Alopecia

In Ayurveda, alopecia (khalitya) arises when aggravated pitta doṣa and weakened rasa (plasma) disturb hair roots. This imbalance reduces nourishment to asthi dhātu (bone tissue), the foundation of hair. The result is patchy hair loss, thinning, or baldness. Balanced agni and strong ojas restore healthy, anchored hair growth.

Common Causes of Alopecia

Excessive pitta from spicy or heated foods
Stress weakening ojas and circulation
Nutritional deficiencies affecting dhātu strength
Overuse of chemical hair treatments
Genetic predisposition or chronic illness

Symptoms of Alopecia

Patchy bald spots on scalp or beard
Excessive daily hair shedding
Gradual thinning of hair volume
Weak, brittle, or easily breakable strands
Psychological stress from visible hair loss

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Alopecia

Cooling herbs like amalakī and bhr̥ṅgarāja
Regular śiro abhyanga (oil massage) for scalp
Strengthening agni to nourish tissues
Rasāyana (rejuvenative) herbs like aśvagandhā
Stress reduction with yoga, rest, and meditation