Herbs To Regain Hair Growth In Men

Aside from the genetic male pattern balding, most hair loss in men stems from similar sources as in women. Whether from poor nutrition, hormonal problems or drug therapy, hair loss is disturbing for many men. Certain herbs are known for their ability to stimulate the system and may encourage hair regrowth. However, herbs can cause side effects. Consult your health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbal products.

Hair Loss

Many men experience hair loss due to inherited tendencies known as male pattern baldness, where hair is lost from the front and top of the head, leaving a band of hair growing around the lower portion of the head from ear to ear. However, there are other reasons for men's hair loss, including a reduction in testosterone as a man ages, improper nutrition resulting in vitamin deficiencies, chemotherapy and other drug reactions, hormone problems involving the thyroid gland and stress. Men have attempted to regrow lost hair with various creams and chemicals, some of which produce severe side effects and others that don't work at all. Various herbs, especially those used in China, may be helpful in helping with hair growth.

Chinese Herbs

Various herbal mixes are available from Chinese apothecaries and from doctors of Oriental medicine who specialize in herbal treatments. Most herbal tonics are made-to-order for each man, based on his health history, needs, activity levels and overall nutritional state. According to Ageless Herbs, many mixtures include the herb fo-ti, which is known to restore hair and hair color for some people. In addition, reishi mushroom, called the mushroom of immortality, may be included in the tonic. Reishi mushroom helps to balance the body's hormones and stimulate scalp blood flow. Ligustrum lucidum helps with increasing circulation and Schisandra chinensis improves the skin quality while stimulating the hair follicles.

For the best combination of herbs for your condition, visit an herbalist or a doctor of Oriental medicine for a prescription. Since some of these herbs can cause side effects, speak with your health-care provider first before using any herbal product for hair regrowth.

Aromatherapy Preparations

Some men may prefer using topical preparations applied directly to their scalp to stimulate hair growth. Certain herbs used mostly in aromatherapy treatments are meant to be directly applied to the scalp. A mix of essential oils of lavender, cedar, thyme and rosemary are combined in an oil base and rubbed into the scalp nightly to stimulate blood flow and replenish the skin around hair follicles, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some essential oils can cause side effects and you should consult your health practitioner or an aromatherapist before using them. If you develop a skin rash or other symptoms related to the treatment, stop and speak to your herbalist.

Herbal Supplements

Some herbs can be used on their own as supplements to stimulate new hair growth for men. Ginkgo biloba stimulates blood flow to the capillaries in the scalp, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, ginkgo may increase your memory and help with improved cognitive function because of its ability to oxygenate blood flow to the brain, says "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Ginkgo may thin the blood and should not be used by people taking blood-thinners except under medical supervision.