14 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of White Hair at Home

White hair can be a cause of concern for many individuals, as it is often associated with aging. However, premature white hair can affect people of all age groups. While there are various factors that contribute to the graying of hair, including genetics, stress, and nutritional deficiencies, there are natural remedies available to help restore your hair’s natural color. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 14 tried-and-true natural remedies to combat white hair and regain your youthful appearance.

Understanding White Hair

White hair, scientifically known as canities, occurs when the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, decreases or ceases altogether. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including genetic predisposition, oxidative stress, and hormonal changes.

Contrary to popular belief, plucking out white hair does not lead to the growth of more white hair. The color of our hair is determined by the melanocytes present in the hair follicles, and plucking hair does not impact their function.

The Role of Nutrition in Hair Pigmentation

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair pigmentation. Certain vitamins and minerals provide the necessary building blocks for melanin production. Including these nutrients in your diet can help prevent premature graying and support the restoration of natural hair color. Here are some key nutrients to focus on:

Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. Good sources of vitamin B12 include fish, eggs, dairy products, and fortified cereals.
Copper: Copper is involved in the production of melanin and helps maintain the color of your hair. Foods rich in copper include shellfish, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant protects the cells in your hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. You can find vitamin E in foods like almonds, spinach, sunflower seeds, and avocados.
Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to premature graying. Getting adequate sunlight exposure and consuming foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels.

The Cause of White Hair

You have to remember that your hair will grow, stay in your head, and be pushed out by new hair follicles. A new hair will grow in place, but it will be white if it does not have any pigment. As you age, the pigment that is placed on each strand of the hair is reduced. This is the ultimate reason why hair may be gray, and when there is no pigmentation at all available, it turns white.

There are different reasons why your hair may lose pigmentation at an early age, like the following:

Genetics – This is one huge factor that you cannot ignore, as this can determine when your hair will lose its pigmentation. Please take a look at your ancestors and see when they start having white hair. The earlier they get white hair, the bigger the possibility that you will start having gray or white hair at that age.
Hormones – Your hormones will also play a role in your hair’s pigmentation. If there is an imbalance in the hormones, you will most likely develop white hair.
Bad Diet – If you constantly eat junk food and alcohol, this will take a toll on your body and prematurely cause your hair to turn gray and white.
Lack of Melanin – It should be remembered that you may not have enough melanin in your system, which can be a problem if you do not get enough nutrition. You can combat this by taking some prescribed supplements.
Medical Conditions – There may be times when you are unaware that you have some medical conditions that can help lose your hair’s pigmentation.
The Chemicals in Hair Products – Are you sure about the items that you are using for your hair? Are the ingredients safe enough? The use of hair products and hair dyes may become the cause of premature graying and whitening of your hair.

If your hair is regularly exposed to pollution and ever-changing climates, there is a bigger possibility that your hair will turn white faster.

Top Natural Remedies to Reverse White Hair

1. Blackstrap Molasses: A Sweet Solution for White Hair

Blackstrap molasses is a nutrient-rich byproduct of the sugar refining process. It contains essential minerals like iron, copper, and manganese, which support healthy hair pigmentation. Consuming blackstrap molasses regularly can help restore your hair’s natural color. Here’s how you can incorporate it into your diet:

Mix two tablespoons of blackstrap molasses in a cup of warm water or milk.
Drink this mixture once daily for several months to see visible results.

2. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): The Age-Old Hair Tonic

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for hair health. It is rich in vitamin C, which aids in the production of collagen and promotes melanin synthesis. Here’s how you can use amla to combat white hair:

Prepare a paste by mixing amla powder with lemon juice.
Apply this paste to your scalp and hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and repeat twice a week for best results.

3. Ghee: The Nourishing Conditioner to Combat White Hair

Ghee, or clarified butter, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits. It contains essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish the hair follicles and promote melanin production. Here’s how you can use ghee for your hair:

Warm a small amount of ghee and massage it into your scalp for a few minutes.
Leave it on overnight and wash your hair the next morning.
Repeat this treatment once a week to see noticeable changes in your hair color.

4. Coconut Oil and Lemon: The Dynamic Duo

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties, while lemon juice contains vitamin C and antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress. When combined, these two ingredients can promote hair pigmentation. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

Mix equal parts of coconut oil and fresh lemon juice.
Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair, ensuring full coverage.
Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with a mild shampoo.
Repeat this treatment once or twice a week for optimal results.

5. Herbal Sage Rinse: Turning Back the Clock on White Hair

Sage has natural dyeing properties that can help darken white hair. It also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote scalp health. Here’s how you can make and use a sage hair rinse:

Boil a handful of fresh or dried sage leaves in water for 30 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool and strain out the leaves.
Use the sage-infused water as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.
Repeat this process once or twice a week to gradually darken white hair.

6. Curry Leaves: The Secret Ingredient for Luscious Locks

Curry leaves are a staple in Indian cuisine and are rich in antioxidants. They help restore pigment to your hair and prevent premature graying. Here’s how you can make a curry leaf oil at home:

Heat a small amount of coconut oil in a pan and add a handful of curry leaves.
Let the leaves simmer until they turn black.
Remove from heat, strain the oil, and allow it to cool.
Massage the curry leaf oil into your scalp and hair.
Leave it on for at least an hour before washing your hair.

7. Onion Juice: Stimulating Hair Pigmentation

Onion juice is rich in sulfur, which helps promote the production of collagen and keratin, essential components for healthy hair. It also contains antioxidants that protect the hair follicles from damage. To use onion juice for white hair:

Extract the juice from a medium-sized onion.
Apply the juice directly to your scalp, massaging it in gently.
Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour.
Rinse your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
Repeat this process two to three times a week for several months to see visible results.

8. Henna: Natural Hair Colorant and Conditioner

Henna, a plant-based dye, has been used for centuries to enhance hair color. It not only darkens white hair but also conditions and strengthens it. To use henna for white hair:

Mix henna powder with water to form a smooth paste.
Apply the paste to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down.
Leave the henna on for 2-3 hours, or as instructed on the packaging.
Rinse your hair thoroughly with water, without using shampoo.
Repeat this treatment every 4-6 weeks to maintain the color and condition of your hair.

9. Rosemary and Sage Tea: Enhancing Hair Pigmentation

Both rosemary and sage have been traditionally used to darken and enhance hair color. The compounds present in these herbs can help stimulate hair follicles and promote the production of melanin. Here’s how you can make and use rosemary and sage tea:

Boil a handful each of fresh rosemary and sage leaves in water for 30 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool, then strain out the leaves.
Use the herbal tea as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.
Massage the tea into your scalp and hair, ensuring full coverage.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with water.
Repeat this process once or twice a week for gradual darkening of white hair.

10. Black Tea Rinse: Adding Shine and Depth

Black tea contains tannins that can help darken hair and add shine. It can also enhance the depth and richness of your natural hair color. Here’s how you can prepare and use a black tea rinse:

Brew a strong cup of black tea using two tea bags or two tablespoons of loose tea leaves.
Allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
After shampooing your hair, pour the black tea over your hair, focusing on the roots and lengths.
Massage the tea into your scalp and hair for a few minutes.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with water.
Repeat this process once a week to maintain the desired color and shine.

11. Black Cumin Seeds: Combating Premature Graying

Black cumin seeds, also known as kalonji seeds, are rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. These nutrients help nourish the hair follicles and strengthen the hair shaft, thereby preventing premature graying. To use black cumin seeds for white hair:

Grind black cumin seeds to a fine powder.
Mix the powder with a small amount of water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, massaging it in gently.
Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with water.
Repeat this treatment once or twice a week for noticeable improvements in hair pigmentation.

12. Coffee Rinse: Adding Depth and Warmth

Coffee, specifically brewed coffee, can help darken white hair and add depth and warmth to your natural color. Here’s how you can use coffee as a rinse:

Brew a strong cup of coffee using two tablespoons of coffee grounds.
Allow the coffee to cool to room temperature.
After shampooing your hair, pour the coffee over your hair, ensuring full coverage.
Massage the coffee into your scalp and hair for a few minutes.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with water.
Repeat this process once a week for a gradually darker and richer hair color.

13. Bhringraj Oil: Nourishing and Revitalizing

Bhringraj oil, derived from the leaves of the bhringraj plant, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to promote hair growth and restore natural hair color. It nourishes the hair follicles, improves blood circulation, and stimulates melanin production. To use bhringraj oil for white hair:

Warm a small amount of bhringraj oil in a microwave or by placing the bottle in warm water.
Part your hair into sections and apply the oil to your scalp, massaging it in gently.
Continue massaging for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper absorption.
Leave the oil on for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper conditioning.
Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
Repeat this treatment once or twice a week to nourish and revitalize your hair.

Stress is a significant contributor to premature graying of hair. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps reduce stress and anxiety levels, thereby preventing further graying of hair. It also supports overall hair health and promotes hair pigmentation. You can consume ashwagandha supplements as per the recommended dosage, or consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Remember, natural remedies may vary in effectiveness for different individuals. It’s important to find the remedies that work best for you and be consistent in their application to achieve the desired results. Embrace the power of nature and explore these additional natural remedies to combat white hair!

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent White Hair

Apart from incorporating natural remedies, certain lifestyle changes can help prevent white hair:

1. Managing Stress for Hair Health

Stress is a significant contributor to premature graying. Practicing stress management techniques like meditation, exercise, and deep breathing can help maintain healthy hair pigmentation.

2. Quitting Smoking to Preserve Hair Pigment

Smoking has been linked to premature graying of hair. Quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but also helps preserve your hair’s natural color.

3. Protecting Hair from Harsh Environmental Factors

Excessive exposure to sunlight and pollution can damage hair follicles and lead to premature graying. Wearing hats or scarves and using protective hair products can help shield your hair from harmful environmental factors.

How to Effectively Use Natural Remedies

To achieve the best results with natural remedies, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

Frequency and Duration of Treatments: Consistency is key. Most remedies require a regular application for several weeks or months to see visible changes.
Combining Natural Remedies for Synergistic Effect: Many natural remedies complement each other. Experiment with combining different remedies to enhance their effectiveness.
Patience and Consistency: Key to Seeing Results: Natural remedies take time to show results. Patience and consistent application are essential for achieving the desired outcome.

When to See a Professional?

While natural remedies can be effective for many individuals, it’s important to know when to seek professional advice. If you have underlying health conditions or if your white hair is a result of a medical condition, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist or trichologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

FAQ

Q: What causes hair to turn white naturally?

A: Hair turns white naturally as a result of a decrease in melanin production, which can be influenced by factors such as genetics, age, and certain health conditions. While genetics play a significant role in determining the age at which hair starts to turn white, other factors such as stress, smoking, and poor nutrition can contribute to premature graying.

Q: Can white hair turn black again naturally?

A: While it may not be possible to completely reverse white hair to its original color naturally, certain natural remedies can help restore some pigment and darken the hair. These remedies work by nourishing the hair follicles and promoting melanin production, resulting in gradual darkening of the white hair strands.

Q: How long does it take for these natural remedies to work?

A: The time it takes for natural remedies to show results may vary from person to person. It depends on various factors such as the underlying cause of white hair, individual hair growth cycle, and the consistency of using the remedies. It’s important to be patient and consistent with the chosen natural remedies, as it may take several weeks or months to see noticeable changes in hair color.

Q: Are there any side effects to using natural remedies on hair?

A: Natural remedies are generally safe to use, but it’s important to be aware of any potential allergies or sensitivities. It’s always recommended to perform a patch test before applying any remedy to your entire scalp or hair. Additionally, some natural remedies may have a drying effect on the hair, so it’s important to moisturize and condition your hair regularly to maintain its health and shine.