Well-being Q&A: Herbal remedies for hair loss

I'm 27 and have been suffering from severe hair loss for the past decade, and now have very sparse growth on my crown. Initially, I found that my scalp was extremely oily and was plagued with dandruff. My hormone profile doesn't indicate a problem. I tried homeopathy but it didn't help. Nobody in my family has any hair problems. Could you suggest a remedy?
B.A via email

There could be various reasons for acute hair loss such as an illness, high stress, thyroid imbalance, certain drugs, sudden weight loss and high fever. I have come across several cases of hair loss resembling androgenic alopecia (frontal hair loss) where the patients have healthy hormone levels and have found Shatavari* and bitter vegetables such as bitter gourd to be effective in treating it. An oily scalp and dandruff may be aggravating your hair loss. Follow a high-protein and iron-rich diet. Include a lot of raw vegetables, fresh fruits, salads, and green leafy vegetables in your diet on a regular basis. Consult an Ayurveda doctor in person.

Meanwhile, one tip I can suggest is that you massage your scalp with Kanjunnyadi keram* for about ten minutes before bathing.

I have a fair complexion but my underarm area is a little dark. Is there an Ayurvedic remedy to lighten the area?
L.R., via email

Dark underarms could be caused by regular use of deodorants and anti-perspirants. So keep your underarm region deodorant-free when you are at home. Apply such products only when necessary. Scrub your underarm area well with a paste of Eladi choornam* while bathing. You could also apply a paste of mint leaves and lemon juice on your underarms; leave it on for ten minutes before you wash it off. Almond paste mixed with honey or milk is a good alternative.  Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics, particularly garments that come in contact with the affected area. Another tip; wax your underarms instead of shaving.

*Available at shops selling herbal products