Abstract: Ayurveda is the most ancient science amongst all therapeutic streams. In Ayurveda premature or graying of hair is called as Palitya. It is not a serious disorder but any abnormal change is not good for health. Graying of hair according to age is a common phenomenon but due to drastic changes in today’s life style and environmental pollution lead to untimely (premature) graying of hair. Now a days it has become a burning issue, especially in young generation.  The stress and strain of modern life induces premature aging.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Palitya, Prematuregraying

Palitya is an accompaniment of premature graying and possesses a clinical challenge to the medical practitioners. Although hair graying, or canities, is a common process occurring in people as they age yet an unknown percentage of individuals experience premature graying from familial inheritance or pathologic conditions. The incidence of Palitya is on increase, particularly in tropical and developing countries. Although the rate of Palitya is genetically predetermined yet lifestyle, dietary habits addictions, mental and many other environmental factor may influence the graying process.

Palitya occurs in two ways. Primarily one is normal and second is abnormal phenomenon. According to W.H.O. incidence of premature graying of hair is common in age group of 25-30 years. Premature graying occurs before 20 years in found whites, 25 years in Asians and 30 in Africans. There are a large number of home remedies as well as over the counter products available in market such as dyes, lotions, etc, used in the management of Palitya. However these products often carry adverse reactions such as increased hair fall, Increased graying of  normal hair and sometimes allergic reactions. They pose alarming threat on general health.