Thinning hair is often caused by an underlying problem – which could be hormonal- such as an under functioning thyroid gland, imbalance with female and male hormones, poor nutrient absorption and a lack of essential nutrients. If you are experiencing unusual amounts of hair loss or sustained hair loss, please consult with your naturopathic physician to get to the root of the problem (proper diagnosis) and natural treatment.
Listed below are a few natural solutions you can try for hair loss
1. FOOD FOR THE HAIR – Remember your hair, skin and nails are the luxuries for the body, hence you have an abundance of all when you eat right and treat your body right. Sudden dieting with severe caloric restriction will cause significant weight loss but will also cause significant and severe hair loss. Skipping meals will do the same overtime especially breakfasts and lunches, which consist of the bulk of the food for the day. Its is very important to nourish the hair – with the right nutrients and proteins. HAVE A DIET THAT IS RICH IN GOOD SOURCES OF PROTEIN AND MINERALS. Good sources of vegetarian protein include fermented soy products, lentils, legumes and beans. Consider supplementing if you find it hard to have adequate sources of good minerals and proteins regularly.
2. MASSAGE YOUR SCALP FREQUENTLY – Various aromatherapy oils are available such as rosemary oil, which is great to improve circulation in the scalp and lavender oil, which is very relaxing for the scalp, when applied regularly will be beneficial for hair growth. Cedar wood oil is another one which is great for hair growth too. Other Ayurvedic oils such as brahmi, bhringraj and amla are great for cooling the scalp, decreasing hair loss and early graying and stimulating hair growth when applied regularly.
3. CONTROL STRESS – Stress can cause significant hair loss suddenly. Stress tightens you scalp muscles, which can inhibit blood circulation to your scalp. Relaxation, stress management, scalp massage and yoga along with meditation and deep breathing exercises are helpful. Its important however to get the root cause of the problem in order to resolve the hair loss issue completely.
4. GET MOVING – Aerobic exercise 30 – 40 minutes 3 – 4 times a week is a great way to relieve tension and improve blood circulation to the whole body, especially the extremities. A cold wet towel on the head for a minute after showering may also help to increase circulation to the scalp, just make sure you stay indoors until the scalp dries, as you do not want to catch a cold with the cold wet towel either.
5. HAIR GROWTH SHAMPOO – Essential oils in shampoos will help to stimulate hair growth as well. Rosemary, thyme and lavender are all excellent choices for this purpose. Keep the shampoo on for at least 3 minutes before rinsing it out.
By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.