Baldness is one of the most common problems encountered by men especially as they start to age. Alopecia is the medical term for baldness; this is characterized by gradual thinning of the hairline which may develop during puberty and worsens as you mature. There are a lot of reasons that contribute to the loss of hair; some may develop due to genetic factors, some as a result of chemotherapeutic medication, while some could be a sign of an underlying hormonal problem.
According to hair experts and health professionals, DHT or dihydrotestosterone is the main culprit for having alopecia. When DHT is increased, follicular production is decreased. Hence, the growth of new hair is inhibited. For this reason, it is believed that lowering the level of DHT would promote re-growth of hair follicles. There are many drugs that are used to treat alopecia; however some may still opt the traditional way of correcting the problem because of its cost-efficiency. Below are the top five herbs which are used as alternative treatment against hair loss:
1. Saw Palmetto extract
The use of Saw Palmetto has been found to lower dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is a precursor to the gradual reduction of hair follicles. Saw Palmetto has an anti-androgenic property which lowers the level of DHT hence inhibiting hair loss.
2. Nettle Root Extract
In Europe, this is popularly known as alternative medicine in treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Research shows that there is a link between hair loss and prostate problem. Moreover, Nettle root is a very good source of retinol and ascorbic acid. These two minerals are important lipids that stimulate follicular production and hair re-growth.
3. Aloe Vera
Indians and Native Americans have long been using aloe vera as treatment for their hair. By massaging aloe vera extract combined with coconut milk into the scalp, it cleanses the pores and nourishes the hair shaft. Because of this proven effect, many shampoo manufacturers are using aloe vera for the production of a hair loss treatment.
4. Henna
This is a native Indian herb which is used as hair conditioner. Henna strengthens and repairs damaged hair while it seals the cuticle to prevent hair fall. It also promotes production of natural scalp oil which protects hair from split-ends and loss of shine.
5. Essential oils
Using essential oils for routine scalp massage is effective for preventing hair loss and promoting healthy hair. The combination of lavender extract, sesame oil and almond oil nourish the scalp and enhances follicular production.
Alopecia secondary to the long-term use of chemotherapeutic medication can be permanent in some people. Others may have hair re-growth a few months after chemotherapy but the new hair may have different texture, consistency and color. This condition is called lanugo. It is manifested by the growth of hair like that of a newborn and it rarely grows long. Using alternative medication for this kind of hair loss may never be that effective. However, using the above-mentioned herbs does not produce major adverse effects.
The Australian Institute of Hair Restoration is headed by Dr. Ahnsup Andrew Kim. He has a team of highly-skilled hair transplant technicians who address the needs of their clients after a thorough consultation. They operate in various locations in Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra.
