Motherhood brings many beautiful changes. But sometimes, it can also invite unexpected challenges. One such common challenge that many new mothers experience is postpartum hair loss.
But before jumping to chemical treatments or harsh hair care products to address this issue, it’s important to know about Brahmi & Bhringraj. These are the two “hair heroes” raved about in Ayurvedic texts for generations. These herbs help to nourish the scalp, balance stress responses, and strengthen hair right from the roots.
In this article, we’ll explore how these timeless herbs can support postpartum hair recovery in a holistic way. So stay tuned!
Understanding The Causes Of Postpartum Hair Loss
Let’s first understand the causes of postpartum hair loss in detail:1 2
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes are the main culprit behind postpartum hair loss. During pregnancy, the level of estrogen hormone remains high. Because of this, the hair remains in the growth phase for a longer period of time. And the hair looks thick. But after birth, the estrogen levels drop suddenly, which sends hair follicles into the resting phase. And the hair starts shedding.
2. Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding affects hair growth cycles indirectly by affecting the hormonal interplay. During breastfeeding, the prolactin level stays high which does not let estrogen and progesterone return back to normal levels. Due to this, the hair follicles stay in shedding state for a long time. And the hair loss starts to look noticeable.
3. Pregnancy-Related Conditions
After childbirth, the body systems, particularly the thyroid and immune balance get temporarily disrupted. Conditions like postpartum thyroiditis can send your thyroid hormones off balance disturbing the hair growth cycle. Additionally, other metabolic and inflammatory changes can also push the scalp hair follicles in the resting phase leading to hair loss.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
During the postpartum period, your body’s nutritional needs skyrocket. This often creates deficiencies of Iron, Zinc, Biotin, Vitamin D, etc which are essential for hair health. As a result, the hair becomes weak and brittle and hair shedding increases.
5. Stress
The emotional stress of caring for a baby, coupled with sleep deprivation and hormonal shifts, causes a rise in cortisol levels. This stress hormone pushes the hair follicles into the resting phase, affecting the hair volume & growth.
The Hair Benefits of Brahmi
Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri is a nutrient-rich herb that can work wonders for your hair health. A few of its many benefits include:3
1. Promotes Hair Growth
Scientific evidence shows that Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) extracts stimulate the hair follicles and boost blood circulation to the scalp. Both these actions ultimately help to push the hair follicles from the telogen(resting) stage to the anagen(growth) stage. One research showed that the hair growth achieved using Brahmi extract in combination with hyaluronic acid was more than that achieved using Minoxidil, a synthetic drug sold commercially for hair growth.4
2. Strengthens Hair Roots
Brahmi contains several bioactives, such as alkaloids and saponins, which deeply nourish the hair follicles. These compounds may also help in supporting the structural integrity of the hair shaft and root, which strengthens existing weak and brittle hair.
3. Improves Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong hair. Brahmi’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe irritation and dryness, ultimately keeping the scalp calm and balanced. At the same time, improved blood circulation supports better nutrient delivery to the scalp. This can help reduce common scalp concerns like dandruff and itchiness.
4. Relieves Stress
According to scientific research, the neuroactive compounds present in Brahmi help to manage stress and anxiety levels, which regulate cortisol. This directly benefits hair growth because high stress is directly related to hair fall and slow hair growth.
Role Of Bhringraj in Supporting Hair Health
Bhringraj, often referred to as the “hair king”, also offers multiple benefits which can help with postpartum hair loss recovery. These include:5 6 7
1. Boosts Blood Circulation To Hair Roots
One of the most important benefits of Bhringraj (Eclipta prostrata) is to boost blood circulation to the scalp. Better circulation means better delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the hair follicles. And well-nourished follicles create a stronger base for the hair to grow healthy. When incorporated as a part of a regular hair care routine, all of this may contribute to improved hair density and less hair fall.
2. Adds Lustre & Softness
Bhringraj helps to nourish the hair shaft and supports moisture retention. This contributes to smoother, softer hair. By improving scalp health and conditioning the cuticle, it enhances your hair’s natural shine. Over time, it can make your hair appear healthier and silkier.
3. Boosts Strength
The antioxidant and nourishing properties of Bhringraj help to strengthen hair from the roots to the tips. By supporting follicle health and reinforcing the hair shaft, it may reduce breakage and hair fall caused by weakness, often common during the postpartum period.
4. Helps Preserve Natural Hair Colour
Multiple Ayurvedic texts often associate Bhringraj with maintaining natural hair pigmentation. The different phytonutrients present in this herb are believed to support melanocyte function. These are the cells responsible for imparting colour to your skin and hair. By protecting hair follicles from oxidative stress, Bhringraj may also help to inhibit premature hair greying and preserve natural hair colour for longer periods.
Complementary Ayurvedic Practices for Hair Health
Here are a few additional hair-healthy practices which Ayurveda recommends:8
1. Oiling
Regular oiling is highly recommended by Ayurveda for maintaining good hair. Massaging warm oil into the scalp helps to improve blood circulation, nourish hair follicles, and maintain moisture in the scalp. It also helps you stay relaxed, which indirectly benefits hair health by reducing stress-related hair fall.
2. Regular Head Bath
The head and hair should not be washed with warm water or with very cold water. That’s because warm water over the head weakens hair and eyesight. Proper hair wash should be done at least thrice a week. Moreover, the hair care products, such as shampoo, used for hair washing must be gentle and free of harsh chemicals.
3. Yoga
Yoga supports hair health by improving circulation, reducing stress, and balancing the hormones. Certain asanas like Navayas lauha and Mandoora bhasma help to enhance blood flow to the scalp.
4. Proper diet
According to Ayurveda (and modern science), healthy hair is a reflection of your internal health. A balanced diet rich in proteins, iron, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals supports hair growth and strength. So you must consider including fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your plate as part of your meals.
Conclusion:
Postpartum hair loss can feel inevitable at times, but it isn’t irreversible. With the right hair care routine and a healthy diet, it can be managed effectively. Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi and Bhringraj play an important role in this process. They provide deep nourishment to the scalp and hair roots while also helping regulate stress, which supports healthier hair growth overall.
So if you’re a new mom battling hair loss, don’t forget to experiment with the afore-mentioned herbal hair heroes!
