One sign of healthy hair is its sheen and lustre. No matter the length, we all want hair that’ll bounce when you move and feel like silk between our fingers. Well, the secret lies in ancient Indian Ayurvedic remedies which will strengthen your hair from deep within, leaving it soft, shiny and healthy. Let’s find out how we can harness the power of natural ingredients that act as superfoods for your hair, all the while being super sustainable and healthy, not just for you – but also for the planet!

Oil it up, mama!

Yes, there is truth to this grandma’s remedy. This practice has been carried out for millennia and for good reason. Oils such as coconut oil, olive oil and even castor oil can deliver deep conditioning to your tresses, keeping them soft and supple. For a boost, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. We suggest rosemary, lavender or juniper for added benefits. Plus, it also doubles up as a calming nighttime routine with a bit of head massage! Once a week, take a few teaspoons of oil in a bowl and warm it up for a few seconds in the microwave. Part your hair and start applying the warm oil to your scalp to your ends. Wash using a mild shampoo in the morning.

Reduce your washes

Your hair really doesn’t need to be washed every single day! Let the natural oils coat your hair and bring back its lost lustre. Washing it every day strips the hair and makes it oilier as your scalp overcompensates by producing more sebum. Wash your hair only twice or thrice a week.

Eat up

Ayurveda believes that healthy hair begins from the inside. Hair is a product of what you eat, so include a bunch of nuts, leafy greens, sesame seeds, whole grains and healthy fatty acids like Omega 3 in your diet. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water every day. As a bonus, your skin will glow too! Win-win!

Give your hair some TLC

On days where your hair just refuses to co-operate, give it a bit of extra love and care. Here are a few masks you can try:

• For volume

In a small glass bowl, mix 1/3 cup of amla powder and 3 tablespoons of yoghurt. Apply this mixture to the length of your hair, starting with your scalp. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let it sit for an hour. Rinse using warm water. The amla is rich in vitamin C which gives your hair its bounce and shine. It also helps deal with dandruff and itchiness. It is a Tridosha Hara herb that protects the hair against pollutants while increasing blood circulation.

• For strength & length

Soak half a cup of methi or fenugreek seeds overnight. In the morning, blend it well with a tablespoon of aloe vera gel. Apply it to your scalp and your hair and let it sit for an hour. Rinse using warm water. Methi is rich in vitamin C, K, and A as well as folic acid. It also contains trace minerals like iron, calcium and potassium which are crucial for hair health.

• For shine

Crush a few fresh hibiscus flowers or get a powdered hibiscus for yourself. Using fresh or powdered, blend it with some honey to get a smooth paste. Apply this paste to your hair and scalp and give yourself a nice head massage while you’re at it! Leave it on for an hour and rinse well. Hibiscus is loaded with amino acids and vitamin C that help stimulate hair growth. It also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Apart from these tips, try these simple tricks to keep your hair in its best-ever state:

• Practice sirasana and pranayama to keep your hair healthy
• Cut down on smoking and drinking
• Wear a scarf in the sun to prevent exposure to UV rays
• Limit usage of hair styling products and avoid products that contain sulphates, phthalates and ammonia
• Avoid combing wet hair as it’s in its most vulnerable state when wet
• Braid long hair before hitting the bed to prevent knots and breakage!

Now that you know how to take good care of your hair, go rock that new hairstyle with confidence!