Is that dimmed complexion, ashen face, and falling hair becoming a source of worry as you constantly confront your reflection in the mirror? After multiple beauty treatments and spa sessions, you cannot reclaim your previous beautiful looks. But have you pondered over this thought that "Beauty is skin deep" and something going inside you can profoundly impact your looks and your hair, too? Take, for instance, Anemia, which tip-toes into your life with subtle signs and often goes unnoticed unless you get a blood test done! 

Does Anemia have an impact on your appearance and your hair health? Are your hair woes a result of underlying Anemia that went unnoticed? Is there even a connection between Anemia and hair health? If these questions are taking over your mind, this blog is your go-to read to understand the science and solutions behind anaemia and hair loss.

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Understanding anaemia

Anaemia is a medical condition marked by a reduction in red blood cells (RBCs) or a drop in the blood's haemoglobin, often leading to reduced oxygen supply in the body.

There are various causes of anaemia, and most of them are nutritional. It occurs mainly due to:

• Iron deficiency
• Vitamin B9 deficiency
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Genetic or inherited disorders
• Chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, inflammatory disorders, and autoimmune diseases

Types of Anemia and How They Affect Hair Loss

Anaemia comes in various forms, each with its unique effects. Let’s explore some of the most common types:

Iron-Deficiency Anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia impacts over 500 million people worldwide. Iron is vital for producing haemoglobin, which enables oxygen transportation in the body. Although we can obtain iron through our diet, some individuals may need additional iron supplements prescribed by doctors.

Iron deficiency can arise from multiple causes, including a poor diet, heavy bleeding, or pregnancy. This deficiency is closely linked to hair health, as iron is crucial for cellular turnover and delivering oxygen to hair follicles. When iron levels are low, hair shafts may weaken, leading to hair loss.

Vitamin Deficiency Anaemia

Vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to specific types of anaemia. One example is megaloblastic anaemia, primarily caused by a lack of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is essential in red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Insufficient B12 levels result in reduced cell division within hair follicles, which can ultimately lead to anaemia and hair loss.

So, how do you know if you are anaemic?

While the accurate diagnosis of Anemia can be made through blood tests only, it presents with a specific set of symptoms that hint towards it, such as -

• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Dizziness 
• Weakness
• Headache
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Cold hands and feet

What does Ayurveda say about anaemia?

In Ayurveda, anaemia, known as "Pandurog," is a condition in which the aggravated Pitta dosha predominantly affects blood tissue (Rakta Dhatu). 

The aggravated Pitta causes sluggishness and heaviness in the blood tissue, which ends up causing - 

• Roughness and dehydration
• Loss of complexion, strength, and vitality

As a result of these imbalances, the person experiences -

• A drop in blood levels
• Depletion of fatty tissues 
• Loss of vitality of all body tissues
• Palor and discolouration of the body
• Reduced functional status of mind and sense organs

The link between anaemia and hair health

Our hair grows through tiny structures deep in our scalp, known as hair follicles. What soil is to plants, these hair follicles are to hair, and they derive the fuel for hair directly from the blood! 

In conditions like Anemia, due to a lack of Hb in blood, there is a shortage of oxygen supply across the whole body, including the scalp and hair. This makes the follicles barren, resulting in anaemia and hair loss.

Another reason anaemia causes hair growth is a lack of vital nutrients like vitamins and minerals in the blood, essential for maintaining strength and vitality. This deprivation weakens the roots, making them more susceptible to breakage and shedding.

Is Hair Loss from Anemia Permanent?

Hair loss from anaemia is usually not permanent, especially with the proper care and timely treatment. Once iron and essential nutrient levels are restored, hair growth often resumes. Simple, effective hairfall solutions at home, like improving your diet with iron-rich foods, staying hydrated, and taking doctor-recommended supplements, can support recovery. Consistency is vital, and with proper care, many experience a noticeable improvement, making it a natural hairfall cure within reach.

Maintain Healthy Iron Levels for Strong, Lustrous Hair

Healthy iron levels are essential for vibrant, strong hair. Iron supports oxygen flow to hair follicles, promoting growth and preventing brittleness. If you’re experiencing hair loss, focus on iron-rich foods like leafy greens, lean meats, and fortified grains. For a complete routine, pair a balanced diet with the best oil for dandruff and hairfall to soothe the scalp and nourish strands. With the right nutrients and hair care, you can enhance hair strength and shine naturally.

Ayurvedic tips for maintaining healthy hair with anaemia

Herbal tips:

• Consume fresh Amla fruits and juice at least once a day daily.
• Chew on a teaspoon of fennel seeds coated with a bit of honey. 
• Steep a few strands of saffron in warm water before bed.
• Mix a teaspoon of moringa leaf powder in water or juice and consume it daily. 
• Steep Triphala powder in warm water and drink the infusion on an empty stomach. 
• Soak fenugreek seeds overnight in water. Drink the infused water in the morning.
• To boost iron levels, consume a small piece of jaggery with a teaspoon of black sesame seeds daily.
• Boil a teaspoon each of cumin and coriander seeds in water. Strain and drink this water once daily.

Dietary tips:

• Eat 2-3 dates and figs daily. 
• Limit the intake of tea and coffee.
• Consume beetroot salad with a squeeze of lemon.
• Drink fresh pomegranate juice regularly to boost iron levels.
• Drink copper-infused water on an empty stomach in the morning.
• Include iron-rich spices like fenugreek, cumin, and coriander in your cooking. 

Lifestyle tips:

• Practice mindful eating.
• Use the best oil for dandruff and hairfall, like Amla oil for head massage. 
• Cook your meals with iron utensils. 
• Ensure you get sufficient sleep and rest.
• Spend some time in the early morning sun. 
• Regularly massage your body with warm sesame oil. 
• Practices Pranayama like Kapalbhati and Anulom Vilom.

The journey to healthier hair involves more than external treatments; it includes nurturing your body from the inside. Addressing anaemia and hair loss with these holistic remedies provides effective hairfall solutions at home that can improve your health and confidence. 

At MeVana, we understand that every individual’s hair and skin concerns are unique. With a thorough analysis of 84 lifestyle and health factors through our quiz, we create custom Ayurvedic blends that target specific dosha imbalances affecting your hair health. 

MeVana’s personalised care, including a Dinacharya card and customised hair care regimen, combines ancient science with modern innovation to restore your hair and skin to their natural Origin State. By trying these simple tips and MeVana’s targeted hairfall cure solutions, you can achieve the best, most personalised care for optimal hair health.