Vitamin A is one of the first things your hair will thank you for. Why? Because it helps the scalp produce sebum, the natural oil that keeps hair moisturized and prevents breakage. Think of sebum as nature’s conditioner without it, your hair can turn dry, frizzy, and lifeless.
You can get Vitamin A from foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and pumpkin. Traditional Indian diets already include a lot of these, but if you’re looking for an extra boost, a small dose of cod liver oil or a multivitamin supplement can work wonders.
A fun tip from Ayurvedic practice: ghee and carrot juice together are considered excellent for hair health. Not only does it nourish the scalp, but it also adds a natural shine to hair strands. Just remember, too much Vitamin A can be harmful, so moderation is key.
If you have ever read a haircare blog or watched a haircare video online, you have probably heard of Biotin. Known as the hair growth vitamin, it plays a major role in producing keratin, the protein that makes up your hair. Without enough Biotin, your hair can become thin, brittle, or even fall out more than usual.
Biotin is found in eggs, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and certain legumes. In India, dishes like moong dal, chana, and soya chunks are excellent sources. For those preferring supplements, a Biotin tablet can be taken daily, but natural sources are always preferred.
A little-known trick: soaking almonds overnight and eating them in the morning is a traditional Indian practice that supports hair growth and also strengthens nails. Biotin-rich foods can have a cascading effect on overall hair health.
Vitamin C is not just for immunity; it’s a key player in healthy hair too. Why? Because it helps your body absorb iron, a mineral essential for hair growth. Low iron can lead to hair fall, thinning, and even premature greying. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals, which can damage hair follicles and cause dullness.
Indian sources of Vitamin C include amla, guava, oranges, bell peppers, and lemon water. Amla, in particular, is a superstar in Indian haircare, packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, it can be consumed in juice form, powdered form, or even used in hair masks.
Daily intake of Vitamin C not only strengthens your hair from within but also adds a natural sheen, making hair look healthier and more vibrant, a true Indian beauty secret.
Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin,” and for good reason. It plays a critical role in stimulating hair follicles and keeping them active. Low levels of Vitamin D are linked to hair thinning and alopecia, which many urban Indians experience due to long hours indoors and less sun exposure.
Good sources of Vitamin D include sunlight, fortified milk, eggs, fatty fish like salmon, and mushrooms. In India, even a small daily dose of morning sun, around 15–20 minutes,, can help maintain healthy Vitamin D levels.
Some hair experts recommend combining Vitamin D with calcium for stronger hair roots. Traditional Indian diets with dairy and eggs, coupled with a little sun, can naturally boost this vitamin, supporting long-term hair growth.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that promotes blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring hair follicles get enough nutrients to grow. It also prevents oxidative stress, which can damage hair and make it prone to split ends and dullness.
Sources of Vitamin E include almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, and avocados. Indian kitchens are full of Vitamin E-rich foods like nuts, green leafy vegetables, and wheat germ, making it easy to incorporate into daily meals.
Topical application works too. Massaging hair with Vitamin E-enriched oils like almond oil or wheat germ oil not only nourishes the scalp but also prevents hair breakage and dryness. This is why Indian women have relied on oil massages for generations, it’s not just a tradition, it’s science-backed hair care.
