult a physician to know the root cause and then take the remedial action accordingly.
