There is a movement in today’s consumer world for all things natural. Everything from natural cosmetics to natural foods line store shelves and are bought by American shoppers. But which plant extracts slow down hair growth and can cause problems with your hair loss treatments? Here are a few to keep in mind when shopping that can really help your hair grow.
Hair loss prevention is no exception to this rule. There are many reasons why many people choose to go the all-natural route. Many believe that herbal remedies are gentler than what the doctor can prescribe. Also, some people enjoy the fact that most natural remedies don’t have as many artificial preservatives or color additives that can be found in most commercial products. Many herbal remedies available today for hair loss include a combination
of the plant extracts described below.
Ingredient #1 Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract has been used in quantities for years by herbalists to help improve the condition of the hair follicle and also the condition of the hair shaft. It is known to help the hair shaft retain moisture and protect it from environmental damage. Today, several studies show that one of its main components, azelaic acid, can inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss, by perhaps 80%.
Ingredient #2 Saw Palmetto Extract
Another common herb that has been shown to have a great effect in helping with hair growth and retention is saw palmetto. Known for years as an aid for men with prostate and urinary problems, it has also shown promise in helping to reduce the amount of DHT that gets into the area around the hair follicle. If less of the hormone is put into the area, there is less chance of baldness.
Ingredient #3 Bayberry Extract
This herb has been used for multiple ailments over the years, from calming a nervous stomach to improving hair conditions with split ends. It has also been shown to help inhibit the production of DHT at the cellular level, making the chances of hair loss in some men much less over time.
Ingredient #4 Tea Tree Oil Extract
Perhaps one of the most common causes of reduced hair growth that a plant extract can help with is inflammation of the scalp. One of the best known plant extracts. Tea tree oil is known to help reduce swelling, inflammation, and redness associated with skin irritation. It is naturally antiseptic and helps reduce the size of the pores on the scalp. This extract, along with a few others, could help reduce hair loss and stimulate growth.
Ingredient #5 Aloe Vera
The extract of this plant has been shown over the centuries to aid in numerous bodily functions. Its use as a moisturizing and cooling agent for sunburn has been well documented, and has even become popular brand name moisturizers and cooling sunburn gels on the market today. It can also help stimulate hair growth by helping to maintain a healthy, well-nourished scalp.
Regardless of which extracts one decides to use to combat baldness, a professional should always be consulted for an expert opinion on which plant extracts retard hair growth. There are many new options and some, like the ones mentioned above, look promising.