Healthy hair is a sign of overall mental and physical health. To encourage the growth of healthy luxurious hair, consume a variety of fresh whole foods and take herbal supplements that support hair growth. Focus on eating foods that are high in vitamin E and B-vitamins, especially riboflavin, folic acid and inositol. Combat mental and emotional stress with good self care, adequate sleep, relaxation techniques and positive lifestyle changes.
Step 1
Eliminate or greatly reduce processed foods from your diet. These foods have much of their nutritional content removed during processing. Processed foods not only take the place of the wholesome foods you would have eaten otherwise, but also creates a nutrient debt since you actually use up some essential vitamins and minerals to digest the food, and do not take in enough nutrition to replace them. Replace processed foods with whole grains--such as brown rice, fresh fruits and vegetables, beans and eggs.
Step 2
Consume more leafy greens. Leafy green vegetables--such as turnip greens, kale and Swiss chard--are high in B vitamins. Add finely chopped greens to soups or cooked whole grains. Saute them with garlic, salt, pepper and ghee for a simple and nutritious side dish.
Step 3
Eat fenugreek sprouts. Fenugreek seeds are a traditional remedy for balding since they have properties purported to nourish hair growth. Soak 1/2 tbsp. of the seeds in water in a covered glass jar. Rinse the seeds daily and add new water. When they sprout little tails they are ready to eat. Enjoy them in salads or as a garnish to soups, grains and vegetable dishes.
Step 4
Consume more low-fat dairy products such as low-fat cheese, skim milk and eggs. Milk products are high in B vitamins such as riboflavin and niacin. Eggs provide B5 and vitamin E.
Step 5
Drink herbal tea daily to encourage hair growth. Pour 8 oz. boiling water over 1 tbsp. dried sage, nettle and rosemary. Steep 10 minutes, strain and drink. This tea will increase circulation to the scalp and provide important minerals.
Step 6
Relax. According to The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies, stress is one of the prime causes of hair loss. Combat stress with yoga, meditation or long walks outside. Essential oil of atlas cedar is especially good for reducung stress associated with hair loss. Use it in a diffuser in your home or office or add 10 drops to 3 tbsp. of a carrier oil--such as almond oil--and massage it directly into your scalp and ears. Do not use atlas cedar if you are pregnant.
Things You'll Need
- Foods high in B-vitamins and vitamin E such as whole grains and fresh fruit
- Dark leafy greens
- Fenugreek seeds
- Dried sage, nettle and rosemary
- Atlas cedar essential oil
References
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies"; Shealy, Norman MD, Ph.D.; 1998
- "Diet and Nutrition"; Rudolph Ballentine, MD; 1978
- "Organic Body Care Recipes;" Tourles, Stephanie; 2007
- "Aromatherapy Guide to Essential Oils"; Melissa Farris, 2001
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