There are various natural ingredients and supplements that can be used to treat alopecia at home. Some of these ingredients and supplements are supported by scientific research, while others are not. Here are some of the most promising options:
Supplements:
- Pumpkin seed oil
- Zinc
- Vitamin E
- Omega fatty acids
- Viviscal and Nutrafol (commercial formulations)
These supplements have shown promise in the treatment of specific types of hair loss, according to a review of 30 prior human studies. However, the studies included in the review were generally small and used subjective inclusion criteria, emphasizing the need for larger, more robust randomized clinical trials.
Topical treatments:
- Horsetail
- Saw palmetto
- Ginseng
- Capsaicin and isoflavones
Horsetail has been suggested to benefit hair growth due to its silicon and antioxidant contents. Saw palmetto extract may block 5 alpha-reductase (5AR), an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. Ginseng contains saponins, which have been shown to encourage hair growth by inhibiting 5AR in mice, as well as gintonin, which may be a suitable treatment for alopecia in humans. A small randomized clinical trial showed that capsaicin and isoflavones together can enhance hair growth in individuals with alopecia.
Home remedies:
- Coconut oil
- Castor oil
- Almond oil
- Shea butter
- Soya oil
- Jojoba oil
- Cedar wood oil
- Tea tree oil
- Onion juice
Some people have used these home remedies to treat alopecia, but their effectiveness is not supported by scientific research. Some people have reported negative side effects or unpleasant experiences with these remedies, such as burning sensations or unpleasant tastes and smells.
Its important to note that treatment of hair loss generally requires addressing the underlying cause, such as nutritional deficiency or disease. There are also FDA-approved medications for androgenetic alopecia, namely oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Due to the potential negative effects of finasteride in females, only minoxidil is also used for androgenetic alopecia in females.
In summary, while there are some natural ingredients and supplements that have shown promise in the treatment of alopecia, its important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.