Answered by DR. HARISH VERMA

Q: I have read in your magazine that Brahmi is good for autism. My question is what form of Brahmi would be the best – powder or oil? My son who is 11 years old will not swallow anything in pill form. Also, how much should I give him on a daily basis?

Tammy Napoli

A: You can give Brahmi in the form of powder, one teaspoon with water or milk at bedtime. Or you can give him one capsule of Brahmi with water, twice daily. Brahmi improves learning skills, thinking process, and improves concentration. Brahmi is highly used in children, in cases of restlessness and hyperactivity. It can help improve confidence, intelligence and memory-recalling capabilities. It also helps in bringing an autistic individual lucidity and peace of mind.

Q: I am a 30-year-old female and my problem is hair loss. My hair is curly, short and dry. I also have dandruff. I use egg whites on my hair twice a week. Could the hair loss be due to that? Also, can I use henna? Please recommend some remedies.

Reva

A: Severe hair loss is associated with aging, heredity, testosterone, excessive shampooing, styling products and/or blow-drying. Fevers, hormonal changes, thyroid problems, childbirth, or use of birth control capsules may also cause hair loss. In your case, I cannot identify the causative factor, but I can suggest a few preparations to control excessive hair fall.

1. Amla oil prepared by boiling dry pieces of Amla in coconut oil is a valuable hair tonic. Massage Amla oil on the scalp everyday.

2. Make a hair cleanser by mixing and boiling 100 grams each of Amla (Indian gooseberry), Reetha and Shikakai in two liters of water. Reduce it to one fourth the amount and filter it. Use this as a scalp cleanser for your hair for one month. This will prevent hair loss.

3. Take one capsule each of Amla and Shatawari twice a day.

4. Eat a protein-rich diet like almonds, cheese and milk. Avoid applying eggs. You can apply henna once a week.