Hair Loss While hair loss is often viewed as an ailment that affects men, women can experience it as well. There are many causes of thinning hair: Overstyling, stress, and even vitamin imbalances can be to blame. Herbs don’t normally help if your hair loss is genetic, but they may stimulate hair growth in many other instances. Ginger Scalp Treatment Makes ½ cup Ginger increases circulation in the scalp, stimulating the hair follicles. This treatment will stay fresh for up to 2 months when kept in the refrigerator. 2 ounces fresh gingerroot, chopped ¼ cup sesame oil In a slow cooker, combine the ginger and sesame oil. Select the lowest heat setting, cover the slow cooker, and allow the herbs to steep in the oil for 3 to 5 hours. Turn off the heat and allow the infused oil to cool. Drape a piece of cheesecloth over a bowl. Pour in the infused oil, then wring the cheesecloth until no more oil comes out. Discard the spent ginger. Transfer the infused sesame oil to a clean, dry bottle or jar and allow it to cool completely before capping. Apply 1 tablespoon to the scalp before shampooing your hair. Massage it in. Leave the treatment in place for 30 minutes, then shampoo and condition your hair as usual. Repeat three to four times per week. Precautions Do not use ginger if you take prescription blood thinners, have gallbladder disease, or have a bleeding disorder. 1. 2. 3. 4. Ginkgo-Rosemary Tonic Makes about 1 cup Ginkgo and rosemary combine with witch hazel to increase circulation in the scalp, stimulating your hair follicles. Rosemary adds shine and strength to remaining hair, helping improve your appearance and your self-esteem. This tonic will stay fresh for up to 6 months when refrigerated. ½ ounce dried ginkgo biloba ½ ounce dried rosemary leaves 2 tablespoons fractionated coconut oil 1 cup witch hazel In a slow cooker, combine the herbs and fractionated coconut oil. Select the lowest heat setting, cover the slow cooker, and allow the herbs to steep in the oil for 3 to 5 hours. Turn off the heat and allow the infused oil to cool. Drape a piece of cheesecloth over a bowl. Pour in the infused oil, then wring and twist the cheesecloth until no more oil comes out. Discard the cheesecloth and spent herbs. In a dark-colored glass bottle with a spray top, combine the witch hazel with the infused oil. Shake gently to blend completely. After washing and conditioning your hair, apply a light mist of 1 or 2 spritzes to areas where hair loss is a concern, using a little more if needed. Massage the scalp with your fingertips. Repeat once or twice per day. Precautions Do not use ginkgo biloba if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression. Ginkgo biloba enhances the effect of blood thinners; talk to your doctor before use. Do not use rosemary if you have epilepsy.
