Promote Hair Growth Using Natural Herbs
We have all heard of the effectiveness of medications in treating hair loss.
But have you ever considered using natural herbs to promote hair growth?
Since ancient times, plants have been used extensively to promote hair growth in the Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Unani traditions.
Studies have been done to explore the efficacy of various herbal extracts for hair growth.
A positive result of such studies has been observed in treating hair loss in people, including those suffering from Male Pattern Baldness.
Read along to learn about some of the most used herbs to help your hair growth journey.
Rosemary oil
Rosemary essential oil is an antioxidant used in many products to assist hair health.
Research by Panahi et al. about the pharmacology of rosemary has found the application of rosemary oil helpful in stimulating hair growth.
You can dilute a couple of drops of rosemary essential oil in any carrier oil and massage your scalp.
Carrier oils are usually vegetable oils that are used to dilute essential oils. They include coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc.
You can also add a few drops of the oil to your shampoo and conditioner to get its benefits.
Lavender oil
Lavender oil has gained popularity not just for relaxing stress and fatigue but also as one of the natural remedies for hair growth.
It has proven to be effective in a study that looked at how it can affect hair growth.
You can massage your hair by diluting the essential oil in a carrier oil of your choice, like coconut or jojoba oil.
Mixing a few drops of this oil in your hair products is another application method.
You can also try products containing lavender essential oil.
These could range from shampoo, and conditioners, to serums and oils with the extract.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba has been used for hair as well as skin for the longest time.
It is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and stimulate blood circulation.
Studies have shown that the extract of ginkgo biloba leaves has the potential to promote hair regrowth and be used as a hair tonic.
Walnut Bark
In a study, Kaushik et al. found that applying walnut oil on the scalp and massaging it is an effective treatment for hair loss.
It nourishes the hair and enhances hair growth.
Its bark is also used to treat dandruff and other scalp problems which impact hair health.
Ginseng
Ginseng has been in use for a long as a natural treatment for various conditions, including hair loss.
It has saponins, which are considered to promote hair growth by preventing the activity of 5alpha reductase.
Jatamansi or Spikenard
Jatamansi has been proven to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
The rhizome of this plant is used to stimulate hair growth and impart blackness.
It is also used as an aromatic adjunct while producing medicinal oils.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is a palm tree, and its extract is made from the berries of that tree.
It is a herbal remedy with antiandrogenic properties that block the actions of 5 alpha-reductase.
Saw palmetto has been known to be effective in stimulating hair growth.
It is available in various preparations, including hair care products and oral supplements.
Saw Palmetto is available as dried berries.
Its extract is also available in the form of tablets.
Chinese hibiscus
It is widely acknowledged that the leaves and flowers of hibiscus encourage hair growth.
It is also said to have anti-greying properties.
A study by Adhirajan et al. concluded that the extract of hibiscus leaves potentially affects hair growth.
They also added that the leaf extract exhibited more potency than the flower extract on hair growth.
It is available in hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, oil, hair masks, etc.
Other herbs
A 2009 research assessed herbal oils’ hair growth-stimulating activities.
The study included herbs like Brahmi, Methi (Fenugreek), Amla (Indian Gooseberry), and Hibiscus.
It showed that these herbs, in a concentration of 7.5%, had the potential for development as herbal alternatives to medication for hair growth.
Conclusion
Natural herbs have been used for centuries for their effectiveness in skin and hair care.
They can be a good alternative to medication if you are looking for more natural solutions for hair growth.
Some such herbs include rosemary, lavender, and hibiscus.
These can be used as hair care products like oil, shampoo, conditioner, serum, or hair mask.
It is suggested to always do a patch test before using anything new on the skin to ensure youâre not allergic.