Losing hair can be frustrating, not to mention embarrassing. Heredity or scalp conditions often lead to chronic hair loss for both men and women. Despite an array of popular hair-growth creams and medications touted as successful, natural herbs can also provide an alternative to growing hair. Remember to discuss any alternative medicine with your physician.
Pygeum
The bark of the Pygeum tree has traditionally been used by Africans for its healing properties, according to the "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine." Animal research, the book says, has shown that the plant can improve hair growth along with its primary use of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia. Popularity of Pygeum has quickly risen among senior citizens, especially for those of the baby boomer generation. Pygeum primarily grows in central and southern Africa and can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The herb can be infused into a milk tea or used as a capsule.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a small palm tree indigenous to the southeastern United States. The Seminole tribe of Florida was among the first to use the plant's fruit for medical purposes. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the plant is used to treat a host of ailments, including urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, chronic pelvic pain, bladder disorders, hormonal imbalances and hair loss. Saw palmetto can be taken in a variety of forms, including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. The herb is also available as extracts, tablets or as an infusion or a tea. Saw palmetto can cause mild side effects, such as stomach discomfort.
Ginkgo Biloba
According to the Herbs for Hairloss website, ginkgo biloba is one of the most popular herbal remedies to aid in hair growth. Herbalists, the site says, believe that the herb's ability to increase blood circulation to the skin helps deliver more nutrients to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth and regrowth. Ginkgo, according to the "Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine," is thought to be the oldest tree in the world, first growing close to 190 million years ago. The plants are native to China but are also grown in large plantations in France and the United States. Both the seeds and leaves of ginkgo biloba can be made into extracts or infused as a drink.
References
- "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine"; Steven Foster and Rebecca L. Johnson; 2006
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Saw Palmetto
- Herbs for Hairloss: Ginkgo Biloba
- "Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine"; Andrew Chevallier, FNIMH; 2000
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