Modern hair care involves stripping the hair of oils, applying chemical hair products to hold hair in place, and bombarding the hair with a wide array of chemical treatments to color, curl, or straighten the hair. This mistreatment of the hair leads to damaged, brittle, dried-out hair that breaks off and falls out easily. Luckily, universities such as the University of Maryland Medical Center suggest that there are natural ways to help encourage hair growth and to promote healthy, strong hair.
Scalp Stimulation
The scalp is covered with nerves and blood vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. When the follicles do not receive enough oxygen, they can become suffocated and will stop producing hair cells. Many people are suffocating their hair without even realizing it, by constantly wearing hats and pulling their hair back into ponytails too often. Luckily, the scalp can be re-stimulated and can begin to reproduce hair cells. In order to stimulate the scalp, it should be massaged with the fingers or with a prong-style hairbrush for at least five minutes per day. This will encourage the circulation of blood onto the scalp and will carry oxygen to the hair follicles, stimulating new hair cell growth.
Rosemary for Hair Growth
A study presented at The University of Maryland Medical Center showed that applying rosemary oil to the scalp can significantly increase hair re-growth and hair strength. Rosemary improves circulation, while fighting off free radicals that could hinder hair growth. Rosemary oil can be used in combination with a scalp stimulating massage to further encourage circulation to the scalp and hair growth. Rosemary oil can be purchased at a health food store or online from an essential oil supplier. Purchasing an organic rosemary oil will ensure that the oil will not contain any pesticides or herbicides that may have accidentally become infused in the oil from processing.
Vitamins for Hair Growth
Certain nutrients have been shown to significantly increase hair growth, hair strength and hair elasticity. Some of these helpful nutrients are the B vitamins, especially vitamins B5, B6, and B3. Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, can be found in corn, liver, and sunflower seeds. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, can be found in tuna, bananas, and chicken breast. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, can be found in crimini mushrooms and salmon. Biotin is another helpful nutrient for hair growth that can be found in brewer's yeast, oats and lentils.
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