12 Herbs for Hair Loss
Here is a detailed list of the best herbs for hair loss.
Although the market is filled with numerous hair loss remedies ranging from vitamins, drugs to special tonics, not all of them are found to be effective. Herbal remedies for hair loss are better in that they are safe for use and do not lead to any adverse side effects. They also correct nutritional deficiencies associated with thinning hair.
Hair transplant and drug therapy are considered to be the conventional treatments for hair loss or hair thinning.
Propecia (Finasteride) and Minoxidil are the only FDA approved drugs for hair loss. Though these drugs are proven to be very effective for hair loss, many people refrain from using them owing to their potential side-effects. This has led to the increased demand for alternative remedies for hair loss such as herbal remedies.
Herbs for Hair Loss
The following are some of the best herbs that can stimulate new hair growth and mitigate the extent of hair loss.
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a plant that is known for its useful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The gel extracted from this plan can be used to treat skin rashes and other issues related to sensitive skin.
The gel can also be massaged on the scalp to restore the PH balance and condition the hair properly.
Its capacity to trigger the formation of nitric oxide and the presence of an enzyme called superoxide dismutane in aloe vera makes it an ideal remedy for male pattern baldness.
Aloe Vera acts as an excellent remedy for other types of alopecia also.
2. Algae Extract
Sea vegetables or weeds are rich in minerals, vitamins and amino acids and have excellent curative powers. A vast majority of seaweed species are used by humans as health supplements, fertilizers and skin care lotions and creams. Seaweeds such as Himanthalia Elongata and Atlantic Kelp can be used to stop hair loss and foster hair growth.
They can add lustre and shine to the hair by healing or reducing damages to the scalp and hair.
3. Ginkgo Biloba
Another powerful herb, Ginkgo Biloba is used for treating several issues such as skin problems and hair loss.
It mainly cures these health problems by improving blood circulation to the skin and brain.
A majority of herbal medicine experts who recommend this herb believe that the increase in blood supply to the skin and brain can nourish the hair follicles which in turn can lead to the re-growth of hair.
4. Channelled Wrack
Phaeophyta is a sea weed from which channelled wrack is extracted. This herb contains powerful anti-oxidants and isoflavones which can be very helpful in renewing and refreshing the skin of the scalp.
Channelled Wrack is especially helpful in curing hair loss among women. It improves hair thickness and hair growth.
5. Green Tea
Green tea has been used from time immemorial to reduce hair loss. By consuming green tea in capsule form or drinking at least 4-5 cups of green tea a day, you can reduce your risk of male pattern type baldness.
The catechins present in green tea play an important role in arresting hair fall and improving hair texture.
6. Dong Quai
Dong Quai is an ancient Chinese herb that is used to foster hair growth or stop hair loss. It is also known as Angelica. The phytoestrogens present in this herb helps in reducing the formation of DHT.
7. He Shou Wu or Fo-Ti
Another powerful Chinese herb, He Shou Wu has also been used for centuries to control baldness and hair loss.
It is one of the main ingredients found in many hair loss treatments and can be purchased in both capsule and tea form. This herb not only encourages the growth of terminal hair but also acts as a hair restorative according to a study published by American Botanical Council.
8. Pygeum
Pygeum can be consumed in a capsule or pill form. It is extracted from the tree’s bark and works just like green tea. This herb has been used as an ingredient in many hair care products such as hair restorative shampoos and oils.
9. Horsetail
Although this herb was used for a very long time to treat problems pertaining to the urinary system, its high silica content makes it an ideal hair loss remedy. Horsetail is increasingly being used in many hair care products of late to repair hair and stimulate hair growth.
This herb is also an important ingredient in many herbal products that are aimed at fighting pattern baldness.
10. Stinging Nettle
By preventing the conversion of testosterone into DHT, this herb prevents hair loss among men. This herb imparts several benefits when used along with pygeum or palmetto. You can purchase this herb in either capsule or pill form.
11. Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto finds use in several hair loss products and remedies. This herb can be used to reduce hair fall and foster hair growth. This herb is also immensely useful in treating prostrate related problems. Saw Palmetto capsules should be avoided by nursing or pregnant women.
12. Panax Ginseng
This powerful herb has been used in Asia for a number of years. This herb not only regulates cell metabolism but also promotes blood circulation. Ginseng can strengthen and nourish hair when used as a tonic or shampoo.
The hair loss drugs or herbal remedies will have any one or more of the aforesaid herbs as its main ingredients. While some of these herbs may be very effective for some, it may not yield the desired results for others.
Natural Balding Solutions For Males
The natural or herbal hair loss products can come in various forms namely tablets, tonic, pills etc. The herbal formulations or solutions are created as a safe and feasible and option for people of both genders to combat the problem of alopecia.
The effects and function of herbs vary widely from one another.
Hence before considering the best remedy for you, you should read the label fully in order to understand whether it is best for you. By checking out the product’s ingredients you can know more about the credible hair loss products.
The best advantage that comes with the use of herbal products is their lack of side effects.
Other Herbal Remedies for hair loss
Hair can also be restored using natural oils such as lavender, Castor and coconut oil easily. These oils prevent hair from becoming brittle and dry by providing it with all the vital nutrients it needs.
These oils can help repair hair and bring back the lost luster or shine occurring from the harsh treatment of hair such as use of flat irons, dues and chemicals. Massaging any of the oils mentioned above regularly can prevent hair loss by encouraging blood circulation to the scalp.
Jimsonweed or Thorn Apple can also nourish hair and foster hair growth. Those who suffer from acute hair loss can consume the juice of this fruit to get relief from their hair loss problem. This herb is also used to treat various other health problems namely cough, tuberculosis and digestive disorders.
Applying red pepper directly to the scalp can also improve its condition and rejuvenate hair growth. Red pepper works by stimulating the cells of the scalp and supplying it with the vital nutrients. This in turn can lead to hair growth in people of both the genders.
Some people vouch by the effectiveness of Nettle plant’s root extract in combating hair loss. This extract is available in capsule as well as pill form. This herb contains useful minerals and lipids that can encourage the regrowth of hair by stimulating the hair follicles. This herb can be used exclusively or in combination with herbs such as Saw Palmetto to get the desired results.
