Ayurvedic Tips

Many people want to have abundant and thick hair. Having good volume in our hair makes us look nice and boosts our confidence around just about everyone. However, the hair volume can decrease gradually due to genetics or hormonal imbalance, poor diet, and lifestyle habits over time.

The good news is that various Ayurvedic home remedies and modern strategies boost hair volume naturally

So buckle down because, at the end of this article, you will know how to increase hair volume.

Did you know?

  1. Ayurveda recommends keeping the three doshas (Vata, Pitta & Kapha) all balanced for the good health of your silky tresses.
  2. Known for its hair thickening, anti-hair fall, and new growth induction properties, this herb is a must!
  3. This is a mild natural cleanser with multiple uses.
  4. Hair growth and volume are dependent upon important nutrients like Vitamins A, D & E and minerals including iron, zinc, and biotin.
  5. Regular practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can minimise stress levels, which in turn helps with hair growth.

Understanding Hair Volume

hair volume

Hair volume is related to the thickness and density of individual hair strands and the number of strands on the scalp. Your genetic predisposition, hormones, and lifestyle can all affect how thick or thin your hair volume is. With age, the diameter of our strands decreases, which, in turn, causes us to lose some volume.

Factor

Description

Hair Density

Number of hair strands per square inch of scalp

Hair Thickness

Diameter of individual hair strands

Scalp Health

Condition of the scalp, affecting hair growth

Ayurvedic Perspective on Increasing Hair Volume

As part of the holistic health system, Ayurveda has detailed information and approach to hair care. Ayurveda recommends keeping the three doshas (Vata, Pitta & Kapha) all balanced for the good health of your silky tresses.

Key Ayurvedic principles for Hair Volume

  • Dosha balance: You should know and keep your dominant dosha(s) balanced. For example, Vata types do well with nourishing oils (e.g., almonds), Pitta types thrive on cooling herbs, and Kapha ones benefit from stimulating treatments.
  • Dietary considerations: A balanced diet is essential in Ayurveda for hair growth, and it must be equipped with essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, minerals, etc.
  • Lifestyle factors: According to Ayurveda, stress management tips can help maintain healthy, thick hair. Good sleep habits and exercise can also be helpful.

Principle

Description

Doshas

Balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha energies

Diet

Emphasis on fresh, nutrient-rich foods

Lifestyle

Regular routines, stress management, and self-care

Ayurvedic Herbs and Oils for Hair Volume

herbs and oils

Want to know how to increase hair volume? Ayurveda utilises multiple herbs and oils to increase your hair volume. Some of the most prominent ones are:

  • Bhringraj (Eclipta alba): Known for its hair thickening, anti-hair fall, and new growth induction properties, this herb is a must!
  • Amla (Emblica officinalis): It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. This herb helps to nourish the hair along with the scalp. Due to this, you get a better volume of hair. 
  • Shikakai (Acacia Concinna): This is a mild natural cleanser with multiple uses. It is important to remove any buildup and balance the production of sebum.
  • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): This herb is renowned for its calming properties and ability to soothe. It keeps the hair healthy as it nourishes the scalp. 
  • Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-graecum): It has a very high protein and nicotinic acid content. That makes Fenugreek an excellent choice for someone who wants to stop their hair from losing volume. 

Herb/Oil

Benefits

How to Use

Bhringraj

Stimulates hair growth

Mix with coconut oil. Apply to the scalp.

Amla

Strengthens hair

Use as oil or powder in hair masks

Shikakai

Natural cleanser

Mix with water. Use as a shampoo.

Brahmi

Reduces hair fall

Combine with other oils for massage.

Fenugreek

Strengthens hair shaft

Soak seeds, grind, and apply as a mask.

Dietary Recommendations for Hair Volume

A rich-in-nutrient diet is the key to healthy and thick hair. Proteins found in foods like eggs, fish, and legumes make up hair strand by strand. Hair growth and volume depend on important nutrients like Vitamins A, D & E and minerals including iron, zinc, and biotin.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in avocados, nuts, and fatty fish, help prevent hair loss from dry scalps. Ayurvedic staples such as ghee, milk, and nuts can also aid in maintaining healthy hair. Eating such nutrient-rich foods every day can go a long way in offering good health and appearance to the hair!

Nutrient

Foods

Benefit

Proteins

Eggs, fish, legumes



Essential for hair structure

Vitamins

Leafy greens, nuts, seeds

Promote hair growth, prevent breakage

Minerals

Zinc, iron from meat, spinach



Support hair follicle health.

Ayurvedic Dietary Suggestions

Food

Benefits

Ghee

Nourishes hair and scalp

Milk

Provides calcium and proteins

Nuts

Rich in healthy fats and zinc

Ayurvedic Hair Treatments and Practices

Ayurvedic hair care is not just about dietary suggestions. It also combines different remedies and techniques to feed the scalp for hair growth.

1. Scalp massage with Ayurvedic oils

Warm, Ayurvedic-infused oils help to increase circulation and deliver vital nutrients to the hair follicles with gentle, regular scalp massages. Oils that can be used in this process include Bhringraj, amla, and coconut oil.

Technique

Benefits

Circular motions

Enhances blood flow

Gentle kneading

Relaxes scalp muscles

Tapping

Stimulates hair follicles

2. Herbal Hair Masks

Find potent ayurvedic herbs like methi, shikakai & brahmi for DIY hair masks and end brittle tresses once and for all!

Ingredients

Benefits

Amla and Shikakai

Cleanses and strengthens hair

Fenugreek and Yogurt

Moisturises and adds volume

Aloe Vera and Neem

Soothes scalp prevents dandruff

3. Natural Shampoos and Cleansers

Reetha, shikakai, and other gentle cleansers are also utilised in Ayurvedic shampoo, which helps remove buildup without stripping out all its natural oils.

Shampoo Type

Benefits

Herbal Shampoo

Gentle, natural cleansing

Ayurvedic Shampoo

Contains beneficial herbs

Sulfate-Free

Prevents dryness and irritation

4. Avoiding Harmful Chemicals

Ayurveda prefers to use natural, hydro-soluble materials and disapproves of harsh chemicals that will spoil hair & scalp.

Modern Techniques to Increase Hair Volume

Ayurvedic remedies may provide a rounded approach to hair loss prevention and restoration. However, the method is slow. Some contemporary techniques and products could offer quick results in increasing your volume.

1. Volumising shampoos and conditioners

Volumising shampoos and conditioners can also help lift hair at the roots, making it appear thicker and fuller. Biotin, panthenol, and polymers are common ingredients in these products.

2. Hair volumising sprays and mousses

To lift your hair immediately, you can use volumising sprays and mousses all over the hair or at the roots. They temporarily plump the hair.

3. Blow-drying and backcombing

Blow drying with a round brush, and backcombing are methods that can achieve the desired effect of thicker, more voluminous hair. Some of the tricks are effective, but caution should be exercised so that they do not damage the hair.

4. Hair extensions and weaves

Even long-term solutions, like hair extensions or weaves, can also be implemented for style. These extensions can be a great addition to achieving your desired look, but they damage real hair if applied carelessly.

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Comparison: Ayurvedic vs. Modern Techniques

To help you make an informed decision, here's a comparison of Ayurvedic and modern techniques for increasing hair volume:

Aspect

Ayurvedic Techniques

Modern Techniques

Effectiveness

Promotes deep-rooted hair health over time; improves scalp and follicle strength

Provides immediate volume but may not address underlying issues; results can vary

Cost

Generally low-cost; uses readily available herbs and oils

It can be expensive; it involves products, tools, and possibly salon visits

Side Effects

Minimal; uses natural ingredients with a low risk of allergic reactions

Potential for chemical damage; may cause scalp irritation or dryness

Ease of Use

Requires preparation, time, and consistency; involves homemade remedies and routines

Convenient and quick; products are pre-packaged and easy to use but require regular purchase

Sustainability

Focuses on long-term hair and scalp health; environmentally friendly

Often includes non-biodegradable packaging, frequent use of synthetic ingredients

Personalisation

Tailored to individual dosha and body constitution, a holistic approach

Generally, it is one-size-fits-all; it may require trial and error to find the right product

Cultural Relevance

Deeply rooted in tradition and holistic health practices

Modern, consumer-driven, influenced by trends and marketing

Lifestyle Changes for Better Hair Volume

hair volume

Both hair thinning and loss can happen due to constant stress. Regular practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can minimise stress levels, which in turn helps with hair growth. Exercise increases blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, which results in stronger fibres and, ideally, an increase in hair volume. 

Good sleep is important for general health, and hair is no exception! Get 7-9 hours of sleep a night. To make drinking more water easy, carry a small bottle everywhere and sip throughout the day.

Practice

Benefits

Yoga

Improves blood circulation

Meditation

Reduces stress levels

Deep Breathing

Enhances oxygen supply to the scalp

Common mistakes to avoid

Mistake

Consequence

Over-washing

Strips natural oils

Under-washing

This leads to buildup on the scalp

Harsh Chemicals

Causes hair damage

Ignoring Scalp Health

Results in poor hair growth

Conclusion

Combining the wisdom of Ayurveda with modern practices, you can get that sky-high volume in your hair. Recognise the building blocks of haircare - including oils species according to one of the three doshas, followed by lifestyle changes such as meditation. Consider a holistic approach that feeds your mane inside out.

FAQs

1. How can I increase my hair volume naturally?

Wondering, ‘How to increase hair volume naturally?’ You can try Ayurvedic methods like using Bhringraj, amla, and fenugreek-infused oils for scalp massages, applying herbal hair masks, and following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.

2. What are the best Ayurvedic herbs for hair volume?

Some of the most beneficial Ayurvedic herbs for increasing hair volume include Bhringraj, amla, shikakai, brahmi, and fenugreek.

3. How often should I wash my hair to increase volume?

Ayurveda recommends washing your hair 2-3 times weekly with natural, gentle shampoos. Overwashing can strip the hair of its natural oils and discourage volume.

4. Can diet affect my hair volume?

A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can significantly impact hair volume. Foods like eggs, fish, legumes, and leafy greens are particularly beneficial for hair health and growth.

5. Are there any side effects of using Ayurvedic hair treatments?

Ayurvedic hair treatments using natural ingredients generally have minimal side effects as long as you don't have any allergies or sensitivities to the specific herbs or oils used.

6. What are the best foods to eat for thicker hair?

Some of the best foods for promoting thicker, more voluminous hair include eggs, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as biotin and iron.

7. How do modern hair volumising products compare to natural methods?

Modern volumising products can provide instant results, but the effects may be temporary. Ayurvedic methods offer a more holistic, long-term approach to increasing hair volume but may require more time and consistency to see results.

References

  1. Ayurveda recommends keeping the three doshas (Vata, Pitta & Kapha) all balanced for the good health of your silky tresses. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.)
  2. Known for its hair thickening, anti-hair fall, and new growth induction properties, this herb is a must! (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
  3. This is a mild natural cleanser with multiple uses. (https://www.researchgate.net)
  4. Hair growth and volume are dependent upon important nutrients like Vitamins A, D & E and minerals including iron, zinc, and biotin. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
  5. Regular practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can minimise stress levels, which in turn helps with hair growth. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

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Zandu Ayurvedic Team

Zandu Ayurvedic Team has a panel of over 10 BAMS (Ayurvedacharya), boasting a collective experience of over 50 years. With a deep-rooted understanding of Ayurveda, they are committed to sharing their expertise & knowledge through our blogs.
We use all kinds of Ayurvedic references in our content. Please use the contact form for any editorial queries.

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