Win the Fight against Hair Loss

Some hair loss is natural but factors such as stress, malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies, scalp infections, climate change, pollution, fatigue, hormonal imbalance and others can cause hair loss.

Win the Fight against Hair Loss
Anurag Khare
Last Updated : Feb 15 2018 | 3:46 PM IST
Some hair loss is natural but factors such as stress, malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies, scalp infections, climate change, pollution, fatigue, hormonal imbalance and others can cause hair loss which is greater than normal. There are around 100,000 hair follicles on an adult scalp out of which the scalp loses around 100 each day but the same grow back in the next 5-6 weeks. Along with the basics like healthy diet and proper protection some natural remedies can also help both slow down and stop hair fall by strengthening one’s capillary system. Mentioned below are some natural, proven and hair-friendly solutions to tackle hair fall and hair loss.

Dietary supplement of Zinc - Zinc is a powerful antioxidant that contributes to hair growth. Zinc deficiency can also be a reason for hair loss and a dry scalp. Food articles such as oysters, wheat germ and whole grains, sesame and squash seeds are rich in mineral zinc and thus should be included in daily diet. One can also resort to supplementation with a dietary supplement but by limiting the maximum intake to 40 mg per day so as not to cause a copper deficiency.

Sulfur - Sulfur is a micro-nutrient that is involved in the formulation of two natural amino acids namely cysteine and methionine. Thus it strengthens the hairs and the nails and contributes to the health of the skin. It is the second most primary constituent of the hair after amino acids (proteins). It is found in garlic, egg, meat, onion, fish and seafood. One may also increase sulfur intake through supplements available in pharmacies.

Mustard oil - The mustard oil is traditionally used to promote hair regrowth. The oil is very popular throughout India for its toning and stimulating virtues. Rich in erucic acid, this oil helps to lengthen the lengths, nourish the hair and stimulates the microcirculation of the scalp, thus promoting hair regrowth. One may use mustard oil available in pharmacies as a hair lotion, mask or add it to shampoo. One may also use mustard oil locally on the scalp.

Horsetail herbal tea - Horsetail plant is rich in silica, iron and selenium thus it helps to fortify the integuments and also promote growth. In 1 litre of cold water, add about four teaspoons of dry plant and boil. Infuse this preparation for ten minutes then filter it. Drink 1 cup morning, noon and night after meals until symptoms improve. One can take three weeks of the said treatment several times a year, especially at the change of season when the hair tends to fall more easily.

Spirulina - Spirulina is a freshwater microalgae which is ranked among the super foods for its exceptional content of macro and micro nutrients. Rich in protein, iron and silica, Spirulina can help strengthen the structure of the hair and also aid synthesis of keratin, the main constituent of the integuments and the superficial layer of the epidermis. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon per day of powdered spirulina on salads, raw vegetables or soup on a daily basis.

Nettle leaves - The nettle plant is beneficial in the case of hair loss. Nettle leaves are re-mineralising; they are rich in vitamins of group B, minerals such as magnesium and trace elements such as copper, zinc, sulfur, silica, iron and more. All these vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients for hair growth. In 1 litre of cold water, add 4 tablespoons of nettle leaves and boil then turn off the heat and let the contains infuse for 10 minutes. Filter and use the infusion to vigorously massage the scalp twice a day.

Beer yeast - The Brewer's yeast is one of the food articles which is richest in vitamin B. Vitamin B is pro-growth and important for vitality of hair. Some other foods items are also rich in B vitamins such as pulses, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, pollen, wheat germ, seaweed and more. It is advisable to eat every day fresh fruits and vegetables to allow filling up of the body with vitamins of the group B. Brewer's yeast is available as a powder, capsule or tablet in pharmacies; one will need to follow the dosage.



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