Even though there are just two hair loss methods approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)--minoxidil and finasteride--that has not stopped people from trying different methods to fight their hair loss battles. Many of these natural treatments have little to offer, while others have shown a bit of promise.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are often the first place a person will turn when dealing with hair loss. The popularity of herbal treatments is in part due to the nature of certain herbs acting much line finasteride--one of the two FDA approved hair loss treatments--for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, or an enlarged prostate. Among the herbs that fall into this category are saw palmetto, nettle root, pygeum, Dong Quai and pumpkin seed oil. Other popular herbal treatments include green tea, kotu kola, ginko biloba and eleuthero.
Vitamin Remedies
A vitamin deficiency may be a cause of hair loss, particularly the Vitamin B family. The B vitamins play key roles in maintaining healthy hair and deficiencies can certainly have an impact on hair growth. A good B-complex vitamin should cover the needs of most people, although some may want to add individual niacin, pantothenic acid and B-6 supplements. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are both believed to improve circulation, which will stimulate blood flow in the scalp region.
Supplements
Zinc, sulfur and magnesium are several of the main supplements taken for hair loss. Zinc is known for its ability to enhance the immune system, while sulfur is believed to increase scalp circulation and decrease inflammation. Magnesium is another supplement to aid the immune system and help prevent hair loss.
Topical Remedies
Cayenne pepper and aloe vera are both popular topical treatments, although each are lacking any real evidence to lend them support. One topical treatment that is generally well received is Nizoral shampoo. Ketoconazole, the active ingredient in Nizoral, is an anti-inflammatory agent capable of impeding androgens, which will lead to hair loss. Experts on the Hair Loss Talk site called Nizoral "the most important component of every hair loss treatment regimen."
Massage Remedy
Some people believe that a daily scalp massage will increase blood circulation through the scalp, which will nourish the hair follicles and prevent hair loss. There also may be a strengthening of the roots, which will help keep existing hair.
Member Comments