Naturopathic Hair Loss Treatment

Hair loss can be due to a variety of causes including stress, nutritional deficiency, aging or disease, according to Dr. Elena Krasnov, N.D., of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Prescription medications, crash diets, pregnancy, chemotherapy and wearing ponytails are other possible causes.

Nutritional Supplements

• Research indicates that the following nutritional supplements may be helpful in restoring hair: iron, L-lysine, zinc, vitamin B, and grape seed extract and oil.

Herbs

• A Finnish study suggests taking ginkgo biloba and bilberry extracts to increase circulation in the scalp. Other helpful herbs include saw palmetto and a rosemary-olive oil blend massaged into the scalp.

Products

• Hair care products such as hot oil treatments, permanent solutions and dyes often damage hair and can cause hair loss. Switch to gentle shampoos and natural hair coloring products such as henna.

Hairstyle

• Overuse of ponytails, buns and cornrows places undue stress on hair and the scalp. Overusing curling irons, blow dryers and hot rollers damages hair. Wear your hair loose and natural often.

Prescription Drugs

• Ask your doctor if any prescribed drugs may be causing hair loss. For instance, an overabundance of Vitamin A in prescription acne medications may cause hair loss.

Reduce Stress

• Work out, do yoga, soak in a hot bath, take walks in nature, read, listen to peaceful music, learn jokes or find some other practice that will help to reduce your anxiety and stress levels.