How to Stop Graying Hair

Few people like to look in the mirror and see gray hair, regardless of age. Gray hair results from loss of pigmentation called melanin. In some cultures, gray hair is not as prevalent as in others, and Asians often live to old age without a single gray hair, while Caucasians often see gray hairs sprouting in their forties or fifties. Natural remedies have been used for generations to slow or reverse the growth of gray hair. Some people make changes in their diet, eating foods rich in minerals that enhance hair growth and health.

Step 1

Eat foods rich in iodine. Iodine, a mineral produced by the thyroid gland, is partially responsible for cell growth and hormone production. Common foods that contain iodine include carrots, bananas, tuna, haddock, salmon, sea bass, and shellfish like shrimp, lobsters and clams, states OrganicFacts.net. Iodine is especially important for healthy nail and hair growth, replenishing hormones that create melanin, the component that gives hair a dark color.

Step 2

Eat foods rich in minerals like copper and iron. Copper can be found in foods like nuts and seeds, egg yolks and whole grains. Iron is found in wheat products, sunflower seeds and dried apricots. Vitamins A and B are also important for healthy hair growth. Try veggies with rich color such as yellow, green and red peppers, as well as any type of dark green leafy vegetable.

Step 3

Take supplements that contain iron, zinc and copper, as well as vitamins A, B and E. Take supplements as directed one to three times a day to maintain chemical balances and promote adequate nutrition and hormone levels, which in turn will promote the production of melanin.

Step 4

Avoid foods high in fat. Fat provides little nutritive value for the body, and its consumption can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Step 5

Use a mixture of Indian gooseberry juice, a natural remedy for graying hair. Also known as Amla, the product can be found in natural or health food stores. Mix equal amounts (2 tbsp. each) of Indian gooseberry and coconut oil, and massage into the scalp. Leave it for about five minutes and then rinse. Do this several times a week.

Step 6

Massage the scalp with a mixture of lemon juice and coconut oil on a daily basis. Mix the juice of one lemon with about a tablespoon of coconut oil.

Things You'll Need

  • Vitamin and mineral supplements
  • Indian gooseberry
  • Coconut oil
  • Lemon juice

References

Article reviewed by Roman Tsivkin Last updated on: Jan 8, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments