How To Increase Melanin In Hair Ayurveda?
Discover Ayurvedic remedies to naturally boost melanin production and restore your hair's natural colour. Enhance hair health with herbs, oils, and diet for vibrant, youthful hair.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 28th May, 2025
Introduction
Hair turning grey or losing its natural colour can be worrying, especially if it happens prematurely. Melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour, tends to decrease with age, stress, or poor nutrition. While modern treatments exist, Ayurveda offers natural and holistic ways to boost melanin production and restore hair health.
Understanding Melanin and Grey Hair
Melanin is a natural pigment produced by melanocytes (specialised cells) that gives colour to our skin, hair, and eyes. When melanin production slows down, hair starts losing its colour, turning grey or white. Factors that contribute to reduced melanin include:
Ageing – Natural decline in melanin production over time.
Genetics – Family history of premature greying.
Stress – High stress levels can accelerate greying.
Nutritional Deficiencies – Lack of vitamins like B12, iron, copper, and zinc.
Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, pollution, and excessive chemical hair treatments.
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Ayurvedic Approach to Increasing Melanin
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, believes that premature greying is linked to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha (heat element). Excess Pitta can lead to oxidative stress, damaging melanocytes. Ayurveda suggests natural remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications to restore melanin and promote healthy hair.
1. Ayurvedic Herbs to Boost Melanin
Several herbs in Ayurveda help stimulate melanin production and improve hair health:
Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba)
Known as the "King of Herbs" for hair, Bhringraj helps darken hair and prevent premature greying.
How to use: Apply Bhringraj oil or paste on the scalp regularly.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, Amla strengthens hair follicles and enhances melanin.
How to use: Consume Amla juice or apply Amla oil to the scalp.
Curry Leaves (Murraya Koenigii)
Packed with proteins and beta-carotene, curry leaves help restore natural hair colour.
How to use: Boil curry leaves in coconut oil and massage into the scalp.
Black Sesame Seeds (Til)
High in copper and iron, sesame seeds promote melanin production.
How to use: Eat a teaspoon of soaked black sesame seeds daily.
Henna (Mehndi)
While not a melanin booster, henna naturally colours hair and conditions it.
How to use: Mix henna powder with yoghurt or tea and apply as a hair mask.
2. Ayurvedic Hair Oils for Melanin Boost
Regular scalp massages with Ayurvedic oils improve blood circulation and nourish hair follicles:
Bhringraj Oil – Stimulates melanocytes.
Amla Oil – Prevents premature greying.
Neelibringadi Oil – Traditionally used to darken hair.
Coconut Oil + Lemon – Helps retain natural hair colour.
3. Diet and Nutrition for Melanin Production
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in melanin synthesis. Include these foods:
Iron-rich foods: Spinach, lentils, dates, and beetroot.
Copper-rich foods: Nuts, seeds, mushrooms, and dark chocolate.
Vitamin B12 sources: Eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals.
Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, green tea, and turmeric.
4. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips
Reduce Stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to balance Pitta.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Limit hair dyes and heat styling.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
Scalp Massage: Improves blood flow to hair follicles.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If premature greying is accompanied by hair loss, thinning, or scalp issues, consult an Ayurvedic doctor or dermatologist. Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and personalised hair care solutions.
Final Thoughts
While greying is a natural process, Ayurveda provides gentle, natural ways to slow it down and enhance melanin production. By incorporating these herbs, oils, and dietary changes, you can maintain healthy, youthful hair.
Book an online consultation with an Ayurvedic specialist on Apollo 24|7 today!
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Consult Top Dermatologists
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Usha B K
Dermatologist
4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Ridhima Lakhani
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB
New Delhi
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Delhi, New Delhi
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mayuri Jain
Dermatologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy
Delhi
Dr Mayuri Jain Clinic, Delhi
