Patricia Hammond asked:


Herbal remedies are useful and effective ways to help people suffering from hair loss. Since herbal remedies are natural, they are generally considered safe and free from side effects, although there may be isolated cases once in a while. Each herbal remedy for hair loss are believed to provide hope for people experiencing hair loss. Below is a list of herbal remedies for hair loss that have been proven to be effective.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is a potent herbal remedy for hair loss with medicinal properties that showed efficacy in improving blood circulation to the scalp and head and to other parts of the body. It is believed that the increase of blood to the brain and skin provides more nutrients to the hair follicles, causing hair to grow back.

Saw Palmetto (Seranoa Repens)

Saw palmetto is also an herbal remedy for hair loss that is currently the treatment of choice of several men because of its capability to slow down hair loss and stimulate new hair growth. Tinctures and extracts from this herb block the receptors on cell membranes for dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the main cause of hair loss in many patients. Also, this herbal remedy for hair loss prevents the formation of DHT the way that FDA-approved hair loss treatment medication finasteride does. This ability makes saw palmetto an effective treatment for hair loss.

Stinging Nettle (Urtica Diocia)

Stinging nettle is an herbal remedy for hair loss that has long been preferred as a means of curbing balding. This herb slows down loss of hair by preventing testosterone from being converted into DHT, allowing stimulation of hair growth. Stinging nettle is more effective when used together with pygeum and saw palmetto.

Pygeum (Pygeum Africanum)

Pygeum is an herbal remedy for hair loss that has the capability to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that regulates the production of DHT. Pygeum also prevents loss of hair by slowing down the conversion of testosterone to DTH, thereby preventing hair follicles from weakening.

Green Tea (Camellia Sinesis)

Camellia Sinesis is another herbal remedy for hair loss considered an effective cure for male pattern baldness. Green tea contains components called catechins that help in preventing hair loss. These catechins prevent the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase from converting male hormone testosterone to DHT.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)

He Shou Wu is a Chinese herbal remedy for hair loss. It has been traditionally used as a remedy for hair loss. It has also been used in many commercial preparations that reduce loss of hair. In its processed form, He Shou Wu delivers nourishment to the liver. Blood in the liver nourishes the head and the hair, thus, promoting growth of hair and preventing hair from becoming gray.

Gotu kola

Gotu kola is a herbal remedy for hair loss that works by stimulating and increasing blood circulation throughout the brain and the scalp, which then revitalizes the hair follicles. When hair follicles have sufficient blood flow, they are protected from the harmful activity caused by DHT. Gotu kola extract also purifies the blood and improves the growth and the health of hair. Several herbal products that use gotu kola as a base promote hair growth and fortify collagen and the blood vessels.

bivan asked:


There is again no sure-fire way to prevent all hair loss; however, there are some methods that have been used that work on some people.

Massage and aromatherapy have been used with some success. In minor cases of temporary hair loss, hair growth can be stimulated by massage, since blood and oxygen flow to the scalp must be healthy in order for hair to grow.

A blend of six drops each of lavender and bay essential oils in a base of fourounces of either almond, soybean or sesame oil massaged into the scalp and allowed to sit for 20 minutes has been used by aroma therapists to stimulate the scalp.

Once the mixture is in the scalp for 20 minutes, wash your hair and scalp with your normal shampoo mixed with three drops of bay essential oil. Massaging the scalp in general for a couple of minutes a day can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and in mild cases stimulate some hair growth.

Studies have shown Saw Palmetto extract is an effective anti-androgen and therefore there is promise for its effectiveness as an effective treatment for hair loss prevention. Women who take Saw Palmetto should cease doing so when taking oral contraceptives or hormone therapy.

Nettles are rich in vitamins A and C, several key minerals and lipids that can be beneficial to the hair. Nettle Root Extract has been used successfully in Europe as an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase in treating BPH. As mentioned earlier, 5-alpha reductase is a key component in turning testosterone into DHT, the substance that causes the atrophy of hair follicles. Therefore there is great promise in its use as a component in natural hair loss treatments. Nettle Root Extract is available at health food stores over the counter, and has few side effects.

Rosemary and sage are two herbs that have shown benefit traditionally when used externally. It is suggested that to promote a clean scalp, stimulation of the hair root, and thickening hair one should boil together in water rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock. Then strain the loose herbs from the liquid and use the liquid to wash the hair daily.

Aloe Vera has been used by Native Americans, Indians and many in the Caribbean to promote healthy hair and prevent hair loss. Aloes positive effects on the skin are well known, and likewise it can help the scalp by healing it and balancing the pH level of the scalp while cleansing the pores. A common preparation of Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefit.

Of course, if you do not want to go through the trouble of concocting your own formulas, similar products, or products containing these ingredients, may be found in the health food store if one does some searching.

Article written by Ken Shorey.

Bertil Hjert asked:


Hair Loss can make a person lose confidence and even self esteem in some cases. It can also result in a good amount of stress and anxiety. Hair on the scalp is very important for good looks. It provides an aura to ones overall personalities. Hence, it is very important to get the right kind of treatment at the right time to save your crowning glory.

Here are some of the natural hair loss remedies that can work wonders to your hair.

a) Massage

This is an age old remedy. Your grandmother must have been prescribing you this remedy for a long time. You can massage your scalp for a couple of minutes in a day. It will increase the flow of blood to the hair follicles. In some cases, this ritual will stimulate hair growth and also prevent hair loss. These days, you get different types of electric massagers on the market for scalp massage. You can purchase one of these to improve blood flow to hair follicles and prevent hair loss.

b) Aromatherapy

This therapy works better to prevent hair loss and also helps in improving hair growth. It is an amalgamation of six drops, each of lavender and bay essential oils blended in to a base of four ounces of either almond, sesame oil or Soybean in to the scalp. Once you apply it to the scalp, wait for twenty minutes and stimulate the scalp. It soothes your mind.

c) Rosemary and Sage

These are known to be miracle herbs for hair if used externally. You must boil rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock in water daily and then strain the herbs from the liquid. Now, use the liquid to wash hair daily.

d) Jojoba Oil

This oil is a good remedy if your scalp suffering from eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis or dandruff. This oil is known widely for its hair growth promoting properties. It also moisturizes the hair and works as the scalps natural serum.

e) Aloe Vera

This is also considered to be the hairs miracle herb. Used by Native Americans, Caribbeans and Indians for ages, this herb promotes healthy hair and prevent hair loss. It can also heal the scalp and balance the pH level of the scalp in addition to cleansing the pores. You can combine Aloe Vera gel, coconut milk and wheat germ oil to be used as a shampoo to enjoy the real benefit.

f) Henna

It is a traditional Indian herb. This herb acts as a natural conditioner and is great for maintaining healthy hair. It works towards healing the hair shaft by repairing and sealing the cuticle. It also protects hair against breakage and loss of shine.

g) Psyllium husk

Fiber is a vital source of cleansing. Psyllium husk is a bulking laxative agent. One can use it to remove waste through the colon. It scrubs the walls of the colon gently to remove waste that has been stucked to the walls. This detoxification method promotes hair growth.

h) Nettle root extract

Nettles are rich sources of vitamins A and C. These provide great benefits to hair.

i) Exercise

Exercise may not have direct effect on hair growth but it works wonders to improve blood circulation and eliminate wastes from the body. This in turn promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss.

peterhutch asked:


Hair is made of the protein kerotin, the same substance found in nails and skin. Each hair rises out of a bulb-like follicle and goes through a cycle of growth for up to five years. It then stops growing and goes into a period of rest, after which it falls out and a new hair starts to grow.

Hair loss can be caused by a number of factors, some of which are circulation, stress, hormonal changes and nutrition. Of course the toughest factor to overcome is genetics.

Hair is a reflection on the overall condition of your body. A healthy and well-nourished body reflects in bouncy and healthy hair. Analyzing a snip of hair can give a clear picture of any deficiency of vitamins and minerals. Any sort of nutritional deficiency would result in thinning hair, hair loss or even baldness. A malfunctioning thyroid can also play havoc with the condition of your hair. Excessive stress and certain medications are known to contribute to falling hair

Iron deficiency is the biggest problem for non genetic hair loss amongst women in Britain.

For iron to be absorbed in the body Vitamin C and Lysine acid needs to be taken. If you do not eat alot of red meat then it could be difficult to absorb enough iron, so it is advisable to consider using a supplement. It is very important to look after your digestion by eating vegetables and fruit on a daily basis. It is also important to eat the following foods on a regular basis.

Home Hair Treatments

Here are some herbal homemade hair treatments and natural home remedies for hair, which have also stood the test of time:

When your hair looks very stressed, nettles are a wonderful tonic and detox. Infuse dried nettle leaves (some health food stores now carry nettle tea bags) and drink the tea. The infusion can also be used as a hair rinse.

Home remedy for conditioning your blond hair – To shine and condition blond hair, rinse in chamomile tea. Add one teaspoon of lemon juice to a liter of tea for extra shine.

Rosemary Beauticians have swore by the benefits of Rosemary herb as a beauty and skin aide. It will nourish your dry and flaky scalp helping you get rid of dandruff. It also slows down premature hair loss and graying.

Chamomile Chamomile is a great conditioner for damaged and dry hair. When used for rinsing after shampoo it will help restore shine and bring out the natural highlights for blondes. It also helps to strengthen the hair to prevent breakage, tangling and split ends.

Ginger hair oil is a wonderful hair treatment which stimulates hair growth, boosts the scalps circulation, and alleviates dandruff. Ginger treatment will leave your hair feel soft, clean, and pleasantly smelling of herbs. In order to make this fantastic hair remedy at home, grate 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, place it in a cheesecloth, and squeeze ginger juice (you will get about 1/4 tsp juice). Mix the fresh juice with 1/4 cup light sesame oil and blend well together. To treat hair, apply the ready ginger hair oil onto your scalp, massage inside your hair, and leave on for about 15 minutes before shampooing.

We all need a bit of a pick-me-up from time to time and your vegetables, herbs, fruits and soil will also benefit from a boost of liquid tonic every now and then. Its not a good idea to force your plants to feed when they drink, so I dont recommend regular weekly feeding, but just as a boost.

We all want the best results from our efforts in the garden. Giving your veggies a liquid boost can provide them with nutrients and trace elements that are not always available to them.

Making your own liquid fertilizer is a simple task that can be done in just a few minutes. Then its just a matter of waiting for it to mature, which can take up to a month.

The basic equipment you need is a large plastic container with a tightly fitting lid. The container must never have been used for toxic chemicals.

Make different brews, depending on what youre wanting to accomplish. When it has matured, dilute to a pale yellow colour, otherwise it may be too strong. Then use as you need it.

Weeds

Often if you have a particular weed problem in your garden, it is there to help restore the balance of nutrients in the soil. If you make a liquid manure from that particular weed and use it as a foliar spray, it will often reduce the recurrence of that weed.

Also, deep-rooted weeds such as dandelion, dock, yarrow, burnet and wire-weed bring nutrients to the surface that have leached down into the sub-soil.

Nettle Tea

A brew made from stinging nettles (Urtica) will encourage growth in spring. Use gloves when pulling up the nettles. You need to fill your container with nettles and completely cover with water. Allow the mix to ferment until the nettles have completely broken down.

Fish

Place fish scraps in your container and just cover with water. Make sure you have a tight fitting lid to prevent flies getting to it (and the smell from getting to you). Let it ferment for about a month. It should be mostly decomposed by then. This brew is a rich source of trace elements, so you need to use it very diluted.

Comfrey

If you want to give your fruiting plants, such as pumpkins and tomatoes a boost, try a liquid manure made from comfrey as it is very high in potash. It will break down quickly and with very little solid residue as its leaves contain a high amount of water.

Compost

If you need a fungal preventative, make a tea from compost. The compost must have some animal manure included for this to work. Put some compost in a hessian bag and soak in water for a few days. Youll need to dilute it to the colour of weak tea, then spray on plant leaves every 10 14 days.

Lisa McDowell asked:


If you would like to better understand how to cure gout in a natural way, then you may wish to examine the impact of certain herbs and other at-home treatments that can help to control the inflammation, minimize uric acid production, and ease the pain from which all gout patients suffer.

The following methods, substances, spices and herbs can all be used at home to treat gout naturally, however, please remember to consult your doctor before trying any of these remedies:

- Epsom Salt baths – to ease discomfort of gout and reduce the inflammation, place 2 to 3 teaspoons of Epsom salts into a footbath, basin, or pan that is large enough to immerse the affected foot/joint. The water should be as hot as you can stand it without discomfort. Soak the gouty joint for approximately thirty minutes. This technique also works if you take a whole-body Epsom salt bath. If the gout occurs in a part of the body other than the foot, this will be the preferred method. In this case, you will need one to two cups of Epsom salts (follow the instructions on the package).

- Nettle Tea – nettle tea increases the excretion of uric acid from the body and many swear by it for treating gouty joints. It functions by facilitating the elimination of urates from the body. Nettle will work both as a tea or a tincture. The teas are fine for milder cases, but the tinctures are usually recommended in more severe cases of gout.

- Devil’s Claw – devil’s claw is a natural anti-inflammatory that also features properties for minimizing pain. It has also been known to facilitate the elimination of uric acid from the body, therefore helping to shorten gout attacks and prevent them from recurring.

- Turmeric – turmeric is not only a common spice in many forms of cooking, but it also inhibits prostaglandins (involved in pain) synthesis in the body. The way it functions is quite similar to the action of ibuprofen or aspirin, only at a weaker level. When the doses are high enough, though, turmeric will stimulate the adrenal glands so that the body will begin the production and release of natural cortisones, which will rapidly and effectively reduce pain and inflammation.

- Bromelain and Quercetin – these substances are best used together. Quercetin is an anti-inflammatory and may inhibit xantine oxidase, which causes the body to produce less uric acid. It can be found in supplements, onions, apples, pink grapefruit, watermelon, elderberries, and green leafy vegetables. It can also be found in black tea, green tea, and elderberry juice. Bromelain, the active ingredient found in pineapple, is also an anti-inflammatory and is available through dietary supplement.

- Yucca – yucca is an effective blood purifier, which helps to reduce the pain of gout and arthritis. It also helps to decrease the build-up of toxins in the body, therefore assisting in the prevention of gout. It can also break-up inorganic mineral deposits and obstructions in the joints as well as decreasing joint inflammation, two major symptoms of gout.

Of course, knowing how to cure gout isn’t just a matter of what you consume, but also what you do. As important as herbs and other remedies are to treating gout in a natural way, so is exercise, when done properly. Remember to consult your doctor before taking any natural remedies for the first time.

Harper Watson asked:


Fact: There is no sure-fire way to prevent all hair loss.

However, some methods that have been used work on some people. Here are some suggestions for natural remedies to hair loss.

Massage

Massaging the scalp in general for a couple of minutes a day can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and in mild cases stimulate some hair growth in minor cases of temporary hair loss.

There are several electric massagers on the market that have an attachment for scalp massaging as well. An oriental method called Qi Gong (pronounced Chi Kung) has been used to increase circulation to the scalp and face also.

Aromatherapy

A blend of six drops each of lavender and bay essential oils in a base of four ounces of either almond, soybean or sesame oil massaged into the scalp and allowed to sit for 20 minutes has been used by aroma therapists to stimulate the scalp.

Saw Palmetto Extract

There is a definite connection between the prostate and hair loss for men. Saw Palmetto has been found to work in fighting benign prostatic disease by lowering levels of DHT, which is a known cause of androgenetic alopecia.

Saw Palmetto extract is an effective anti-androgen and shows promise as an effective treatment for hair loss prevention. More information on Saw Palmetto for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Women on oral contraceptives or hormone therapy should not take Saw Palmetto.

Nettle Root Extract

Nettles are rich in vitamins A and C, several key minerals and lipids that can be beneficial to the hair. Nettle Root Extract has been used successfully in Europe as an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase in treating BPH.

Rosemary and Sage

Rosemary and sage are two herbs that have shown benefit traditionally when used externally. Boil together in water rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock. Then strain the loose herbs from the liquid and use the liquid to wash the hair daily.

Jojoba Oil

If you are predisposed to seborrhea, eczema, psoriasis, or dandruff, you could consider using jojoba oil. Mexicans and southwestern Native American nations have used jojoba oil traditionally for centuries to promote hair growth and the control of dandruff. Jojoba oil is great for hypoallergenic skin because it is a great moisturizer and mimics the scalp’s own sebum.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used by Native Americans, Indians and many in the Caribbean to promote healthy hair and prevent hair loss. Aloe’s can help the scalp by healing it and balancing the pH level of the scalp while cleansing the pores. A common preparation of Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefit.

Henna

Henna is a traditional Indian herb that acts as a natural conditioner and is excellent for the maintenance of healthy hair. It can help heal the hair shaft by repairing and sealing the cuticle, protecting hair against breakage and loss of shine.

Polysorbate-80

Polysorbate-80 is an FDA approved surfactant that is also approved as a food additive. Although not proven, Polysorbate-80 is said to remove deposits of DHT and cholesterol from the scalp. Polysorbate-80 is being recommended by some naturopathic practitioners as an application for the scalp approximately 15 minutes prior to shampooing.

Cleansing and Detoxification

Cleansing should be a major part of your regimen to maintain and grow hair. Many scalp related diseases are directly the result of toxemia, while toxins in the body adversely affecting the body’s systems indirectly affect other conditions. Cleansing can be performed through oral means regularly and occasionally by ***** or colonic irrigation.

More remedies for detoxification

Psyllium husk

Fiber is vital to cleansing, and most North American diets are deficient in natural fiber. Psyllium husk is a bulking laxative agent that can be used to safely move waste through the colon. Psyllium is a very good substance as it gently scrubs the walls of the colon to remove waste that is stuck to the walls.

Exercise

Finally, although exercise does absolutely nothing directly to grow hair, most holistic practitioners recommend it. Exercising can improve blood flow, the delivery of oxygen to the cells of the body, and help the digestion of foods, all things that aid the health of hair follicles.

Disclaimer: The advice here is not presented from a medical practitioner. Any and all dietary and medical planning should be made under the guidance of your own medical and health practitioners. This information does not replace medical advice from a professional physician.