This ancient practice can help you grow stronger, thicker hair

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian practice based on the connection between mind and body. Only when you’re in touch with both can you achieve optimal health from top to toe – your hair included!

Ayurvedic medicine suggests that caring for your head and scalp will not only benefit your hair but also the rest of your body, and it’s an idea that’s become so popular, beauty writers and bloggers have started trending this theme. We looked into the process to find out just how Ayurveda can help you grow long, thick, healthy hair. The answer? It’s all in the ingredients, which you can find at beauty supply shops, Clicks and Dischem.

Take a look at this breakdown of Ayurvedic hair-enhancing powders:

Neem: an antibacterial powder that has the power to control dandruff, promoting a healthy scalp.

Henna: a natural dye that strengthens hair, temporarily thickens hair shafts, and adds shine and smoothness.

Brahmi: excellent antioxidant properties to help reduce hair loss and promote hair strength.

Amla: wonderfully conditioning and nourishing.

Bhringraj: helps to reduce hair loss.

Shikakai: works on your scalp, helping to reduce oil.

Hibiscus: encourages hair growth, and has superior conditioning properties.

Ayurvedic hair recipes

To shampoo:

Add 2 tsp of your powder of choice (distilled in water and filtered) into your regular shampoo. Or choose a shampoo containing Amla oils.

To mask:

Mix 2 parts shampoo with 1 part conditioner, 1 part water, and 2 to 4 drops of your favourite essential oil. Create a loose paste and allow it to sit overnight to absorb more of the water and create a spreadable paste by morning. Add a few drops of water if too thick, then wear on your hair for 10 minutes and wash out.

For a hot oil treatment:

Warm ½ cup of coconut oil until melted and add 1 tsp of your powder of choice to the oil. Drizzle onto scalp, massage throughout hair, and allow to sit under a plastic cap for an hour or leave it on overnight. Rinse off.