How to Stop Thyroid Hair Loss With Ayurveda?

Are you not focusing on your hair loss, assuming that it's a side effect of thyroid imbalance? Are the mimics of natural hormones hindering your hair growth? There is a natural way to stabilize your thyroid levels and to manage your hair loss.

Ayurveda emphasizes a comprehensive approach to thyroid problems by treating the whole person, not just focusing on a specific part of a disease. Its highly individualized treatments regulate your entire body constitution, including the stem cells of your hair follicles. Read on to learn more.

Role Of Thyroid Gland In Your Body

The thyroid gland is one of the most important endocrine glands in your body. It is located under your voice box at the front of the neck. It regulates body functions by continually releasing thyroxine hormones into your bloodstream. Thyroxine acts as a catalyst for maintaining the rate of oxidative metabolism in most tissues of your body. [1]

If your body needs more energy in certain situations like pregnancy, recovering from illness, etc., the thyroid gland produces more hormones. The pituitary gland helps the thyroid gland to make the right amount of hormones.

Cells in your body receive their 'cue' from thyroxine. Thyroxine stimulates cells to perform their functions quickly and upregulates cellular utilization of energy. The thyroid gland's functional defects result in

• Hyperthyroidism (overactive- excess release of hormones)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive- inadequate release of hormones)

What Is The Link Between Thyroid And Hair Loss?

Skin is the most extensive tissue of your body, making it one of the crucial targets for thyroid hormones. Hair follicles are skin appendages that can periodically and stereotypically undergo cycles of physiological regeneration.

The hair follicles' ability to renew is due to stem cells' presence at the hair follicles' bulges. Stem cells are responsible for hair cycling and contribute to the regeneration of tissues after wounding. [2]

Thyroxine hormone signaling is a significant regulator of the mobilization of stem cells in the hair bulge. Thyroid disease decreases the metabolic rate of bulge stem cells resulting in hair loss.

Symptoms Of Thyroid Related Hair Loss

Hair loss is one of the symptoms of suspecting thyroid disorders. Thyroid related hair loss is not severe. It just temporarily slows down your hair life cycle. However, prolonging untreated thyroid may lead to severe hair loss like alopecia areata that show signs of bald patches or discrete hair loss. [3]

Hair loss begins before you notice your imbalanced thyroid gland showing the following signs:

1. Diffuse Hair Loss

Uniform hair thinning or loss of hair density on your whole scalp

2. Change In Hair Texture

Hyperthyroidism hair texture is dry and brittle. Hypothyroidism hair texture is fine and soft.

3. Telogen Effluvium

It is a common hair loss problem.

A. You can find a handful of hair while having a head bath.

B. You can see more than 100 hair strands on your towel.

C. You may wonder if your comb is pulling out your hair each time you remove tangles.

Other common symptoms of thyroid include:

• Dry skin
• Body hair growth
• Depression and forgetfulness
• Irritability and anxiety
• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain for hyperthyroidism
• Weight loss for hypothyroidism
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Vertigo

Can Thyroid Related Hair Loss Be Reversed?

Thyroid related hair loss is temporary. Hair loss is naturally reversible if you take the right treatment for thyroid problems. The most common medicine used for thyroid disease is levothyroxine. Hair loss is one of the side effects of synthetic thyroid hormones.

In Ayurveda, the role of 'Agni' in your body is foremost to interpret hypo/hyperthyroidism's pathogenesis. Ayurvedic herbs nourish 'Agni' to achieve the thyroid gland's wholesome regular activity while supporting stem cells replenishing hair growth.

Thyroid related hair loss is reversible by controlling the excessive imbalance of thyroid hormones. It is a slow and steady process to return complete stability to your thyroid gland. Meanwhile, you can strengthen your hair follicles to resist hair loss.

The stress of the imbalance prolongs your hair follicles' resting phase, ceasing your hair growth temporarily. Ayurvedic essential oils rejuvenate the outermost part of the skin cells to reactivate your hair life cycle.

How To Stop Hair Loss Due To Thyroid?

The first step to control thyroid hair loss is to treat your thyroid problem itself. You can stop thyroid-related hair loss with the balance of fundamental bio-elements in your body. Ayurveda classifies your body constitution into three doshas.

1. Vata Dosha (dry, cold, light, minute, and movement)

2. Pitta Dosha (heat, moistness, liquidity, and sharpness and sourness)

3. Kapha Dosha (heaviness, coldness, tenderness, softness, slowness, lubrication, and the carrier of nutrients)

Pitta, the dominant fire element, is energy that directs digestion and enhances metabolism. Agni, the fire principle, or cellular intelligence leads to the body's physiological and psychological processes. It includes cellular metabolism and the regulation of hormones at the level of neurons.

The objective of Ayurvedic treatments is to address the root of your problem by decreasing inflammation and regulating the immune system. Coating of Kapha dosha and fat tissue prevents Agni at the cellular level, leading to the malfunction of the thyroid gland. The treatment aims to remove the layer and enhance the work of Agni in metabolism.

Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix, says, “Hypothyroidism is predominantly a Kapha Vata disorder. The increased dampness of Kapha and the drying action of Vata over this Kapha plugs the channels, affecting the natural flow of hormones and metabolism. To put it simply, diet and lifestyle that is Kapha Vata-reducing, helps.”

Put a stop to your hair loss while trying to balance your thyroid hormones in four possible ways:

1. Ayurvedic Herbs

The thyroid gland is sensitive. It readily reacts to stress. Ayurvedic medicinal herb extracts have been used for centuries in India to diminish and alleviate physical and mental stress. Scientific research proves the medicinal properties of Ayurvedic herbal extracts. Few of them are immunomodulation, brain antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing. [4]

Let us have a look into the medicinal herbs and how to use them for curing and preventing thyroid hair loss:

A. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a prominent herb in the medical history of Ayurveda. It is also called Indian ginseng or Winter cherry. It consists of antioxidants. It is included in most thyroid supplements. It has revitalizing effects on thyroid health:

• Ashwagandha roots can stimulate your thyroid hormones.
• It explicitly boosts the serum concentrations of thyroid hormone.
• It directs thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to travel to the pituitary gland for the accurate release of hormones.
• Ashwagandha stops postpartum hair loss.

How To Use?

Ashwagandha's leaves and roots are powdered to use it as a medicine. Concentrated extracts are not recommended. It is often prescribed with the combination of Bauhinia bark and Guggul gum. It is effective both at high and low doses (50-100 mg to 600-1200 mg per day)

• Take a teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder.
• Mix it with honey, water, or milk.
• Have it twice a day.

Side effects are infrequent and mild. If you use high doses for a long time and your body is not well-tolerated, you may have a slight headache, sleepiness, and stomach upset.

B. Brahmi

Brahmi herb or Bacopa has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic medical practices. It is a highly potent medicinal plant and is included in a few thyroid supplements.

• It has a potent stimulant effect on the function of the thyroid gland.
• It promotes tissue regeneration that reflects your hair growth.
• It contains alkaloids to activate proteins responsible for hair growth.
• It aids weight loss by controlling hunger.
• It increases your energy.
• It elevates your mood levels.

How To Use?

• Traditionally, Bacopa is consumed with ghee.
• It is fat-soluble. Better take it at mealtime.
• Typically, it is taken in the dose of 200-400 mg daily.
• Bacopa works slowly but effectively. Use it for at least three months to see the results.
• It is usually prescribed in high doses. It is easier to take it as a supplement.

If Brahmi is not suitable for your body, you may have nausea, stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, increased bowel movements, dry mouth, fatigue.

C. Guggul

Guggul is a fragrant resin from a thorny tree. It contains an active compound called guggulsterone. It can tackle numerous health conditions, including thyroid.

• Improves iodine uptake of the thyroid gland
• It reduces medical dosage by naturally supporting the thyroid gland.
• Guggul stimulates your hair growth and thickness.
• It is anti-inflammatory
• It has antioxidant effects.
• It manages your cholesterol levels.

How To Use?

• The best way to use Guggul is in the form of a supplement where it is combined with the traditional complex formulations such as Triphala. The doctor must recommend the dosage.
• An Ayurvedic tonic Triphaladya Guggulu is proven to have a positive impact on thyroid levels by normalizing the impaired Agni. Take 500mg of this tonic with lukewarm water twice a day.

Guggul's direct intake may have side effects like diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal pain, and skin rash.

D. Punarnava

Punarnava is a virtuous herb that rejuvenates your whole body. Several parts of the plant are used to make a supplement.

• It is an excellent diuretic to reduce the swelling and numbness related to thyroid imbalance.
• It repairs your damaged hair due to thyroid problems.
• It balances your Tridoshas and removes toxins from your body.
• It has high significance in promoting digestive metabolism.

How To Use?

• Take 20 ml of extract twice a day with a glass of milk or water on an empty stomach.
• You can also use Punarnavadi Kashayam; an Ayurvedic tonic proved as the best natural medication for thyroid disease. Take 30 ml of this tonic twice a day before meals.

Side Effects

• Inappropriate use may increase your blood pressure
• Few people experience a burning sensation in the throat
• People with ethanol allergies may have an allergic reaction.

E. Kanchanar Guggulu

Kanchanar is another medicinal herb for thyroid. Guggulu means protection from the disease. Kanchanar Guggulu is an Ayurvedic formulation combined with other herbs for treating thyroid.

• It reduces the accumulation of Kapha in your tissues by breaking down deep-seated Kapha.
• Supports proper function of the thyroid by normalizing the secretion of thyroid hormones.
• It eliminates toxins from your body tissues.
• Cures hair fall and increases hair volume.

How To Use?

Kanchanar Guggulu is available in the form of a tablet. An Ayurvedic practitioner must prescribe the dosage suitable for the type of your thyroid problem. The typical dosage is 125 mg to 1 gm. The maximum dosage must not exceed 4 gm per day.

It is safe to use under the guidance of an Ayurvedic physician. It is restricted in pregnancy. Sensitive people may have mild gastric irritation and skin rash.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to treat thyroid patients with fatigue. The aroma of certain oils distilled from medicinal herbs reduces fatigue. Also, the aroma of a few essential oils strengthens your hair follicles. The mixture of essential oils with carrier oils is applied to your scalp to fight hair loss and get back your lustrous hair.

Read on to know the essential oils with medicinal aroma and their application to balance your thyroid levels and get rid of your hair loss:

A. Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil is extracted through the steam distillation of dried lemongrass. It has a distinct aromatic citrus flavor, making it a cooking oil. It is potent and purposeful to your body. It is most commonly used in aromatherapy as support for the immune, joints, and muscular systems. 

• It has anti-inflammatory properties.
• It helps to detox your thyroid gland and maintains natural lymphatic function.
• If you have a swollen or inflamed thyroid area, take a few drops to apply it topically. It provides relief.
• Mix 3 drops of lemongrass with 3 tbsp of carrier oil. Massage your scalp with it to avoid hair loss.

B. Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil has potent, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and pain-relieving properties. It is beneficial in improving dry scalp and weak hair shafts that are caused by thyroid imbalance. It destroys free radicals in the body that supports the thyroid.

Dilute three drops of frankincense oil with almond oil jojoba oil and apply it to your scalp. The same can be applied topically on your thyroid gland(part of the neck below your voice box).

C. Myrrh Oil

Myrrh oil has been used for ages as an anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces inflammation and has antioxidant properties. Scientific research suggests that rubbing two or three drops of myrrh oil on the thyroid gland can help support your thyroid health.

Mix a few drops of myrrh oil with three drops of frankincense oil or other anti-inflammatory oil to apply it on your scalp to strengthen hair follicles.

Word Of Caution: Essential oils are not meant to be swallowed directly.

D. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood oil has anti-anxiety properties. Use a few drops of sandalwood oil by applying it topically at your pressure points. Diffuse sandalwood oil through an aromatherapy diffuser, it effectively treats anxiety caused by thyroid. It contains santalol that is responsible for its scent and calming effects.

Add a few drops of this oil to coconut oil to massage your scalp. Use it for your hair for six days in sequence. It increases the Keratin levels in your scalp that can build healthy hair strands.

E. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is known to aid digestive metabolism. If your metabolism is sluggish from an underactive thyroid, drink peppermint herbal tea every night.

Peppermint oil has a fresh smell and tingly sensation on your scalp. Add a few drops to your hair care regimen to stimulate hair growth.

3. Home Remedies

Thyroid hair loss can be cured with positive changes in your lifestyle. Diet and yoga are some significant modifications to make your routine healthy and blissful.

A. Iron

Hair growth requires two proteins in your red blood cells - ferritin and hemoglobin. Thyroid decreases the levels of ferritin and hemoglobin in your blood. Having a diet rich in iron boosts the levels of the two proteins.

Intake of foods rich in iron helps to protect your hair from falling out. Iron supports your hair follicles to withstand the thyroid imbalance.

B. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Anti-inflammatory foods support your thyroid function. Turmeric and ginger are the most common ingredients in Indian cooking, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Intake of anti-inflammatory foods induce proactive hair restoration by opening up your hair follicles for more hair growth.

Avoid foods causing inflammation such as processed foods like sugars, red meat, fried foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Inflammation makes your thyroid worse, including hair loss.

C. Iodine

The thyroid gland makes hormones by absorbing Iodine from the food you consume. Iodine is naturally present in your cooking salt. Make sure to buy an iodized salt.

The recommended dietary intake of Iodine is 150mg. Too much of Iodine intake may worsen the function of your thyroid gland and hair loss.

D. Yoga

Weight gain is a side effect of imbalanced thyroid. Make a habit of practicing Surya namaskars in an open place with adequate sunlight and fresh air. Sarvangasana also regulates the functioning of the thyroid gland and promotes hair growth.

Yoga decreases your bad cholesterol levels. It helps remove the coating of fat tissue and Kapha Dosha in your cells, regulating your metabolic rate. Excess fat in your body releases leptin that increases your hair loss, the reason why weight gain is a factor for hair loss. [5]

Vedix Tip: Wash your hair with a herbal shampoo to retain sebum, an oily substance naturally produced in your hair follicles.

4. Medical Treatments

The modern system of medicine is still researching for better and more effective management of thyroid imbalance. Taking synthetic thyroid hormones may balance your TSH levels, but the increased dosage and continuous medication make you drug-dependent till the end of life.

A doctor usually prescribes a synthetic hormone called levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine has side effects that include hair loss.

Treatment for hyperthyroidism requires antithyroid drugs. Antithyroid medications prevent your thyroid gland from secreting excess hormones. The commonly used medicines for hyperthyroidism are Propylthiouracil (PTU) and Methimazole (Tapazole).

Common adverse reactions for these medicines include hair loss. Strictly follow the dosage prescribed by the doctor.

The Last Word

Every tissue needs thyroid hormone, including the most extensive tissue of your body, the skin. The thyroid controls the metabolism rate of your hair stem cells, the reason for hair loss during the malfunction of the thyroid.

Ayurveda relates the concept of Agnimandya to thyroid. Scientific research proves the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment for thyroid. Doctor prescribed dosages of Ayurvedic herbal supplements can stabilize your thyroid hormones up to an extent and cure hair loss. Essential oils stimulate hair growth and reverse thyroid-related hair loss.

Ayurvedic treatments nourish your whole body, including the roots of your hair. You can balance your thyroid levels, meanwhile having lustrous and beautiful hair.

Know Your Dosha Now