You may have tried topical treatments to get shiny, bouncy hair, but have you considered nourishing your tresses from the inside out?
Ayurvedic hair care is all about doing just that—with herbs, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. By supporting the health of the body from within, an Ayurvedic lifestyle creates a foundation to support the growth of thick, lustrous hair. That way, the world is your oyster when it comes to styling.
In this guide, we share the top 11 Ayurvedic herbs for healthy hair growth, plus how to use them in your hair care routine. (Remember to use herbs under the supervision of a qualified practitioner to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions.)
Key takeaways
- Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to hair care, supporting hair health through proper nutrition, lifestyle, and topical treatments.
- Several Ayurvedic herbs may help support healthy hair growth, including bhringraj, amla, brahmi, hibiscus, fenugreek, and neem.
- Most Ayurvedic herbs are ingested and applied directly to hair to promote health, luster, and shine.
- Always work with a qualified practitioner when taking herbs to ensure there are no unintended side effects or drug interactions and to get the proper dosage for you.
11 herbs to consider for healthy hair growth and vitality
Herbs have been used in Ayurvedic hair care for thousands of years. Some modern research indicates these herbs may help strengthen hair, cleanse and nourish the scalp, and even support healthy growth when taken internally. Still, more research on humans is needed to confirm these benefits.
When used in cosmetics, like shampoo or hair oils, herbs can help cleanse, moisturize, and promote healthy-looking hair.
Before ingesting herbs, talk to a qualified practitioner about your unique needs and potential drug interactions. For optimal results, it's always best to pair herbs with a balanced diet and lifestyle, adequate hydration, and good scalp care.
1. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
Bhringraj, a member of the sunflower family, is believed to be one of the most potent Ayurvedic herbs for hair growth. That's why it's traditionally called the "King of the Hair," or keshraj in Sanskrit.
Traditionally, bhringraj is thought to support strong hair roots and encourage healthy growth when taken internally It’s also believed to enhance the appearance of hair color and vibrancy when applied to the hair, particularly for issues related to the Pitta dosha.
According to tradition, bhringraj’s bitter, pungent, and sweet taste may support the liver, blood health, and bone tissue, which Ayurveda links to hair health.
A 2008 animal study indicated that bhringraj oil may help stimulate healthy hair follicle production, but human studies are needed to confirm whether it would have these effects in people.
Bhringraj contains:
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin D
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Iron
It's available as a powder, tea, in herbal formulas, and in hair care products such as herbal oils. Consult a professional for personalized advice on usage.
2. Amla/amalaki/Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)
Amla, also known as amalaki and Indian gooseberry, is a nutrient-rich fruit that may offer various benefits for hair health.
Amla contains:
- Polyphenols
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Essential minerals, like potassium
Amla may offer potential benefits for overall wellness when taken internally—including heart and brain health—and it’s well-known for its ability to nourish the hair in Ayurvedic tradition. However, there’s limited research on amla for hair care, and more human studies are needed to confirm its effects.
You can take amla as a fruit, juice, capsule, hair oil, or conditioner. It’s generally considered safe, with few significant side effects reported in clinical trials.
3. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
Brahmi is a versatile herb that’s said to promote healthy hair growth when ingested by supporting follicle strength and nourishing hair from within. This may result in thick, shiny locks.
When applied to the hair, this herb may help address split ends, support hair volume, and act as a natural conditioner. It’s also believed to contribute to scalp health by addressing occasional dryness.
While there isn’t research describing brahmi’s nutritional profile, it’s known to contain phytochemicals, or plant compounds, that may have health benefits. These include alkaloids that may encourage hair growth. Brahmi may also support a healthy stress response, which could help support hair health.
There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence supporting brahmi’s use for hair, but traditional use suggests it can be beneficial for all hair types. It's traditionally used as a hair oil, powder, conditioner, or in hair masks.
4. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Hibiscus is believed to nourish hair follicles, encourage new growth, and support thickness when ingested. The plant contains mucilage, which may act as a natural conditioner when applied topically to help hair feel softer and appear shinier.
Nutrients in hibiscus include:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
Hibiscus also contains amino acids and has antioxidant qualities, which may nourish healthy hair and support natural hair color. It may also help promote healthy scalp oil production, which could help with occasional dryness.
A 2020 animal study suggests that hibiscus extracts may support healthy hair growth in mice, and an older 2003 study found similar results in rats. Human studies are needed to determine whether it would have these effects on people.
On the other hand, traditional use and anecdotal evidence support hibiscus as a beneficial herb for hair. Like other herbs, it can be used as a tea, powder, hair oil, or mask.
5. Fenugreek (Methi)
Fenugreek has many uses in Ayurveda, including reducing heat from excess Pitta.
Older 2006 research suggests fenugreek may support hair growth in both men and women when ingested, possibly by interacting with the hormone DHT. An animal study indicated it may promote hair thickness and growth when used in an herbal oil mix.
Fenugreek seeds contain several nutrients essential for hair health. These include:
- Iron
- Protein
- Vitamin A
- Folate
Additionally, fenugreek’s skin-soothing properties may nourish scalp health when taken internally by supporting healthy sebum levels and addressing occasional dryness. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these benefits for people.
Fenugreek can be used in cooking as a seed, made into tea, or added to haircare products.
6. Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Neem has cleansing properties that may help support scalp health, target periodic dryness when applied to hair, and encourage healthy hair growth when ingested. Neem is also believed to support follicle strength and scalp circulation, but scientific evidence is limited.
As a natural conditioner, neem can make hair appear smoother, shinier, and less frizzy when used in haircare products. Some research suggests that neem’s antioxidant qualities and soothing properties may help support healthy oil production and potentially support natural hair color.
It’s believed to cool the scalp, too, and regular use is thought to support strong hair and address breakage.
Neem contains:
- Fatty acids
- Limonoids
- Vitamin E
- Triglycerides
- Antioxidants
- Calcium
Neem can be used as an herbal oil, powder, or in haircare products.
7. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe vera is another cooling herb that offers several potential benefits for hair growth and health. It contains:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Copper
- B vitamins
- Folic acid
It also contains enzymes that may help remove excess oil and dirt, support balance of the hair and scalp, and promote strong follicles when taken internally.
Additionally, aloe vera’s moisturizing and soothing properties may soothe occasional dryness, address breakage, and nourish the scalp when applied topically. A 2008 study indicates aloe vera may also have protective effects against environmental factors.
While scientific evidence is limited, aloe vera’s overall nutritional profile and potential scalp health benefits may indirectly support healthy hair growth. It's generally safe to use and can be applied directly to the scalp or used in hair care products, like aloe vera gel.
8. Gotu kola (Centella asiatica)
Gotu kola is thought to help nourish natural hair growth when ingested, possibly supporting healthy blood circulation to the scalp. This herb contains nutrients including:
- Vitamin C
- B vitamins
- Calcium
- Iron
- Potassium
- Flavonoids
A 2017 cell study indicated that gotu kola may help support strong hair follicles, though research in humans is needed. The herb may also help reduce the potential for breakage and support healthy collagen production for a healthier scalp. Its purifying properties may help address occasional dryness and soothe the scalp when applied topically, too.
More research is needed, but traditional Ayurvedic use and preliminary studies suggest gotu kola may benefit overall hair health and growth when taken internally. It can be used as a powder, capsule, or directly on the hair.
⭐ Heads up: Both gotu kola (Centella asiatica) and Bacopa monnieri are known as brahmi in India, so look twice at ingredient lists to be sure you’re getting the right product.
9. Shikakai (Acacia concinna)
Shikakai is known as “soap pod” for its potential to support scalp health and encourage healthy hair growth when ingested. It offers many nutrients, including vitamins A, C, D, E, and K.
Shikakai can gently cleanse without stripping important oils, may support healthy blood circulation to the scalp, and has cleansing properties that help target occasional dryness. It can also serve as a natural conditioner when applied to hair, helping address breakage.
Shikakai may help natural hair color, too. Scientific studies are limited, but traditional use supports these benefits.
It can be used as a powder, paste, shampoo, or in other hair care products.
10. Jatamansi/spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi)
Also known as spikenard, jatamansi is a shrub with rhizomes that may encourage hair growth when consumed. It's believed to promote healthy scalp circulation and follicle strength, which may address hair thickness. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help natural hair color.
Though there isn’t specific research on jatamansi’s nutrient profile, it contains:
- Vitamins and minerals
- Phenolic acids
- Phytochemicals
- Terpenoids
- Alkaloids
Jatamansi's antifungal qualities may also help soothe the scalp and address occasional dryness. In Ayurveda, it’s said to help nourish hair texture, shine, and manageability as a natural conditioner when applied to the hair.
Traditional use and some studies support these benefits, though more research is needed. Jatamansi can be used as an oil, powder, conditioner, and more.
11. Tulsi/holy basil (Ocimum sanctum)
Tulsi, or holy basil, is known for its potential benefits for hair growth and overall health. It may help encourage healthy scalp circulation, hair strength, and hair thickness when taken internally. Its cleansing properties may help soothe occasional dryness as well.
Tulsi’s nutrient profile includes:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
In Ayurveda, Tulsi is believed to act as a natural conditioner when applied to the hair. It has a heating effect and may help balance Kapha and Vata doshas.
As an adaptogen, tulsi may help support the body’s natural stress response. It may also support healthy follicle size and strength.
There aren’t many studies on tulsi’s use for hair, but traditional use supports its benefits as a powder, herbal tea, or ingredient in haircare products.
Going deeper into Ayurvedic hair care
Ayurveda views hair health as interconnected with the health of the entire body and mind. Hair, nails, and teeth are considered a byproduct of bone tissue. Hair is also believed to be linked to the nervous system and gut, meaning that issues in any of these areas can affect hair health.
Stress can be a particular disruptor, depleting the tissues of essential nutrients and affecting the bone tissue and nervous system. When the bones don't receive enough nutrition, neither does the hair.
Ayurvedic hair care focuses on rejuvenation for the entire body and the specific tissues affecting hair health, like the bones. This holistic approach is part of rasayana, a branch of Ayurveda dedicated to rejuvenation.
Conclusion
Ayurveda offers a range of herbs that may support healthy hair growth while enhancing luster, shine, and thickness. Herbs such as hibiscus, amla, and brahmi can help nourish your hair from within—and provide other benefits to support overall well-being.
Ayurveda provides a comprehensive approach to hair health by focusing on holistic nutrition and external care. For more information on Ayurvedic medicine, explore Haveda’s blog.
FAQs
What is the most powerful herb for hair growth?
In the Ayurvedic tradition, Bhringraj—known as the “King of Hair”—is thought to be the most powerful herb for hair growth. However, more scientific studies are needed to support this.
Can Ayurveda help regrow hair?
Ayurveda has a rich tradition of holistic haircare, including several herbs that are thought to promote hair health, luster, shine, and healthy growth. These include bhringraj, brahmi, neem, hibiscus, gotu kola, jatamansi, and more. Modern studies are needed to confirm these traditional uses.
How to get thick hair according to Ayurveda?
Ayurveda promotes a holistic approach to haircare that involves nutrition, lifestyle, reducing stress, and using herbs internally and topically. Always talk to a qualified practitioner before using herbs, as they may have side effects or interact with medications.
Meet the Author Crystal Hoshaw
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