HAIR LOSS

An average of 50-100 hairs lost per day is defined as normal.   Many historical references as well as small scale studies show that there are ways to slow down or even slightly reverse hair loss.

You must identify the likely cause of hair loss in order to treat it effectively.  This article discusses different causes of hair loss as well as provides many tips on how to maximize your hair health.

The hormonal link. There is a strong hormonal link to hair loss.  Male Pattern Baldness is caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances.  It is believed that the over production of a type of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible.  High cholesterol, certain nutritional deficiencies (ex. Zinc)  and prostate problems happen to correlate with high DHT.

Menopause may affect hair loss in a manner similar to the hormonal pattern experienced by men.   Low estrogen levels often correlate with high DHT.  This plays a role in the facial hair growth elderly women may experience.  Thyroid imbalances, common to menopausal women, can also affect hair quality.   Iodine deficiency may cause premature graying, dryness and stringy hair.  Because of sudden changes in hormone levels, both the withdrawal from the Birth Control Pill and the end of childbirth can bring on temporary hair loss. 

Herbal and nutritional support can help balance hormones and indirectly address hair loss.

The stress link! Stress indirectly causes hair loss by tiring out your “stress glands” called the adrenals.  The adrenals are responsible for producing estrogen, especially after menopause.  If they are exhausted then estrogen levels will be low and this may cause DHT to be excessive.  Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine and nicotine will compound the stress of the adrenals.

Good circulation is key.   Hair relies on nutrients for its survival.  High stress can cause secretion of hormones that cause constriction of your blood vessels. Important nutrients are cut off from the hair roots. Dandruff also prevents circulating nutrients from getting to the hair.

Chronic hair conditions.  Dandruff and excessive sebum (natural hair oils) can build up on the scalp.  They prevent nutrients from getting to the hair, deregulate the acid balance of the scalp, cause inflammation and harbor bacterial growth. 

Nurture your Hair. Nutritional deficiencies (for example, B vitamins, proteins, vitamin A, Zinc, Silica, PABA, Sulfur, potassium, iron, vitamins C and E) can impair hair quality and make it more prone to breaking, splitting or falling.  High salt intake has been linked to hair loss in one study.    Diuretics such as coffee, pop and fruit juices can cause the loss of important nutrients needed for healthy hair. Essential Fatty Acid deficiencies can cause dry brittle and falling hair.

 Foods to feed your hair. The following foods are high in nutrients necessary for hair health: carrots, cucumbers, spinach, alfalfa juice, watercress, parsnips, oats, beans, sea salt, seaweeds, garlic and onions. The herbs nettles and horsetail are also very beneficial. Topically, many essential oils help increase blood circulation to the scalp.   

Choose hair products with care. Forget about the name of products and read the ingredients.  Commercial shampoos, especially antidandruff ones, cause mineral loss due to harsh chemicals that strip away natural oils. 

Avoid cosmetics with any of the following:  Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens; diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA); Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea; Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate; Petrolium; Propylene Glycol; PVP/VA Copolymer; Stearalkonium Chloride; synthetic colors; Synthetic Fragrances. 

Look for shampoos with the following ingredients:  Panthenol (B5), Keratin, Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Safflower Oil, Burdock, Chamomile, Chaparral, Horsetail, Nettles, Rosemary, Sage and Polysorbate 80. Use products with a PH 5.5. 

Avoid commercial products.  Commercial hair sprays, gels and styling mousse as they are loaded with harmful chemicals including known carcinogens.  Try products such as Aubrey Organics, Druide, Nature’s Blends, Afrikan Beauty’s, African Formula Products, Inc., and Life in the Wood.  These are only available in health food stores.  In my experience there are no comparable products in drug stores. 

TIPS FOR HAIR HEATLH

• The following foods are high in nutrients necessary for hair health:
  • Carrots, cucumbers, spinach, alfalfa juice, watercress, parsnips
  • Nettle and Horsetail herbs (make a tea)
  • Bea pollen (caution for allergies)
  • Seaweeds and sea salt in moderation
  • onions, garlic and beans (sulfur)
  • nettles and oats (silica)
  • Rosemary & sage

RECIPES FOR HAIR

• 1 oz ground Rosemary

• 1 oz horsetail

• 2 oz ground Sage

• ½ oz ground Nettles

• 2 oz cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 diced onion

• 1 pint ethyl alcohol, 100 proof Vodka or pure alcohol diluted with 20% distilled water

• 1 oz olive oil

• 1 oz castor oil

• 1 oz water

• 1 oz apple cider vinegar (if dandruff is problem)

Steep herbs in alcohol for 1 week.  Strain several times through a layer of fine cloth or nylon stocking until free of particles.   Add the water, oils and vinegar (optional). Use this hair lotion before bed or 15 minutes before shampooing.  Expect results within 5 weeks of consistent use.

Feel free to add 2-3 drops of any of the following essential oils to the above recipe.

• Clary Sage – dissolves sebum deposits

• Lavender – regulates acid mantle of scalp

• Eucalyptus –decreases inflammation

• Cajuput and Tea Tree –antibacterial for dandruff

 ** Prarie Naturals product WHITE LIGHTENING is quite similar (available at Noah’s health food store)

APPLIE CIDER VINEGAR

• common folk remedy to normalize scalp pH and oil glands
• high acidity destroys bacteria in severe scalp conditions
• Directions: Part hair and apply 2 tbsp directly to scalp with a cotton ball.  Wait 15 minutes – 3 hours before shampooing. Repeat Daily.  May use 1/3 cup per quart of water for after shampoo rinse. 

ESSENTIAL OILS

• Eos easily absorb into deeper layers of skin where new cells are generated.  Most stimulate circulation.
• General recipe:
  • 10 drops of essential oil
    • Clary Sage – dissolves sebum deposits
    • Lavender – regulates acid mantle of scalp
    • Eucalyptus – regulates sebum, decreases inflammation and cleans
    • Cajuput and Tea Tree – disinfectant and antibacterial for dandruff
  • 1 oz carrier oil
    • Jojoba – resembles skins own natural sebum; hypoallergenic; contains scalp nutrients; good for dry and oily hair; absorbs well into skin layers.

CAYENNE PEPPER HAIR TONIC

• increases blood flow and histamine release to stimulate cell division
• mix 4 oz cayenne pepper in 1 pint alcohol (see above)

ALOE VERA GEL

Use whole leaf product with standard mucopolysaccharides listed on ingredients.