Hair follicles are responsible for hair production, and the quality of these follicles determines hair thickness and overall health. One of the most common causes of hair thinning is a reduction in the number of active hair follicles, which can be influenced by a variety of factors. Thinning hair affects both men and women and can be deeply distressing. Sometimes the reason for thinning hair strands can’t be found, but the causes usually include:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Hereditary
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Medications
- Poor kidney function
- Poor diet
- High stress levels
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Illness
It's a good thing that there are many natural treatments available to help with thinning hair and boost hair health.
Home Remedies for Hair Loss
You can make your own leave-in treatment to achieve a healthy scalp. Combine a few drops of aloe vera, Indian gooseberry oil or lemon oil with almond oil, coconut oil, or any carrier oil of your choice, and then massage it into your scalp. Leave it for at least 30 minutes and rinse off.
Source: Femina
Naturopathy Nurtures Hair Growth
A naturopath may suggest dietary changes that promote hair growth and build strong hair follicles. Decreasing inflammatory foods, such as saturated fats and dairy, may help. A healthy diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, such as unpeeled potatoes and cucumbers, will provide you with key nutrients to keep your scalp and hair healthy. An increase in your intake of folic acid, zinc, Vitamin C, silica and biotin may be suggested. Many women whose hair loss is caused by hormonal imbalance have success taking saw palmetto. Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can also promote healthy scalp hair. They can be found in foods like salmon, walnuts and flaxseed oil.
Acupuncture Helps With Alopecia
Alopecia, hair loss, and thinning hair can all be improved with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. By increasing blood flow, your acupuncturist will aim to improve kidney function and build Qi, both of which are important in achieving thicker hair.
Ayurvedic Head Massage Promotes Hair Growth
A traditional Indian head massage using Bhringaraj or Brahmi oil helps stimulate circulation and hair growth. Your ayurvedic practitioner may also prescribe herbs such as ashwagandha and amla.
Aromatherapy Stimulates the Scalp
Your aromatherapist may use a blend of oils that may include rosemary, lavender, sage, thyme or cedar wood. A gentle scalp massage using these oils will increase blood circulation and reduce stress as you relax and absorb the gentle aroma of these oils.
Homoeopathy for Healthy Hair
Homoeopathic treatments for hair loss may include fluoric acid, lycopodium, selenium and tissue salts that target the hair shafts, making them thicker and stronger.
Yoga Promotes Scalp Flexibility
There are many asanas (yoga poses) that promote scalp flexibility and circulation. Yoga also helps reduce stress, which is a common cause of thinning hair.
Try not to despair about your hair. A healthy head of hair is attainable. It’s simply a matter of finding the right combination of treatments for you.
Before trying any of the above-mentioned natural therapies for hair loss, consult with a qualified healthcare professional, and be consistent with your preferred treatment course, as well as in using natural products made with all natural ingredients.
Originally published on Apr 30, 2011
