|  | Conditions Treatments | Hair Loss

Organic Treatments for Baldness

Since stress, pollution and inadequate nutrition contribute to hair loss, dietary and lifestyle changes and relaxation therapies can bring improvement. Some hair loss is blamed on organophosphates used as pesticides. Switching to organic produce decreases exposure to these and may slow hair loss, though studies are needed to verify this. Beware of inflated claims; no treatment is a "cure." Some of these products and therapies may slow hair loss.

  1. Saw Palmetto

    • Saw palmetto blocks the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, the same action as the drug finasteride used as a treatment for male pattern baldness. It may prove to be an organic alternative to this drug.

    Protein

    • Since hair is made of protein, a protein-rich diet helps. Eat organic liver, brewers yeast, yogurt, eggs, fish, nuts, cheese, soy protein and soy milk, but beware of a meat-heavy diet, as this is thought by some to be a cause of male-pattern baldness.

    Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements

    • Silica is an important component of hair and is found in raw oats, bean sprouts, and the skins of cucumbers, peppers and potatoes. Anemia causes hair loss. Boost iron levels by eating organic dark-green leafy vegetables, eggs, liver and dried fruits; drink cherry juice. Take B vitamins, especially B5, B6, biotin (B7) and inositol (B8, found in brewer's yeast and wheat germ); also folic acid and vitamin E, and vitamin C, which aids iron uptake. Magnesium, zinc and copper are also beneficial. Do not take Vitamin A, as this can cause hair loss.

    Omega Fatty Acids

    • Evening primrose oil is especially useful for hair loss connected to hypothyroidism. Other essential fatty acid sources may help. Try flaxseed, black currant or borage oils and fish oil. Eat salmon, herring or mackerel twice a week.

    Essential Oils

    • Thyme, bay, safflower, lavender and cedar oils stimulate follicles and dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow. Irritating herbs such as red pepper are thought to help by causing histamine release that may stimulate follicles. Massaging oils into the scalp aids penetration and enhances the stimulation and increased blood flow. Aromatherapy and massage also provide relaxation benefits.

    Cleansing Treatments

    • Hair loss can be an autoimmune response. Soothing herbs such as aloe vera cleanse the scalp and balance pH. Look for shampoos with silica, protein, vitamin E, biotin, rosemary, aloe, henna and saw palmetto extract, as well as coconut, evening primrose, almond or jojoba oils. Steep rosemary and sage in boiling water; use this as a rinse after shampooing. Wear hats or head scarves outside, switch to organic produce, and vacuum your home frequently to reduce hair's exposure to dust and pollution.

    Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture, performed in conjunction with Chinese herbal treatments, can stimulate the scalp directly, improving blood flow. Other acupuncture points are stimulated to tackle underlying causes of poor blood flow.

    Light Therapy

    • Hair loss has been shown to be responsive to UVA and UVB therapy. Light therapy is already known to help autoimmune-related skin conditions. Laser combs are now being marketed for home phototherapy.

    Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Guided Image Therapy

    • Other therapies that may be beneficial for autoimmune-related hair loss include hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and guided imagery. Dr. Andrew Weil recommends them, pointing out that they have proved beneficial for autoimmune-related skin conditions.

Hair Loss - Related Articles