Palitya w.s.r to Premature Graying of Hair -An Ayurvedic Overview
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Palitya w.s.r to Premature Graying of Hair -An Ayurvedic Overview
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Manish Pamnani
Ph.D.Scholar, Dept. of Dravyaguna, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
A. Rama Murthy
Professor, Dept. of Dravyaguna, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Sarvesh Kumar Agarwal
Associate Professor, Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Palitya w.s.r to Premature Graying of Hair -An Ayurvedic Overview
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v9iSuppl2.1081
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Premature graying of hair, known as "Palitya" in Ayurvedic terms, is classified under "Shiroroga" and pertains to the imbalance of Doshas in the body. This condition is defined as the graying of hair before the age of 35, largely attributed to a gradual decrease in melanin production in hair follicles, a pigment responsible for hair color. Factors contributing to premature graying include a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, psychological stress, and environmental pollution, creating an escalating interest in Ayurveda for preventive and curative solutions.
Etiological Factors
In Ayurveda, the etiology of Palitya is multifaceted, stemming from both physical and mental origins. Physical factors include suppression of natural urges, excessive sunlight exposure, and improper sleep habits, while mental factors encompass overwork and emotional disturbances. These influences provoke an imbalance in the body's Doshas, particularly Pitta, leading to conditions such as premature greying. In modern contexts, causes include environmental pollution, poor dietary choices, genetic predispositions, and hormonal imbalances. Understanding these factors offers insights into managing hair health effectively.
Ayurvedic Management Strategies
Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach to manage Palitya, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet rich in iron, proteins, and vitamins. Hair care practices derived from ancient texts, such as regular head massages and the application of medicated oils (Moordha Taila), play a crucial role in maintaining hair health. Various Ayurvedic herbs, including Yastimadhu, Amalaki, and Bhringraja, are utilized in different formulations to combat premature graying. The treatment philosophy focuses on rectifying imbalances in the body to restore the natural pigment of hair, thus promoting overall wellbeing.
Conclusion
Premature graying of hair, or Palitya, highlights the connection between lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and emotional health as they impact hair color and quality. Ayurvedic principles stress the significance of maintaining balance among the body's Doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta to address this condition. Implementing Ayurvedic dietary and hair care practices can foster healthy hair growth and mitigate the effects of premature graying, showcasing the relevance of traditional wisdom in contemporary health management.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does Ayurveda say about premature graying of hair?
In Ayurveda, premature graying of hair is termed 'Palitya' and is caused by an imbalance of Doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta. Various lifestyle factors, diet, and psychological disturbances contribute to this condition, leading to the reduction of melanin in hair.
What are the main causes of Palitya according to Ayurveda?
The main causes of Palitya include physical factors like suppression of natural urges, overexposure to sunlight, and unhealthy diets. Mental factors such as stress, grief, and excessive fatigue also lead to Dosha imbalances that result in premature graying.
How can one manage or prevent premature graying of hair?
Management of premature graying involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron, proteins, and vitamins, regular scalp hygiene, and head massages with Ayurvedic oils. Practices like Nasya and using specific Keshya compounds are also recommended for better hair health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Palitya w.s.r to Premature Graying of Hair -An Ayurvedic Overview�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Hair:
Hair is an important aspect of beauty and denotes a person’s immunity and hormonal levels. Healthy hair is maintained through proper nutrition, hygiene, and care regimens like oiling, combing, and using medicated oils. Gray hair or premature graying can indicate problems in overall health and lifestyle.
2) Palitya:
Palitya refers to premature graying of hair in Ayurveda. It is classified under Shiroroga and results from Dosha imbalances, particularly Vata-Pitta. It indicates a significant decline in melanin production and is caused by various factors like lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and environmental considerations.
3) Disease:
In Ayurveda, diseases like Palitya represent the imbalance of Doshas and improper metabolism. Disease management emphasizes restoring Dosha balance through dietary, lifestyle changes, and therapeutic approaches like Basti and Nasya to treat the root cause effectively.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the balance of bodily Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) for health. It provides comprehensive guidelines for treatment through diet, lifestyle, therapeutic procedures, and natural medicines derived from herbs and minerals.
5) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each Dosha governs different physiological functions and imbalances in these can lead to various health issues including Palitya. Treatment involves restoring their balance through various Ayurvedic practices.
6) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda, responsible for sustaining the body. They include Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. Blows to the Asthi-dhatu, for example, can result in symptoms like premature graying of hair.
7) Food:
[see source text or glossary: Food]
8) Diet:
A balanced diet rich in iron, proteins, vitamins, and minerals is crucial for preventing Palitya. Ayurveda recommends a diet that nourishes the Dhatus, maintains Dosha balance, and supports overall hair health to prevent premature graying.
9) Kshudraroga (Kshudra-roga, Ksudraroga):
Kshudrarogas are minor ailments in Ayurveda. Palitya, or premature graying of hair, is categorized under Kshudrarogas, according to classical texts. Although considered minor, they signify underlying imbalances needing attention.
10) Asthidhatu (Asthi-dhatu):
Asthi-dhatu relates to the bone tissue in Ayurvedic physiology. Imbalances or deficiencies in this tissue can result in hair-related issues like Palitya. Treatments often include therapies and herbs aimed at nourishing the Asthi-dhatu.
11) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi, or bone, is a Dhatu in Ayurveda. Healthy Asthi-dhatu supports hair health. Imbalance or malnutrition affecting Asthi can lead to conditions like premature graying of hair, making its care vital for preventing Palitya.
12) Roga:
Roga means disease in Ayurveda. Roga arises from Dosha imbalances and improper metabolism. Complications like premature graying, or Palitya, are considered Shiroroga and require holistic treatment approaches encompassing diet, lifestyle, and therapies.
13) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is the first of the seven Dhatus in Ayurveda, associated with the body's fluids. Impairment in Rasa-Dhatu can affect hair health, leading to conditions like Palitya. Ayurvedic treatments, therefore, focus on nourishing the Rasa-Dhatu through a balanced diet and proper hydration.
14) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]
15) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pittadosha, one of the three Doshas, governs metabolism and transformation in the body. Imbalance in Pitta can result in Palitya due to its effects on body heat and pigmentation. Corrective measures involve Pitta-pacifying diets, herbs, and therapies.
16) Samprapti:
Samprapti is the Ayurvedic concept of disease pathogenesis. It explains how Dosha imbalances manifest into diseases like Palitya. Understanding Samprapti helps in devising effective treatment plans to restore balance and cure the ailment.
17) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: Knowledge]
18) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the etiological factors or causes of a disease in Ayurveda. For Palitya, Nidanas include lifestyle factors like excessive salt intake, stress, and environmental exposure that provoke Doshas leading to premature graying.
19) Pitta:
Pitta, one of the three Doshas, is associated with heat and metabolism. An excess of Pitta can cause Palitya by affecting the pigmentation process in hair. Managing Pitta through cool, balanced diets and Ayurvedic therapies is essential for hair health.
20) Kesa (Kesha):
Kesha stands for hair in Ayurveda. Maintaining healthy Kesha requires a balanced diet, proper hygiene, and specific hair care routines. Conditions like Palitya signify deeper imbalances in bodily Doshas impacting hair pigmentation.
21) Agni:
Agni, or digestive fire, is a crucial concept in Ayurveda. Proper Agni ensures nutrient assimilation and metabolic processes. Weak Agni affects bodily tissues including hair, contributing to issues like Palitya. Strengthening Agni through diet and habits is vital for hair health.
22) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and communication. Imbalance in Vata influences the aging process, including premature graying of hair or Palitya. Vata balancing involves grounding activities, warm diets, and proper hydration.
23) Bhrajakapitta (Bhrajaka-pitta):
Bhrajakapitta is a subtype of Pitta Dosha responsible for skin and hair pigmentation. Imbalance in BhrajakaPitta can lead to Palitya. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance this Pitta through herbs, oils, and diet.
24) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata-Pitta represents the dual influence of these Doshas. For Palitya, both Doshas� imbalance plays a role, causing premature graying. Restoration involves pacifying diets and lifestyle changes focusing on both Vata and Pitta.
25) Science (Scientific):
[see source text or glossary: Scientific]
26) Langhana (Lamghana):
Langhana is an Ayurvedic therapeutic approach focusing on lightening therapies like fasting and detoxification. It helps balance Doshas, particularly in conditions like Palitya, by eliminating excesses and revitalizing the system.
27) Samhita:
Samhitas are classical Ayurvedic texts. They provide detailed insights into various conditions, including Palitya, offering historical context, treatment protocols, and theoretical frameworks necessary for holistic healing.
28) Mineral:
[see source text or glossary: Mineral]
29) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Proper hygiene, particularly of the scalp and hair, is essential in Ayurveda for preventing conditions like Palitya. Regular cleaning, oiling, and using appropriate hair care products help maintain scalp health and prevent premature graying.
30) Dravya:
[see source text or glossary: Dravya]
31) Sevana:
[see source text or glossary: Sevana]
32) Sthana:
[see source text or glossary: Sthana]
33) Keshya (Kesya):
Keshya refers to herbs beneficial for hair in Ayurveda. These herbs, like Bhringraja and Amalaki, are used in formulations to promote hair health, prevent and treat conditions like Palitya, and balance underlying Dosha imbalances.
34) Temple:
In the context of Palitya, the temple or 'Shankha' region of the head is often the first to show signs of graying. This gradual process then spreads to other parts of the scalp, indicating Dosha enhancement needing remedy.
35) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is an Ayurvedic therapeutic practice involving the administration of medicated oils through the nose. It is used to treat various head and neck conditions, including Palitya, by balancing Doshas and promoting scalp health.
36) Basti:
Basti is an Ayurvedic enema therapy used to detoxify and nourish the body. It is particularly useful for conditions stemming from Dosha imbalances like Palitya, especially when addressing Vata and Pitta disorders.
37) Kumar:
[see source text or glossary: Kumar]
38) Grief:
Grief is a significant mental factor influencing Dosha imbalances, particularly Pitta. It contributes to Palitya by elevating body heat and stress levels. Ayurvedic treatments aim to manage grief through calming therapies and lifestyle modifications.
39) Anger (Angry):
Anger is another mental factor exacerbating Dosha imbalances, particularly Pitta and Vata. It elevates body heat and contributes to Palitya. Ayurvedic practices focus on emotional well-being to prevent hair-related issues caused by excessive anger.
40) Rama:
[see source text or glossary: Rama]
41) Kala:
Kala Palitya refers to graying due to natural aging. It signifies mature hair changes often considered normal, unlike premature graying. Ayurveda addresses both Kala and Akala Palitya with specific treatments and preventive measures.
42) Salt (Salty):
Excessive salt intake is one of the etiological factors leading to Palitya. It can aggravate Pitta Dosha, accelerating hair graying. Ayurvedic dietary recommendations emphasize reducing salt to maintain Pitta balance and promote hair health.
43) Mental health:
Mental health directly impacts Dosha balance, influencing conditions like Palitya. Stress, grief, and anger can lead to Dosha imbalances, causing premature graying. Ayurveda advocates balanced mental state through practices like Yoga and meditation.
44) Nidanasthana (Nidana-sthana):
[see source text or glossary: Nidanasthana]
45) Niruhavasti (Niruha-vasti):
Niruha-vasti is a specific type of Basti treatment in Ayurveda, involving herbal decoctions. It helps detoxify and balance Doshas, especially beneficial for conditions like Palitya caused by deep-seated imbalances.
46) Tiktadravya (Tikta-dravya):
[see source text or glossary: Tikta-dravya]
47) Madhavakara:
Madhavakara was an eminent Ayurvedic scholar who classified Palitya under Kshudraroga. His work ‘MadhavaNidanam� provides detailed descriptions and treatment protocols for various health conditions, including premature graying.
48) Bastikarman (Bastikarma, Basti-karman, Basti-karma):
Basti Karma involves the administration of enemas for detoxification and nourishment. It is effective in treating Palitya by clearing accumulated Doshas, particularly those affecting hair health and promoting systemic balance.
49) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu, the essence of nourishment, is crucial in Ayurveda. Impairment in Rasa affects systemic health, including hair. Proper diet and hydration strategies are vital in treating Palitya as it is linked with Rasa imbalance.
50) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
[see source text or glossary: Dravyaguna]
51) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, or licorice, is an Ayurvedic herb used for hair health. It is classified as Keshya and Palityanashaka, helping in treating and preventing premature graying. It nourishes hair, promoting natural color and strength.
52) Agnidushti (Agnidusti, Agni-dushti):
[see source text or glossary: Agni-dusti]
53) Discussion:
Discussion sections provide comprehensive analysis, comparing Ayurvedic and modern perspectives on issues like Palitya. Integrating traditional knowledge with scientific insights helps develop holistic treatment strategies for effective management.
54) Vibhitaki:
Vibhitaki, a medicinal herb in Ayurveda, is beneficial for hair problems like Palitya. It is included in formulations to improve hair health by balancing Doshas and restoring natural hair color.
55) Rasagni (Rasa-agni):
[see source text or glossary: Rasa-agni]
56) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga encompasses head-related diseases in Ayurveda. Palitya is categorized under Shiroroga due to its manifestation in the scalp area. Treatments focus on balancing Doshas and promoting overall scalp health.
57) Rajasthan:
[see source text or glossary: Rajasthan]
58) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to Ayurvedic lexicons containing lists and properties of medicinal herbs. They provide essential references for treatments, including those for Palitya, describing herbs like Amalaki and Bhringraja for maintaining hair health.
59) Gambhari:
Gambhari is a medicinal herb in Ayurveda known to promote hair health. It is used in treatments for conditions like Palitya by restoring Dosha balance and providing necessary nourishment to the hair and scalp.
60) Bhrajaka:
[see source text or glossary: Bhrajaka]
61) Amasaya (Amashaya, Ama-ashaya):
[see source text or glossary: Amashaya]
62) Khalitya:
Khalitya, or baldness, is related to hair conditions like Palitya in Ayurveda. Both conditions stem from similar Dosha imbalances and require integrated treatments focusing on restoring scalp health and nourishing the hair roots.
63) Ushnisha (Usnisa):
[see source text or glossary: Ushnisha]
64) Nirgundi (Nirgumdi):
Nirgundi is an Ayurvedic herb beneficial for hair issues. It is used in formulations for treating Palitya, providing properties that reduce inflammation, balance Doshas, and promote healthy hair growth.
65) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Indian gooseberry, is highly valued in Ayurveda for its benefits to hair. It is used to treat Palitya due to its rich antioxidant content, which helps maintain hair pigmentation and overall health.
66) Vyayama:
Vyayama, meaning exercise, is a recommended practice in Ayurveda for overall well-being. Regular physical activity helps balance Doshas, improve circulation, and support hair health, reducing risks of Palitya.
67) Kaphaja:
Kaphaja refers to health conditions originating from an imbalance of Kapha Dosha. In the context of Palitya, managing Kapha is crucial to maintaining hair health and preventing excessive graying.
68) Prasuti:
[see source text or glossary: Prasuti]
69) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
Pittaja refers to conditions resulting from an imbalance in Pitta Dosha. For Palitya, managing Pittaja aspects through specific diets and cooling therapies is critical in preventing premature graying.
70) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
[see source text or glossary: Shankha]
71) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or ghee, is extensively used in Ayurveda for its nourishing properties. It is often included in treatments for Palitya, helping to balance Doshas and improve hair and scalp health.
72) Dushya (Dusya):
[see source text or glossary: Dushya]
73) Vyakti:
[see source text or glossary: Vyakti]
74) Vamana:
Vamana is an Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy involving therapeutic emesis to cleanse and balance Doshas. It is helpful in conditions like Palitya, where eliminating toxins and balancing Doshas restores hair health.
75) Srotas (Shrotas):
[see source text or glossary: Srotas]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 101]
Other Science Concepts:
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