Hair loss is a common problem for many men and even women. Whether caused by bad genes, medical conditions, or even just the natural aging process, hair loss has prompted a number of treatments designed to both stop the occurrence and replace the hair that has been lost. These treatments range from transplant surgery to medications to beauty products. Some treatments are not viable options for many people, and others prefer to use more natural, alternative treatments. Different alternative treatments for hair loss include enhanced diet, vitamins, and herbs.
Dietary inclusions are popular alternative treatments for hair loss. Increasing the intake of certain foods does not cause extra hair to suddenly start growing, but it can make the hair a person has healthier and improve the condition of the scalp. The recommended diet has high protein levels but low amounts of carbohydrates and fat. Nuts and fish can increase a person's intake of essential fatty acids such as omega 3.
Some vitamins and minerals can be obtained from the diet, and some come in supplement form. Iron, for example, is found in green vegetables such as spinach, while vitamin B12 is in eggs and meat. Biotin, on the other hand, although present in foods such as liver and eggs, is available in such small amounts that a supplement form is the recommended source instead. Other minerals such as zinc and copper are essential but should not be taken in greater amounts than what normally is available in a multivitamin.
There are numerous plant and fruit extracts that may work as alternative treatments for hair loss. Green tea is thought to help treat hair loss due to its antioxidant properties and because it may inhibit the hormone activity that may trigger the problem. Aloe vera, with the gel of the plant rubbed directly onto the scalp, can stimulate hair growth. The flesh of red peppers works on the scalp too. It is believed to stimulate the cells of the scalp by acting as a skin irritant that subsequently prompts the immune system to initiate the release of histamines, the chemical involved in allergic responses.
This reaction of the immune system is thought to both draw nutrients to the scalp and improve circulation, encouraging hair growth. Other plants and fruits recommended as alternative treatments for hair loss include saw palmetto, taken in supplements or used in shampoo; apple cider vinegar, applied as a rinse; and ginger, taken in tea or used as a hair tonic. Licorice, horsetail, and nettle are other useful ingredients. Even though alternative treatments for hair loss come from natural sources, a doctor should still be consulted before any are used on a regular basis, especially if the patient is being treated with other forms of therapy.