Herbs to Help Stop Hair Loss

While there is no lasting damage to the body that occurs from hair loss, there is often a high level of emotional or psychological stress that accompanies it. People experiencing hair loss often rely on conventional or alternative products to stem its effects. Several of these products as well as subsequent remedies make use of herbs to help strengthen hair and combat disease.

Herbs

• Herbs can often be mixed with liquid and applied directly to the scalp. Try mixing 4 tbsp. dried thyme with 2 cups water. Boil the mixture for 10 minutes and allow it to cool before massaging it into your hair. Hair should be damp and clean before applying the mixture. Rinse with warm water after one hour.

  Herbs are often used in hair-loss shampoos and conditioners. These typically require diligent use over a several-month period. Herbal shampoos and conditioners strengthen and thicken hair, but may not promote hair growth. Most can be purchased online or over the counter at health food stores.

  Green tea has been used to stem hair loss. Mix green tea leaves or teabags with hot water and drink several cups per day. Likewise, the Chinese herb known as He Shou Wu or Fo-Ti has been used to combat hair loss and can be drunk in tea form.

  The fastest way to ingest herbs is through pill form. Herbs like stinging nettle, saw palmetto and pygeum have all been used to fight hair loss and can be taken in pill form.

Supplements

• Herbs should be used alongside supplements for the greatest effect. For example, receiving a healthy dose of daily vitamin C can help prevent hair loss from stress, illness or trauma. Include fruits and vegetables like parsley, broccoli, green peppers and fruit juices in your diet. These are high in vitamin C. Maintaining a high level of protein found in foods like fish, peas, tofu, cheese and wheat germ may also help reduce the effects of hair loss. Hair-loss supplements like zinc and vitamin B-50 complex can also be taken in pill form.

Warning

• Herbs are highly experimental and should not be considered cures for hair loss. Do not rely solely on herbs to stop hair loss or regrow lost hair. Some herbs or supplements may act as allergens, so speak with a doctor or specialist before taking pills or ingesting herbs.