Tag Archives: hair

Natural Solutions For Hair Loss

Healthy Me, ,

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.

Healthy Hair For The Winter

Healthy Me,

1. Use Shampoo wisely

Hot water, strong shampoos and hair products can damage and dry out your hair quickly, hence go for more moisturizing and nourishing shampoos that will help lock in the moisture. I have found Aloe Vera shampoos and conditioners to be great for moisture. Tea tree oil shampoos and conditioners are great for keeping the itch in your scalp at bay. Also try washing your hair with warm water rather than shocking and burning your follicles with hot scalding water.

2. Drink enough water

Usually in this weather, depending on your constitution, most people find it hard to drink much water and this can dramatically effect the moisture in your hair. So don’t skimp on the water, try to get as much as you would in summer – at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces. If you like teas, you can drink more peppermint / chamomile tea or ginger tea.

3. Eat well

You are what you eat and eventually what you absorb from it, hence eat a balanced diet. Root vegetables are abundant in this season – eat seasonal vegetables that are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Try to have at least 3 different colored vegetables per sitting. Walnuts, sesame seeds, almonds are a must.

4. Get your 8 hours of sleep each night and try to keep the stress away by getting gentle exercise daily or by practicing yoga and meditation.

By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.