The marvels of modern medical technology have seen the rise in production of many effective drugs and surgical procedures to treat hair loss problems and diseases. However, the treatment of hair loss is not only limited to these drugs and procedures – anyone who suffers from any form of hair loss has other options in the form of natural herbal supplements.

Individuals who have chosen to go the “natural way” have undergone changes in their lifestyle that do not only involve exercises but also their diets. These individuals avoid the intake of saturated fats, replacing processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables. They have decided to choose to have a healthy and well balanced diet that is low in fats and high in fiber.

This change in lifestyle does not only benefit the natural growth of hair, but the entire body as well. A great benefit from switching to a more balanced and healthier diet is the prevention of hair loss that results from genetic factors and aging. The right kinds of herbs are beneficial to hair as long as they are taken consistently. Herbs increase the circulation of blood in the scalp and also act as a disinfectant. An improvement in hair condition does not occur overnight, but with regular use of herbal supplements, a difference in hair thickness, shine, and volume may be noticed. The following natural herbal supplements are some of the sources for hair supplements and may be useful in treating hair loss:

• Saw Palmetto

The extracts produced from the berries of this plant, native to North America, contain amounts of fatty acids and sterols that block 5-Alpha-Reductase and reduce the uptake of DHT in the hair follicles.

• Boarage oil

Boarage oil has omega 3 fatty acids that, when included in the diet, can aid in the prevention of hair loss. This may also help in promoting regrowth of hair. The seeds of Boarage also has gamma linoleic acid or GLA which is an omega 6 fatty acid that can assist in the prevention of male pattern baldness.

• Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle has been utilized as a hair tonic for ages. Stinging nettle is said to stimulate the growth of new hair as well as regain hair’s natural black color. The extract from nettle roots also prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydroxitestosterone, the hormone which causes male pattern baldness.

• Green tea extract

Extracts derived from green tea also prevent the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

• Grape seeds

Grape seeds contain oligomeric proanthocyanidins or OPCs. These stimulate the growth of epithelial cells as well as check the effect of a molecule known as TGF-beta2. This molecule has a growth inhibiting effect and is produced by follicles affected by androgen.

• Apple skin

The skin of apples is a good source of natural treatment for hair loss. The skin contains procyanidin which has been shown to be having treatment capabilities for male pattern baldness.The skin of baby green apples contains the most procyanidin which can also promote hair growth.

• Black cohosh

Black cohosh may be used to regulate and control the levels of the female hormone called estrogen, thereby making it helpful in the prevention of hair loss as well as the restoration of hair.

• Licorice

Licorice is a native European herb known to be an effective treatment for hair loss.