By: Dr. Neena Sharma (M.D. Ayurveda)
Ayurveda views a person as a whole, so it holds that the health of any part of the body can indicate the health of the whole body as well. Our ancient sages who they created this system of medicine were indeed wise as modern science is rediscovering this truth now. So, though it may be surprising, hair-health issues can be a red flag for serious underlying medical issues.
Implications of Hair Loss
It is normal for a person to lose between 30 and 100 strands of hair daily. However, sometimes we experience excessive hair loss, which could be because of scalp and hair-health issues. Or it could indicate serious problems like:
- Nutritional deficiency – Too much hair loss can imply that your diet is lacking in several essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
- Thyroid disease – Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can lead to excess hair fall, though hypothyroidism is more commonly linked to it.
- Anaemia – Anaemia caused by iron deficiency can be behind excessive hair loss.
- Lupus – It is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the body’s own tissues. Hair fall is one of the symptoms of lupus.
Implications of Thinning Hair
Although thinning of hair is often due to genetic or age-related factors, it can also be indicative of abnormalities in the body. Any unusual hair-thinning that is not due to common factors or poor hair-health could be a symptom of:
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – This condition causes the ovaries to produce too much male hormone, causing less hair on the head.
- Heart disease – New research suggests that there might be a connection between male pattern baldness and heart disease.
- Protein deficiency – Thinning hair can also be the result of a protein deficiency caused by a protein-poor diet.
Implications of Dandruff and Dry Scalp
Dandruff is caused by the fungus Malassezia Globosa, while dry scalp can be the result of environmental factors and use of hair care products with chemicals. However, these conditions can be side-effects of other, more serious health issues like:
- Skin diseases – Dandruff or flakes that look like dandruff can indicate skin infections such as psoriasis, tinea capitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Nutritional deficiencies – Low levels of zinc and B vitamins can also cause a dry, flaky scalp. It can also indicate protein deficiency, which is a common problem in India.
- Poor hydration – Dryness of hair and scalp can also hint at a low level of hydration, especially if you suffer from dry skin in general.
Implications of Other Issues
- Greying – While greying is usually hereditary and age-related, it can also signify a Copper deficiency or high levels of stress.
- Dull hair – Dull hair is a strong indicator of a poor, unbalanced diet that is low in beneficial fatty acids.
- Brittle hair – Hair that is brittle and breaks easily can be a symptom of a zinc or iron deficiency, which can cause other serious health issues like anaemia.
To treat hair and scalp-related problems, you can use Ayurvedic products that are good for your scalp and hair. You can use products like Neem Ayu Anti Hair Fall Oil, Neem Ayu Anti Hair Fall Shampoo, Neem Ayu Anti Hair Fall Capsules, Neem Ayu Anti Dandruff Oil, Neem Ayu Anti Dandruff Shampoo, and Neem Ayu Anti Dandruff Capsules.
At the same time, it would be a good idea to determine if these problems are related only to your hair and scalp or are caused by more serious underlying issues. If you suffer from major health issues, you can then treat those problems alongside your hair and scalp issues.
(Image by Freepik)
