Hair Loss Alternative Medicine

It is natural to shed quite a few hairs every day, but when thin hair or bald patches begin to appear it may be time to do something about it. Hair transplants, hair growth serums, hair pieces and concealers are all viable options for treating or covering up thinning hair. Alternative forms of treatment, such as aromatherapy, herbal remedies, nutritional therapy and acupuncture, are other options, whether used alone or in conjunction with other, more conventional, treatments.

Aromatherapy

• Aromatherapy for hair loss involves the use of essential oils to stimulate and nourish hair follicles. They include rosemary, sage, cedarwood, jojoba, bay, lavender, lemon and grapefruit oils. Typically, several drops of one or more of these oils are added to a base of a vegetable-based oil such a olive, sesame, almond, or soybean oil, and massaged vigorously into the scalp. Several oils can be combined and used together to create a powerful blend to stimulate hair growth. Another aromatherapy strategy involves the use of homemade natural shampoo containing growth-stimulating oils.

Herbal Treatments

• Herbal remedies are a common alternative treatment for hair loss, and those that are said to stimulate hair growth include rosemary, stinging nettle, sage, licorice extract, birch, marigold, arnica and aloe vera. Fresh herbs can be applied to the scalp in the form of a tea, tincture or tonic, some can be taken in supplement form and still others can be massaged into the scalp or added to a shampoo in the form of an oil or extract. Many of these herbs are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and may cause irritation or side effects. You may wish to consult a medical professional or herbal practitioner before using any product.

Nutritional Therapy

• According to some professionals, hair loss can occur because of a lack of vital nutrients. Accordingly, corrective measures may include changes to the daily diet and/or taking a nutritional supplement. B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, iodine, sulfur, and vitamins E and C are all nutrients that may benefit hair growth and texture. A nutritional approach to reversing hair loss may require that the person eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as lean protein such as eggs, yogurt and fish.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture, the ancient Chinese technique of inserting very small needles into pressure points in the body, is another alternative for treating hair loss. Acupuncturists believe that acidity or toxic substances in the blood can make hair fall out or become lackluster. Acupuncture needles are thought to increase blood circulation to the scalp, providing more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. This treatment can also be helpful in reducing stress, which is often a cause of thinning hair.