Yoga guru and Patanjali founder Baba Ramdev has suggested a range of Ayurvedic home remedies to address hair loss, attributing the problem largely to lifestyle-related factors and internal health issues rather than external causes alone.
According to Ramdev, poor liver and kidney health can adversely affect both hair and skin. He said such imbalances often lead to dull skin and increased hair fall. Emphasising Ayurveda over allopathic treatment, he maintained that hair loss could be managed effectively through simple, natural remedies practised at home.
Ramdev said that losing 50 to 100 strands of hair a day is considered normal. However, excessive hair fall beyond this range may indicate an underlying problem. He explained the three phases of hair growth: the anagen or growth phase, which lasts between two and seven years; the catagen or transition phase, lasting two to three weeks; and the telogen phase, which lasts two to three months and involves hair shedding. According to him, abnormal hair loss is linked to a prolonged or intensified telogen phase.
He also cited poor diet, unhealthy lifestyle and stress as major contributors to hair loss. Hormonal imbalance, he said, plays a significant role as well. In men, dihydrotestosterone is believed to shrink hair follicles, leading to thinning hair, while in women, hair loss may occur due to menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome or post-pregnancy changes. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly of protein and micronutrients, were also identified as key factors.
Among the remedies suggested, Ramdev spoke about the traditional practice of rubbing fingernails together, which he claimed helps improve hair health. He also highlighted iron and micronutrient deficiencies as common causes of hair weakening.
Ramdev recommended the regular consumption of bottle gourd juice, stating that it helps address internal imbalances linked to hair fall. He said adding amla (Indian gooseberry) to the juice enhances its benefits. The juice, he advised, can be consumed in the morning, with optional additions such as coriander leaves and mint. Lemon juice may be added for its vitamin C content, though he cautioned that people with acidity should avoid it.
Amla, according to Ramdev, is particularly beneficial for hair health. He suggested consuming it in the form of juice, candy or preserve, describing it as an affordable and effective natural remedy.
