Most people experience some level of hair thinning or hair loss in their lifetime.
In many cases, such as following pregnancy or illness, hair will start to regrow on its own.
However, it can also become a longer-term issue.
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There’s no shortage of products that claim to grow or thicken hair.
Research suggests natural options such as certain herbs may also help regrow hair.
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What Causes Hair Loss or Thinning?
Some hair loss (alopecia) is described as scarring, which means hair follicles are permanently destroyed.
Focal hair loss is typically the result of an autoimmune disorder calledalopecia areata.
Diffuse hair loss can occur for many reasons, including:
Do Herbs Help With Hair Loss?
If you take them, discuss complementary treatments with a medical professional.
Even natural ingredients can interact with drugs.
It also helps promote good sleep, which can help you recover from illness.
Red clover has not been proven to benefit any health condition.
Avoid red clover supplements if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
However, research into stinging nettle and hair growth is lacking.
Rosemary
Research suggests thatrosemary oil may help promote hair growth.
Ginseng
Ginsenghelps regulate the expression and activity of proteins involved in hair-cycling phases.
This suggests it may stimulate hair growth and help prevent hair loss.
Aloe Vera
Topicalaloe veralotion treatsseborrheic dermatitis, which can lead to hair loss.
A Word From Verywell
Although more research is needed, castor oil may help with hair growth.
The unpleasant odor was the most common side effect.
However, more research is needed.
Green Tea
Green teais packed with healthy antioxidants and has long been used for medicinal purposes.
Moringa
Moringaseeds are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Seed extracts have antibacterial properties and help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Are Herbal Hair Treatments Right for You?
People have been using herbal hair treatments for a long time.
And what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.
Also, while many are safe, some can cause unwanted side effects.
Beware of hair growth products that promise quick or amazing results.
Many can interact with medications or be harmful when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Using herbal shampoos, rinses, and other topical treatments may be the safest option.
Hair Growth Tips
In some cases, changing your hairstyle may help.
Summary
Research suggests that some herbs,essential oils, and natural products may help promotehair growth.
For the most part, though, large-scale controlled studies on humans are lacking.
Most people can safely use topical herbal products on the scalp and hair.
But there’s some risk of scalp irritation or an allergic reaction.
Herbal or other dietary supplements taken orally can interfere with medications or cause unintended side effects.
If you have hair loss, consult with a healthcare provider.
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