Herbs to Make Hair Grow Fast

Human hair is made by the protein keratin, which is the same protein that creates toenails and fingernails, as well as the outermost layer of skin. The hair growth cycle is comprised of three different phases. Anagen is the growing phase; catagen is the degradation process; telogen is known as the resting phase. Hair growth can be stimulated through the use of certain herbs and supplements. Speak with your doctor before taking any hair growth herbs, especially if you are currently taking medications.

Ginkgo Biloba

• According to the University of Maryland, ginkgo biloba is among the world's oldest tree species. Traditionally, ginkgo has been used medicinally to enhance blood flow throughout the body and brain, which results in enhanced memory functions. Ginkgo biloba extract, or GBE, is mainly used for medicinal purposes. Terpenoids and flavonoids are the main active compounds within ginkgo. Both are potent antioxidants, which eliminate free radicals from the body; however, terpenoids enhance blood flow by dilating the blood vessels. Since the blood vessels are dilated throughout the entire body, the scalp will receive greater circulation to support healthy hair follicles.

  Consume 120 mg of ginkgo biloba extract split into three doses of 40 mg. Take it with eight oz. of water per dose. According to a report from the University of Maryland Medical Center, visible results will noticed after four to six weeks.

Saw Palmetto

• Saw palmetto is cultivated within the southeastern region of the United States. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, saw palmetto controls the level of testosterone within the body. The Mayo Clinic reports that this herb prevents dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, from being created. DHT is responsible for damaging hair follicles, which causes hair loss. The anti-inflammatory qualities of saw palmetto promote hair growth by protecting the hair follicle from damage. Saw palmetto is also used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BHP, which is when the prostate is enlarged due to overgrown prostate cells.

  Saw palmetto is available in liquid extract, tea or capsule forms. To consume this herb to stimulate hair growth, consume 160 mg twice a day with eight oz. of water. Speak with your physician prior to starting this supplement, as it can have adverse reactions to certain medications.

Grape Seed Extract

• Grape seed extract is used medicinally to reduce high blood pressure, improve circulation, lower cholesterol and stimulate the growth of hair follicles. The active compounds within grape seed extract include flavonoids, vitamin E, procyanidins and linoleic acid. These compounds are studied for their high antioxidant quality, and according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the levels of antioxidants in participants increased when supplementing with grape seed extract. By increasing the antioxidants within the body, circulation will improve and free radicals that are hindering new hair follicles from forming will be eradicated.

  To consume grape seed extract, take 100 mg three times per day with eight oz. water. If you are taking other herbal supplements or medications, speak with your physician to make sure the combination of grape seed extract is safe.