Your hair grows about a half inch per month, and you lose about 100 hairs per day. Hair consists of dead cells filled with a protein called keratin, according to Rush University, and grows from the dermal, or second layer, of your scalp. Normally, your scalp holds about 300,000 hairs. Reasons for poor hair growth may be alopecia or hair shaft disorders. Certain vitamins and herbs may help your hair grow, but always consult your doctor first, especially if replacing a conventional treatment.
About Alopecia
There are two types of hair thinning, or alopecia, that occur in men and women: scarring alopecia, which damages the hair follicle and is irreversible, and non-scarring alopecia, which may be reversible. Alopecia is characterized by inflammation; receding hairline; broken hairs; smooth scalp; and possible loss of pubic hairs, eyebrows and eyelashes. Causes may include pregnancy, severe stress, disease, medications, skin disorders, iron deficiency, bacterial infections and scalp radiation, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Herbal Solutions
Herbs that may be useful to promote hair growth include ginkgo biloba extract of between 40 to 80 mg, taken three times per day. UMMC states that ginkgo helps increase circulation and provides an antioxidant effect. UMMC also suggests using topical applications of essential oils that may stimulate hair growth. Combine three to four drops each of sage, rosemary and peppermint oils in a tablespoon of olive oil. Massage the oil mixture into your scalp to encourage hair growth. As with any treatments concerning herbs or supplements, consult your physician first.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant whose properties may help with your hair growth, suggests UMMC. As an antioxidant, vitamin C neutralizes free radicals, thus preventing new or further tissue and cell destruction. Vitamin C also plays a role in making collagen for blood vessels. A good blood supply is needed for healthy scalps. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin C is 125 mg per day, with the upper intake level set at 2,000 mg per day. Prior to taking supplements, seek your doctor's advice .
Biotin
Biotin, or B7, is part of the B-complex family of vitamins, needed for the metabolizing of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Biotin also plays a vital role in promoting hair development and growth, notes a 1981 study in the journal "Pediatrics." The journal cites a documented case regarding a pre-adolescent boy on a diet that contained raw eggs. Raw eggs contain a substance that pulls biotin out of your system. The boy presented with a biotin deficiency and alopecia totalis, the complete loss of hair. Once the raw eggs were removed from the diet and biotin was supplemented, the boy's hair grew back. The adequate intake allowance for biotin is 30 mcg per day. Before adding supplements to your diet, consult your doctor.
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