Salt-and-pepper look is fashionable, but try these natural remedies to stop premature greying of hair

Poor dietary habits and deficiencies in vital nutrients like Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, and calcium can result in the greying process (Image: Canva)

In an era defined by hectic schedules and stress, our lifestyle choices can hugely impact our well-being, including the health of our skin, scalp, and hair. Several factors impact the early greying of your hair. According to a study in the International Journal of Trichology, premature hair greying is mainly influenced by genetics, with possible involvement of environmental factors like deficiencies in Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, and calcium. Some study also attribute it to sedentary lifestyles and irregular eating habits.

Genetics: While genetic factors play a major role in premature greying of hair, lifestyle choices can exacerbate the condition. According to the National Institutes of Health, variations in certain genes can influence the timing of greying.

Nutritional deficiencies: Poor dietary habits and deficiencies in vital nutrients like Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, and calcium can result in the greying process. Multiple studies highlight the importance of a balanced diet in maintaining hair health.

Stress and anxiety: Stress is dangerous for your health, including hair health. Chronic stress and anxiety are notorious for negatively impacting your mane. The release of stress hormones can contribute to premature ageing, including greying of hair.

Smoking: Your addiction to cigarettes not only harms your lungs but can also cause greying of your hair. Research indicates that the harmful components in cigarette smoke can lead to premature ageing of the skin and hair.

Chemical exposure: If your salon visits have become more frequent than ever, watch out! Excessive use of chemical-laden hair products and frequent exposure to pollutants can contribute to PGH.

Premature greying of hair can be reversed through positive lifestyle choices like regular exercise, yoga, and a balanced daily diet. Consider these natural solutions to bring back the luster to your locks:

Amla: A rich source of antioxidants and Vitamin C, amla, or Indian gooseberry, helps nurture your hair and fights oxidative stress, a notorious contributor to premature greying.

How to apply: Create a nourishing paste by blending amla powder, lemon juice with olive oil/ water. Regularly massage this onto your scalp. It not only lends essential nourishment for healthier hair but also covers the grey hair.

Curry leaves and fenugreek seeds: Curry leaves, fenugreek seeds (methi dana) and coconut oil act as a natural stimulants for melanin production, addressing the root cause of premature greying.

How to apply: Boil curry leaves, methi dana powder and coconut oil together to make a rich infusion. Regularly massage this mixture to your scalp. This encourages melanin production and slows down the greying process.

Bhringraj oil: Renowned for its hair-darkening properties bhringraj oil nourish hair follicles and stimulates melanin production.

How to apply: Gently massage this oil onto your scalp and along your hair strands. It will help establish a natural defense mechanism against premature greying.

Henna and amla pack: The combination of henna and amla powder offers a natural solution for both colouring and nourishing your hair.

How to apply: Mix henna and amla powder in water in a black metal pan and let the mixture rest overnight. This natural hair pack is excellent for hair colour. Apply it in your hair and let it sit for an hour before rinsing. It also gives vibrancy and nourishment.

Sesame oil and carrot juice: Blending sesame oil with carrot juice improves blood circulation in the scalp and supports healthy hair pigmentation.

How to apply: Gently massage sesame oil and carrot juice mixture into your scalp. Rest it for an hour. This process boosts blood flow and contributes to improved hair health.