Herbal Treatments For Hair Loss
Alternative medicine may be a viable option for those who are not keen on
using chemically enhanced medicines and conventional scientific methods, or
those who have used them and found them wanting.
Herbal treatments aim to target the main causes of hair loss instead
of just dealing with the symptoms. Many commonly known herbal and medicinal
plants are used today to aid in preventing hair loss, and most of them are
available commercially.
Natural Herbs that Help with Hair Loss
Gingko Biloba - This is a popular herb that improves blood
circulation and hair re-growth is achieved when there is an increase in the
blood flow in the brain and on the skin. Nutrients are able to reach
follicles, thereby encouraging strong hair to grow.
Saw Palmetto (berry extract) – This is the choice of men
nowadays, for its ability to inhibit DHT (dihydrotestosterone) formation, as
well as due to the other benefits and preventive measures it does for a
number of health conditions. The most common use of this herb is to protect
the prostrate. It also helps the
remaining hair follicles in the scalp to grow healthy hair.
Stinging Nettle - This herb is best taken in combination
with saw palmetto. It is known to aid in preventing hair loss because of its
capacity to hinder testosterone from being converted into DHT, which is a
main cause for pattern baldness and continued hair loss.
Green Tea - Some researchers have found the cathechins
found in green tea are actually capable of inhibiting enzymes from
converting testosterone hormone into DHT, therefore aiding in male pattern
type baldness. It is recommended that
a person has to take 2 to 3 cups a day for hair loss prevention.
Henna - A herb that has been used to dye hair but has been
discovered to potentially be of vital importance in preventing hair loss.
The herb is crushed to form a paste and applied directly into the scalp,
creating a natural conditioning agent which also increases blood flow
circulation.
Coconut Oil - Among its many uses, this oil is beneficial
to hair as a natural conditioner. It keeps the hair healthy and lubricated
to prevent drying of the follicles and being clogged by dirt.
Aloe Vera - A medicinal plant used for centuries which
makes hair thick and healthy. It has been found to contain an enzyme called
superoxide dismutane that stimulates hair growth. The plant extract, a gel-
like liquid, is applied directly to the scalp and hair every night.
Red Pepper - Research has proven that red pepper can cause
irritation when applied to the scalp due to the trigger of histamine but
when this is released, the blood is attracted to the area, and increases the
flow of nutrients that portion of the scalp.
A wide variety of herbs and natural treatments are available today.
Another treatment used today is
aromatherapy, using a mixture of essential oils for the scalp. But it is
ideal to have proper nutrition for all these to work effectively.
Alternative treatments are effectual if used in the early stages of hair
loss, as a precursor to scientific methods such as lasers and transplants,
as they typically have less drastic or adverse effects on the body.
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