Grey hair is often seen as a natural sign of aging, but spotting those silvery strands too early can be frustrating.
Each one of us aspires to have luscious and healthy hair, without having to worry about the premature greying or balding or hairfall. While age is the most common factor, premature greying is becoming increasingly common among young adults, even in their 20s and 30s. The color of our hair is determined by a pigment called melanin, produced by specialized cells known as melanocytes. As melanin production decreases over time, hair loses its color and turns grey or white.
But why does hair turn grey, and what can you do to slow the process? Let’s explore the main causes and some effective home remedies that may help restore your hair’s natural pigment.
Why Does Hair Turn Grey?
- Aging – As we grow older, melanocytes naturally produce less melanin. By the age of 50, most people notice at least some degree of grey hair.
- Genetics – Family history plays a huge role. If your parents or grandparents experienced early greying, you are more likely to face the same.
- Nutritional Deficiency – Lack of essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, copper, and zinc can accelerate greying.
- Stress – Research is still ongoing, but several studies suggest that long-term physical or emotional stress can damage melanocytes and lead to premature greying.
- Hormonal Changes – Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menopause or thyroid imbalances, may contribute to early greying.
- Medical Conditions – Autoimmune diseases, premature aging syndromes, and skin conditions like vitiligo may cause loss of pigmentation in hair.
Natural Home Remedies for Grey Hair
While there’s no magical solution to completely reverse greying, several traditional remedies can nourish your scalp, improve hair health, and in some cases, slow down the process.
1. Coconut Oil & Curry Leaves
Why it works: Curry leaves are loaded with vitamin B complex and antioxidants that help restore melanin production.
How to use:
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Boil a handful of curry leaves in one cup of coconut oil.
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Allow it to cool and strain the mixture.
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Massage this oil into your scalp 2–3 times a week.
This blend strengthens roots, prevents hair fall, and encourages darker hair growth.
2. Onion Juice
Why it works: Onions contain catalase, an enzyme believed to neutralize hydrogen peroxide, which builds up in hair follicles and causes greying.
How to use:
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Extract the juice of one fresh onion.
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Apply it directly to your scalp.
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Leave it on for 30–45 minutes before rinsing with a mild shampoo.
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Repeat 2–3 times a week.
Onion juice also promotes hair growth and improves scalp circulation.
3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Why it works: Amla is rich in vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and nourish hair follicles.
How to use:
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Mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil.
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Warm the mixture slightly and massage it into your scalp.
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Leave overnight and wash off the next morning.
Regular use may help slow down greying and add natural shine to your hair.
4. Black Tea Rinse
Why it works: Black tea contains tannins that darken hair naturally and provide a glossy finish.
How to use:
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Boil 2–3 black tea bags in a cup of water.
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Let it cool and pour the tea onto freshly washed hair.
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Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with plain water (no shampoo).
This works as a temporary natural dye for dull, greying strands.
5. Ridge Gourd & Sesame Oil
Why it works: Ridge gourd is believed to help restore natural hair pigment, while sesame oil is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for premature greying.
How to use:
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Soak chopped ridge gourd in sesame oil for 3–4 days.
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Boil the mixture until the pieces turn black.
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Strain and store the oil in a bottle.
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Massage into your scalp 2–3 times a week.
This oil blend also strengthens weak hair and prevents thinning.
6. Henna & Coffee Pack
Why it works: Henna is a natural dye that coats hair, while coffee deepens its color, giving a rich brown shade.
How to use:
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Mix henna powder with brewed coffee to form a thick paste.
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Allow it to sit for 2–3 hours.
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Apply to your hair and leave for 1–2 hours.
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Rinse with water (avoid shampooing immediately).
This pack not only covers grey strands but also conditions and strengthens hair.
Tips to Prevent Grey Hair
In addition to natural remedies, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference:
- Eat nutrient-rich foods – Include spinach, almonds, eggs, lentils, and dairy products for vitamins B12, iron, copper, and folic acid.
- Reduce stress – Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to keep stress levels under control.
- Avoid chemical products – Minimize the use of harsh shampoos, bleach, and frequent heat styling.
- Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps flush toxins and keeps your scalp healthy.
- Get regular check-ups – Conditions like thyroid imbalance or vitamin deficiencies should be treated early to prevent further greying.
Grey hair is a natural part of aging, but premature greying can sometimes be prevented or slowed with the right care. While genetics play a big role, following a nutrient-rich diet, reducing stress, and using natural remedies like amla, curry leaves, or onion juice can support healthy hair pigmentation.
