Hair
Loss
Partial
or complete hair loss is called alopecia. It
usually occurs on the scalp, but can also occur elsewhere
on the body, including the eyebrows. The patterns of
alopecia can vary, as well.
The
most common type of hair loss is called male pattern
baldness, also known as hereditary alopecia or
androgenic alopecia, meaning it is more common
in men and is usually inherited. In this condition,
hair is lost from the crown and temples and is often
replaced by a more fine, downy type of hair. Female-pattern
baldness, a variation of hereditary alopecia, can
also strike women, especially after menopause. The incidence
of female-pattern baldness is on the rise.
Another
form of hair loss, known as alopecia areata,
refers to a sudden loss of circular areas of hair for
no apparent reason or as a result of systemic disease.
Alopecia universallis is another type of hair
loss, in this case of hair over the entire body. This
condition usually corrects itself, but it is prone to
recurrences.
What To Consider
Hair
loss can occur due to low thyroid functioning, poor
digestion, parasites, nutrient deficiencies such as
iron or biotin, hormonal problems, aging, trauma, post-pregnancy,
skin disease, diabetes, chemotherapy, and stress. All
of these factors must be considered and ruled out to
be sure hair loss is not part of a more serious, underlying
condition.
Caution
If you begin to lose large amounts of hair suddenly
and for no apparent reason, seek prompt medical attention
to rule out the possibility of an underlying disease.
Self-Care Tips
Diet
Eat an organic, whole foods diet high in potato (with
skins intact), green and red peppers, sprouts, and unpeeled
cucumbers. Such foods are high in silica, which gives
strength to hair and nails. Foods high in iron, such
as some lean meats and raisins, are also important.
Sea vegetables such as kelp are also good for the hair
and support proper thyroid function. Be sure to check
for and eliminate any foods to which you may be allergic
or sensitive.
Nutritional
Supplementation
The following supplements are essential for healthy
hair growth: flaxseed oil, biotin, niacin, vitamin B
complex, folic acid, biotin, vitamin B5, PABA (para-aminobenzoic
acid), silica, iron, trace minerals, and zinc. Free
form amino acids, especially cysteine, can also be helpful,
as can kelp tablets, dessicated liver, and thyroid glandulars.
Although elevated levels of copper can lead to brittle
hair and split ends, low copper levels can also result
in hair loss, and should therefore also be considered.
Aromatherapy
For temporary or severe hair loss, massage lavender,
rosemary, thyme, or sage essential oils directly onto
the scalp.
Ayurveda
The Ayurvedic herbs ashwagandha and amla
can help stimulate hair growth in cases that are not
due to genetic predisposition.
Herbs
Massage
the scalp nightly with an oil made of one part rosemary
oil and two parts almond oil.
Homeopathy
Sepia, Arnica, and Acidum nit. Are useful
homeopathic remedies
Juice
Therapy
Drink the combined juice of carrot, beet, spinach,
nettle, and alfalfa, adding a bit of onion.
Topical
Treatment
Rub castor oil into the scalp for ten minutes, then
apply a hot damp towel for 30 minutes, and then cover
your head with a plastic shower cap and keep in place
overnight. The next morning, wash out your hair. Do
this for two nights, then, repeat this using extra virgin
olive oil for two nights, then use wheat germ oil for
two nights. Rest one night and repeat seven-day cycle.
Apple
cider vinegar used as a hair rinse can also help stimulate
hair growth.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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