There’s no shame in a little shedding, but if your scalp is looking sparse — and your drain is looking like it could use a blowout — it could be a sign that something is off’ internally, which means it’s time to take action. We love this natural and holistic approach from ayurvedic expert and author of Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda, Sahara Rose…

Thinning hair is the worst and something we’ve all dealt with at some point in our lives. I remember deep in my raw-vegan days when my vata imbalance was spiraling out of control (though I didn’t know it yet). I’d see handfuls of hair coming out in the shower and literally be afraid of conditioning my hair because of the amount of hair loss that followed. Luckily, ayurveda has many tips for bringing back our hair flow, so we can look like lustrous goddesses.

Eat warming and grounding foods. Steer clear from excess cold, dry and raw foods, which can cause a vata imbalance. Vata is a cold, dry energy, therefore we must counterbalance it with warm, moist foods. Cook your salad and have a soup on the side. Drink hot water with your green juice. Use room temperature instead of frozen fruits in your smoothie. Warm up your body so your digestion can work more effectively, allowing you to absorb more nutrients.

Take amla, Indian gooseberry. Amla is the most popular ayurvedic treatment for hair loss and is also commonly used as a hair oil. Amla is filled with numerous minerals specific for hair growth. It is extremely rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Amla makes hair stronger, healthier and prevents grays. You can find amla oil at many Indian supermarkets for a hair mask or take it in powder or supplement form from a reputable, organic source.

Massage with brahmi. Brahmi (centella asiatica) is an ayurvedic herb commonly used for intelligence and alertness. However, the oil also stimulates blood circulation in the head. Massage brahmi oil (also called gotu kola) in your scalp and let sit overnight. Wash the next morning for lustrous hair.

Rinse with neem. Neem (margosa leaves) are commonly used in ayurveda to promote hair growth, as well as silky, shiny hair. Combine several drops of neem oil in water and rinse it in your hair. Rinse out with water. Repeat weekly as a wonderful hair treatment.

Snack on sesame seeds and tahini (sesame seed paste). Sesame seeds are a wonderful source of magnesium, calcium and essential fatty acids for hair-growth. I love putting tahini on my vegetables, salad, fruits and everything in between. If you like nut butter, you’ll love tahini.

Avoid caffeine. Caffeine dehydrates the body, creating excess vata, which can lead to hair loss. Instead, start your day with hot water, turmeric and lemon.

Steer clear of spicy, fried and oily foods. These foods might imbalance your pitta (fire) dosha, causing hair loss.

Take sips of warm water throughout the day. Instead of drinking a lot of water at once, sip gradually so you can absorb the H20 and rehydrate your colon.

Drink carrot juice and eat carrots. These veggies are known to promote hair growth.

Don’t stress yourself out. Stress is the number one cause of hair loss. Stay grounded and keep taking care of yourself. You shall overcome this, queen!

Do you know your dosha? Take this quiz to find out your ayurvedic mind-body type.