Ayurvedic doctors in India have used one potent root's therapeutic properties for over 8000 years to treat a wide range of illnesses. Ashwagandha, a type of adaptogen first identified by the oldest medical sciences, has been used topically and orally to treat many mental and physical health issues. 

The two words that make up the name "ashwagandha" are "ashwa," which means "horse," and "gandha," which means "fragrance." The name of the plant alludes to the root's equine scent and the strength resembling a horse that is said to be obtained by ingesting it.

Along with the horse-like strength and the host of other health benefits of this herb, it also has potent benefits for hair.

In this article, we'll understand more about the herb, look at ashwagandha's benefits for hair, and learn how to incorporate it into our routines for maximum benefits! 

Table of Contents:

• About the Ancient Herb
• The Top 5 Ashwagandha Benefits for Hair
• Helps Alleviate Hair Loss
• Acts as an Antioxidant
• Helps Reduce Scalp Irritation and Inflammation
• May Reverse Hair Graying
• Repairs and Protects the Scalp and Hair from Damage
• How to Use Ashwagandha for Hair
• Hair Mask
• Shampoo
• Oral Supplements

About the Ancient Herb

The ashwagandha plant is a modest shrub with yellow flowers that is indigenous to Southeast Asia and India. The plant's roots or leaves are used to make extracts or powder. Its many noteworthy effects make ashwagandha a useful herb. According to some studies, ashwagandha is effective in treating arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, stress, and anxiety. 

It has also been used by people for thousands of years to boost energy and sharpen focus. 

But there are also other benefits of this amazing ingredient. Most of us are worried about both hair growth and hair loss when it comes to hair care. Although research is still being done, ashwagandha may lessen hair loss while also promoting hair growth.

The Top 5 Ashwagandha Benefits for Hair

Let's take a look at the most notable ashwagandha benefits for hair below.

• Helps Alleviate Hair Loss

Hair loss and hair shedding are frequently brought on by stress. Ashwagandha may provide a quick fix for controlling your body's cortisol levels, preventing follicle damage and hair loss. The herb has innate mood-enhancing properties that reduce hair loss by reducing stress and anxiety.

• Acts as an Antioxidant

The production of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone that occurs naturally in your body and is the best antioxidant, is stimulated by ashwagandha. As a result, ashwagandha aids in neutralizing free radicals in your scalp and roots and encourages healthy hair growth.

• Helps Reduce Scalp Irritation and Inflammation

Ashwagandha enhances the general health of your roots, thanks to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. It manages inflammation-related allergies and scalp conditions like eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, and itching.

• May Reverse Hair Graying

Ashwagandha contains an amino acid called Tyrosine, which aids in promoting melanin production in your hair follicles. Thanks to this, you can stop your hair from prematurely graying and replenish lost melanin.

• Repairs and Protects the Scalp and Hair from Damage

Ashwagandha can boost collagen and sebum production on your scalp by stimulating the production of DHEA. This repairs your dry, brittle hair while maintaining the condition of your scalp and hair texture. Sebum and collagen also shield your scalp and hair from sun damage.

How to Use Ashwagandha for Hair

Following are the best ways to incorporate ashwagandha into your routine to get all the benefits listed above.

• Hair Mask

Make a paste by combining 1-2 tsp of ashwagandha powder with water. Apply this mixture directly to your scalp. By wearing a shower cap, you can allow the hair to absorb the benefits of ashwagandha. After 30 minutes, rinse off with a high-quality organic shampoo.

Alternatively, you can add the powder to a nourishing hair mask and use it on your scalp and hair.

• Shampoo

For topical use, it can also be mixed with your shampoo. Simply take the amount of shampoo you need for one wash, add half to one tsp of ashwagandha powder to it, and mix it. After mixing the powder with your regular shampoo, massage the mixture into your scalp and leave it on for a few minutes. While rinsing it off, ensure that no power residue is left behind.

It's best to use an all-natural, 100% vegan cleansing shampoo for this, as it will also help nourish your hair and scalp in the process.

• Oral Supplements

Several hair supplements available in the market contain ashwagandha these days. You can also find ayurvedic ashwagandha supplements in the form of tablets or capsules. You can take these oral supplements in 300-500mg doses daily.

Another way to ingest ashwagandha is to incorporate ashwagandha powder into your meals. However, the taste may not appeal to everyone. Tablets are the simpler alternative for this.

You can also make the tea by boiling a couple of dried ashwagandha roots or a spoonful of ashwagandha powder in water. After straining the decoction into a cup, add a spoonful of honey and a few drops of lemon for a refreshing taste.

Ashwagandha is an ancient super-herb used to treat many ailments and to get horse-like strength. It has numerous health benefits and is easily available in root, powder, or supplement form. You can also get several ashwagandha benefits for hair by including it into your routine in the simple ways mentioned above!