Hair loss is a problem that affects millions of Americans. Male-pattern-baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men. However, this is not only a problem for men; woman and children can also be affected due to several reasons.

The Causes

There is a large variety of reason why some people experience hair loss. Stress and illness can affect temporary hair loss. The hormone imbalances due to pregnancy and childbirth can also cause hair loss. It’s important to understand that pregnancy induced hair loss is generally temporary so you can expect hair to start growing again after the child is born.

It’s also common knowledge that chemotherapy treatments can also cause the loss of one’s hair. Family ties can be partly to blame with some forms of hair loss. There is some scientific evidence that supports the idea that male-pattern-baldness is hereditary and a product of lineage. It’s best to talk to a doctor about your specific circumstances, so he can recommend the right treatment for you.

Treatments

Hair replacement is a very popular treatment option, with men. This is where hair follicles are taken from the back of the scalp and transplanted to the top of the scalp and hairline. For many people, surgery isn’t the best option. In these cases there are numerous productions available that can help. One of the most popular options is Rogaine (minoxidil). While Rogaine was originally developed as a high blood pressure medication, a known side effect was the re-growth of hair.

Since it wasn’t very effect at treating high blood pressure, it was remarketed as a treatment for hair loss. Propecia (finasteride) is another popular option. Originally developed to treat prostate issues, it was also determined to be more effective at stimulating hair growth. Since every patent is different it’s importance to talk to your physician before starting any treatment program.

Herbs are always favored by people as it supports the body’s natural healing mechanism without causing drastic side effects and problems. Herbal medicines are always been looked forward to as it brings hope to many people. The remedies include, increase in circulation, purifying the scalp and stimulating hair growth. It would take some time for the hair to grow but the effect is wonderful.

Here are few suggestions on how herbs can prevent the fall of hair and promote growth. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules with which to use.

Green tea- It is believed to be effective in preventing and treating male pattern type baldness. You can either drink several cups of green tea each day or take it in the form of capsules.

Rinsing hair with apple cider vinegar and sage tea helps hair growth.

Aloe and birch leaves are excellent blood and skin cleaners which promotes in the growth of hair. Regular use of aloe vera gel is very effective when rubbed into the scalp and hair each night. The gel when mixed with wheat germ oil and coconut milk can also be used as a shampoo. This is particular effective for those suffering from male pattern type baldness.

Rosemary essential oil, a few drops rubbed into the scalp several times a week, repairs the damage, increases hair growth, and improves hair texture.

Rubbing the scalp with half an onion before washing hair encourages hair growth.

Other essential oils which improve hair growth and reduce hair loss include lavender oil, lemon oil, thyme oil, sage oil, jojoba oil and carrot seed oil.

Red pepper acts as a good promoter for hair growth. It draws blood and nutrients to the scalp and stimulates the growth of hair.

Henna is a traditional Indian herb that acts as a natural conditioner and is excellent for the maintenance of healthy hair.

Hair loss is treated in Ayurveda with a combination of diet, herbs, oil massage, meditation, aromatherapy, breathing and yoga as they believe hair loss is related to the balance of mind-body constitution.

Massage the hair with vitamin E oil as this may prevent or slow down the hair loss. You can also rub some coconut oil on your scalp and on the soles of your feet at bedtime. Keep in mind that massaging the scalp in general for a couple of minutes a day can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles.

Eat a handful of white sesame seeds every morning as they contain a lot of calcium and magnesium and take some yogurt everyday.

Eat adequate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, natural and lightly processed foods as often as possible. Following a nutritious diet is essential for good healthy hair.

Last but not the least exercising can improve blood flow, the delivery of oxygen to the cells of the body, and help the digestion of foods, all things that aid the health of hair follicles.