Herbs For Hair Loss

Herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat hair loss and help regrow hair. Taken internally or applied to the scalp, herbs are a gentle and natural solution to prevent hair loss and stimulate hair growth.

Different countries use different herbs to treat hair loss so we included as many sources as possible in order to make this list as comprehensive as possible. That includes Chinese herbs and Indian medicine called Ayurveda.

Aloe vera juice

Aloe Vera is used for conditioning, promoting hair growth, prevent hair loss, combat sebum build up and much more. The extract of aloe vera, a gel from the plant, is applied directly on the scalp and left on for at least 2 hours before rinsing. According to many sources this will not only stop hair loss but also promotes hair growth.

Amla

The fruit of Amla is packed with vitamin C and rich in antioxidants. Besides applying to the scalp, it is also helpful to consume it on a regular basis because the vitamin C is good for your body. The powdered Amla available at an herbal store may be mixed with the juice of a lime to apply to the scalp. Leave it to dry and then rinse using warm water.

Angelica

Angelica is used to stop hair loss. The active ingredient is an herbal form of a testosterone stimulant called phytotestosterone, which is said to balance the hormones. In Chinese medicine they call this herb Dong Quai.

Arborvita

The Chinese herb arborvita is used to stimulate follicles and improve blood flow to the scalp which reduces hair loss and stimulates hair growth.

Bhringaraj

Bhringaraj is used for the remedy of hair loss and premature graying. It is said to result in healthy hair, healthy scalp and promotes new hair growth.

Burdock root

The oil from burdock root extract is rich in phytosterols and essential fatty acids, which are the nutrients required to maintain a healthy scalp and promote natural hair growth.

Coconut

Coconut provides a host of ingredients that naturally condition and promote growth of hair. The milk of the coconut contains proteins, essential fats and minerals such as potassium and iron. Coconut oil also carries the same rich ingredients and it helps to make the hair stronger from the root all through the shaft to the tip. Regular use of this oil to massage the scalp has a protective action against hair loss.

An Indian remedy for hair loss: Grate coconut and squeeze out the milk by mixing in a little water. Apply this to the specific area where you notice thinning or balding. Allow to stay overnight and the next morning, rinse off with water.

Garlic

An Indian remedy for hair loss: Crush a few cloves of garlic, add in a little coconut oil and boil for a few minutes. Allow this mix to cool down enough to feel warm to the touch and apply it on the scalp with a little massaging action. Repeat this treatment two to three times a week for best results.

Ginseng

Ginseng is believed to stimulate blood circulation, which increases the blood supply to the hair follicles. This herb is an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress, which is known to cause hair loss. If taking ginseng supplements, it would be better to take them along with vitamin B6 and zinc supplements for maximum benefit. For topical application, any hair oil infused with the ginseng root can do wonders to reduce hair loss.

He Shou Wu

The Chinese have a medicine medication called “He Shou Wu” which is also known as polygonum multiflorum. For centuries this herb has been used to treat hair loss. Recently, the American Botanical Council reported that this herb may also be useful to restore color to graying hair, as well as stimulating hair growth.

Henna

In the Asian countries henna has a major role to play in strengthening hair and as a natural hair color and conditioner. When combined with mustard oil, it works even better.

An Indian remedy for hair loss: Take about 250 ml of mustard oil in a pan; add in about 60 grams of washed and dried henna leaves. Boil the mixture until the leaves get totally burnt and then filter the oil using muslin cloth. Cool and store the oil in an airtight container and use it to massage hair on a regular basis.

Hibiscus

In Indian medicine hibiscus is said to have rejuvenating properties and that it nourishes hair, prevents premature greying and also help cure dandruff. Regular use of the flowers are said to help prevent hair loss.

Indian gooseberry

Indian gooseberry also known as “Amla” contains Vitamin C and other minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, iron, Vitamin B complex and carotene. It promotes hair growth, strengthens hair roots and increases shine. It can be eaten fresh or in dried form or in the powdered form for its benefits. Coconut oil infused with the gooseberry should be massaged on the scalp for maximum benefits.

Jatamansi or Balchara

Jatamansi or Balchara is a plant which is considered to possess hypno-sedative properties according to Indian medicine (Ayurveda). Jatamansi infused with oil is very helpful in preventing hair loss and premature graying.

Jimsonweed

Jimsonweed, also known as Thorn Apple, is used in Chinese herbal medicine to help regrow hair as well as other ailments. Drinking fruit from the juice is said to stave off hair loss, but high doses can cause irregular heartbeat and even coma.

Lavender

Lavender oils can be applied to the hair and massaged into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. The herb draws the blood to the scalp, which also helps prevent hair loss.

Neem oil

Neem oil is a vegetable oil pressed from the fruits and seeds of the neem (Azadirachta indica), an evergreen tree which is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. It has strong anti-bacterial properties which are useful for the remedy of itchy, dandruff-prone scalp. It stimulates blood circulation of the scalp, when applied topically. Neem oil is useful in thinning hair and premature graying.

Onion

An Indian remedy for hair loss: Chop the onion into fine pieces and squeeze the juice out. Apply to the scalp and leave on for about 15 minutes, then rinse with a mild shampoo.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil may help to replenish bald patches. A double-blind study done in Scotland, which was reported in the Archives of Dermatology whowed that a blend of rosemary and other essential oils accelerated hair regrowth. One group of patients had a daily scalp massage with essential oils of rosemary, thyme, lavender and cedarwood, contained in a carrier mixture of jojoba and grape seed oils, while a second group used only the carrier oils. Two dermatologists then evaluated hair regrowth after seven months. 44% of those receiving the essential oils showed visible improvement compared to only 15% of the other group.

According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, rosemary applied topically can promote new cell growth in the scalp, at least in part by curbing the buildup of scalp oil (sebum), which can plug follicles.

One treatment for hair re-growth says to dilute 10 drops in 2 teaspoons of Almond or Hemp oil and massage the scalp for 3 full minutes. Wrap the head into a towel and let it work for 15 minutes or so. Rinse and shampoo with a very mild shampoo. Keep in mind that essential oil of Rosemary is strong, so use it sparingly. Do this two to three times per week. You should start seeing some results within one month.

Rosemary Tea

Rosemary tea contains an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called rosmarinic acid. This major constituent reduces the production of leukotriene B4, an inflammatory chemical produced in the body and whose action might injure the follicle, which could contribute to excessive hair loss. Rosmarinic acid is also an antiviral and antibiotic, and helps disinfect the scalp. It is well absorbed through gastrointestinal tract so sipping even a cup of rosemary tea may benefit your hair growth.

Herbal remedies incorporate one or more of the above listed ingredients to combat hair loss. The results vary from person to person depending on the cause of the hair loss.

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Herbs For Hair Loss