Abstract

Dr. Darshana, Vd. Khandekar Ashwini Mangesh*

ABSTRACT

Hair loss, referred to as Khalitya in Ayurveda, represents a complex and multifactorial disorder that has significant implications for physical appearance, psychological well-being, and social confidence. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Khalitya as a manifestation of vitiated Pitta and Vata doshas, which disturb the nourishment of hair roots and lead to premature shedding. The condition is further linked to Asthi Dhatu kshaya (depletion of bone tissue), since hair is considered an Upadhatu (secondary tissue) of Asthi Dhatu. This conceptual framework highlights the deep interconnection between systemic health, dietary practices, and hair physiology. Modern biomedical science, in parallel, identifies hair loss as a condition influenced by nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, psychological stress, and environmental exposures. Micronutrients such as calcium and phosphorus are essential for cellular signaling, keratinocyte adhesion, and follicular integrity. Deficiency of calcium, in particular, has been associated with impaired hair follicle function and thinning of hair shafts, while phosphorus levels generally remain stable unless systemic disease is present. Stress, endocrine dysregulation, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet and excessive use of chemical hair products further exacerbate the condition, creating a multifaceted pathogenesis that resonates with the Ayurvedic emphasis on multiple hetus (causative factors). The present observational study was conducted on 40 participants clinically diagnosed with Khalitya, integrating both Ayurvedic diagnostic principles and modern biochemical assessment. A structured questionnaire was employed to identify classical hetus, while venous blood samples were analyzed for serum calcium and phosphorus levels using standardized laboratory methods. The most frequent hetus identified were Viruddha Ahara (incompatible food combinations, reported in 85% of participants), Lavana Rasa Atisevana (excessive salt intake, 75%), and Kshara Atisevana (excessive alkaline food intake, 62.5%). Biochemical analysis revealed that 55% of participants had serum calcium levels below the normal reference range, whereas phosphorus levels remained within normal limits in all cases. Comparative analysis of these findings demonstrates strong parallels between Ayurvedic constructs and biomedical risk factors. The predominance of dietary hetus corresponds with modern evidence linking poor nutrition and mineral imbalance to hair loss. The observed calcium deficiency supports the Ayurvedic concept of Asthi Dhatu kshaya, reinforcing the relevance of classical theory in contemporary contexts. This integrative model underscores the importance of prevention through nidana parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors), dietary regulation, stress management, and biochemical monitoring. By bridging traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific evidence, the study provides a holistic framework for understanding and managing Khalitya, offering valuable insights for clinicians, researchers, and individuals seeking comprehensive approaches to hair health.