4 natural remedies for hair loss

Hair loss can affect anyone. That's why we're giving you a variety of chemical-free tips that you should take to heart when it comes to hair loss: from the correct diet to powerful natural remedies.

Many-sided causes of hair loss

Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause, can reduce hair density. Thyroid disorders, certain medications or iron deficiency can also trigger hair loss. Stress, incorrect hair care with questionable surfactants or a low-nutrient diet are additional causes. Genetic reasons can cause hair to fall out, especially in men but also in women.

Hair loss is a natural process. However, anyone losing more than 100 hairs a day for several weeks or if bald spots appear should contact a dermatologist for a hair consultation. If thyroid conditions and genetic causes can be ruled out, hair can be strengthened with the correct diet.

No deficiency? Beautiful hair from the inside

A lack of iron or biotin can contribute to hair loss. A doctor’s prescription for a full blood panel can rule out nutritional deficiencies. If iron values are too low, for example, dietary supplements can be sought from the pharmacy.

A well-balanced diet can also treat hair loss from the inside, strengthening the hair and leaving it shiny. For this, zinc, iron, vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B5 (panthenol), silicon and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important nutrients.

Seafood, fish, oat flakes and nuts, such as peanut and Brazil nuts, contain a particularly high amount of zinc. Wheat bran is considered to be one of the best sources of iron in cereal products, even better than oat flakes. Pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds also contain iron. Vitamin B7 or biotin is found in oat flakes and nuts (peanuts and walnuts), as well as in wholemeal products and bananas. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is also found in many wholemeal products, as well as in eggs, rice, nuts and avocados. Omega-3 fatty acids are supplied by camelina oil, linseed oil, hemp oil, walnut oil, linseed and fish, such as mackerel, herring and salmon.

You can also sport a healthier, stronger mane with natural remedies. Here are some herbal power substances.

Go head to head with hair loss using these five natural remedies

1. Sandalwood

A study published in Nature Magazine in 2018 showed a prolonged growth phase of hair during treatment with sandalwood oil.

2. Rosemary

According to a study, rosemary has been shown to promote hair growth, cell metabolism and the supply of nutrients to the hair root. Carnosolic acid contained in rosemary also combats free radicals, which are presumably involved in hair loss.

3. Burdock root

The main active ingredients of the burdock root are arctinol and lappaphene. Both substances contain elements that are similar to hair and, therefore, can strengthen the hair structure. The Herbal Medicinal Product Committee (HMPC) rates burdock root as traditional medicine. This means that although the effects described are based on many years of experience, they have not yet been proven by scientific studies.

4. Stinging nettle In natural cosmetics, stinging nettle shampoo or hair lotion is often recommended as a remedy for hair loss. Although no conclusive studies are yet available on the efficacy, certain ingredients of stinging nettle stimulate blood circulation. If the scalp is well supplied with blood, the hair roots can be optimally supplied with nutrients that support hair growth.

Links to other websites:

- Study in Nature Magazine about the benefits of sandalwood

- Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia

- The Herbal Medicinal Product Committee (HMPC) on burdoc root