Ayurvedic Cosmetology Approaches to Premature Hair Greying (Akalapālitya): A Literature Review

The literature review explores Ayurvedic approaches to managing premature hair greying (PHG), known as Akalapālitya, highlighting the limitations of chemical dyes and the potential of natural methods. Ayurveda attributes PHG to a pitta-dosha imbalance, influenced by factors like heredity, poor diet, and stress. The review identifies herbal agents such as Bhringaraja and Yaṣṭimadhu, and polyherbal oils like Nilibhringadi Taila, which have antioxidant and hair melanogenic-stimulating properties. Additionally, Rasāyana formulations and lifestyle practices, including yoga and stress management, are emphasized for their rejuvenative benefits. While Ayurveda offers a holistic and sustainable alternative for PHG management, the review calls for robust multicenter randomized trials to validate clinical efficacy and integrate these methods with modern cosmetology.