Hair is loss is often the result of stress, poor nutrition, certain medical conditions or treatments, or poor hair care. Healthy hair regrowth is possible without the use of prescribed or over-the-counter hair restoration products. Herbs that benefit the body also promote healthy hair. The following herbs are ingredients in many of today's hair products and are used for strengthening the hair and stimulating hair growth. You can also use them as oils applied directly to the hair and scalp.
Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant originated in southern Africa and spread to the Mediterranean, Middle East, Caribbean, Central, South, and North Americas. The ancient Egyptians were the first to use aloe vera for its health benefits, followed by Chinese, Japanese and Persian healers as a form of natural medicine. Today there are about 200 species of the aloe vera plant being cultivated in the southwestern U.S., Venezuela, South Africa and Caribbean. The plant is characterized by long tapered leaves that contain a gel substance widely used in cosmetics. The gel has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is known for soothing irritated skin. Applying the gel to the scalp restores the hair’s pH balance and seals in moisture, working as a natural hair conditioner. Aloe vera also stimulates hair growth and is a common remedy for alopecia.
Rosemary
The use of rosemary originated in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. The plant was considered sacred and used primarily in religious ceremonies and as a way to ward off evil spirits. Rosemary is a shrubby evergreen bush that belongs to the mint family, which includes basil, lavender, myrtle and sage. It originated in Asia and is now grown in France, Tunisia and Yugoslavia. Its oil has a powerful herbal aroma known for stimulating the brain and improving mental clarity. Rosemary oil stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth. It also slows premature hair loss and graying and alleviates symptoms of a dry, flaky scalp. Massaging the scalp daily with the oil also removes dandruff.
Jojoba
Jojoba is a perennial evergreen shrub originating from the Sonoran desert of Mexico, Arizona and California. The plant grows up to 15 feet tall and has a life span of 100 to 200 years. Today the plant is primarily cultivated in the southwestern U.S. Jojoba oil is a primary ingredient in hair and scalp preparations. The oil penetrates into the scalp and hair shaft and loosens and removes sebum build-up to maintain healthy function of the hair follicles and healthy hair growth. Jojoba also removes sticky build-up resulting from daily use of hair products and exposure to airborne particulates. It gives the hair a shimmering appearance and brings out its natural color.
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