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Hair loss prevention
Hair is made of the protein kerotin, the same substance found in nails and skin. Each hair rises out of a bulb-like follicle and goes through a cycle of growth for up to five years. It then stops growing and goes into a period of rest, after which it falls out and a new hair starts to grow.
Hair loss can be caused by a number of factors, some of which are circulation, stress, hormonal changes and nutrition. Of course the toughest factor to overcome is genetics.
People experiencing genetic hair loss are believed to have more hormone receptors in the area where balding occurs. One male hormone that is converted from testosterone is called dihydrotestosterone, (DHT). This damages hair follicles, gradually causing the hair to become finer and growth cycles to become shorter. Conversion of healthy male hormones to the unwanted DHT also plays a role in prostate enlargement, so the two conditions are linked.
At least half of all American men experience some hair loss by age 45. Pattern baldness occurs in women, but women have much lower levels of DHT so they are more likely to experience thinning hair. Female hair loss is linked to the adrenal glands. Once hair follicles die and a person has been bald for a while it becomes impossible to revive the follicles and reverse the process.
Naturopathic physicians use Saw Palmetto, horsetail, corn silk, rosemary and nettle to help slow down hormone effects. Rosemary, nettle and horsetail encourage hair growth by promoting blood circulation to the scalp and unclogging the pores so the nutrients from the herbs can get to the hair follicle easily. These herbs are food for the hair.
Women with thinning hair can benefit from using herbs that work on the adrenal glands such as Siberian ginseng, astragalas and licorice. If you decide to take any of these herbs in capsule form, please consult with your physician first.
CAUTION:
Licorice - should not be taken by pregnant women, overweight people with edema, high blood pressure or heart problems, women with, or those with a family history of estrogenic dependent breast cancer. Too much licorice can cause headaches and can have serious potential side effects. Astragulas has no known side effects and has been studied by The Cancer Society. It is known to boost the immune system and help restore energy. Siberian ginseng also has no known side effects. Moderation is key. So check with your physician first.
Vitamins, minerals and amino acids are a critical part of healthy hair and keeping that hair. Hair growth is slow and the process takes time. Some improvement can be seen in 4 to 6 weeks or can take as long as 6 months, depending on the person. So be patient and keep your expectations reasonable.
Hair loss prevention summary:
- shampoo regularly
- limit damage to hair from blow drying, over exposure to the sun, harsh hair care products and treatments. Coloring or bleaching.
- Use a natural bristle brush, wide toothed comb, to save wear and tear.
- Eat a healthy diet
- Take a good multivitamin
- Massage your scalp regularly
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