Hair thinning or loss is a common experience for most people at some point in their lives. In some cases, such as after pregnancy, hair often begins to regrow naturally. However, for others — particularly when genetics are involved - it can become a more persistent concern.
If you’ve started researching solutions, you’ve likely come across a vast array of products claiming to promote hair growth or thickness, from medications to topical treatments. Among these, natural remedies, including certain herbs, are often touted as effective. But is there scientific evidence to support their use?
In this guide, we’ll look into what are often considered the best herbs for hair growth, as well as explore an alternative treatment option to help you make an informed decision.
1. Lavender
Lavender oil has shown some potential for promoting hair growth when applied topically. In one study, mice treated with lavender oil experienced an increase in both the number of hair follicles and the depth of the follicles.
However, it should be emphasized that strong clinical evidence from human studies is still lacking. Additionally, the group treated with minoxidil in the same study demonstrated the most significant hair growth.
2. Red clover
Hair loss, including male and female pattern baldness, is partly influenced by hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. A small study suggested that red clover extract may help by blocking 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, which can potentially support hair growth.
That said, it’s important to note that more thorough studies are needed to confirm these effects. To date, red clover has not been proven to effectively treat any health condition. Moreover, red clover supplements should be avoided during pregnancy, as they can disrupt hormone balance and may impact the developing baby.
3. Stinging nettle
Stinging nettle has been used for centuries in both food and medicine, valued for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and iron, which can benefit both skin and hair health.
Thanks to these properties, stinging nettle is a popular ingredient in many hair care products and shampoos. However, high-quality studies specifically investigating its effects on hair health are limited, and there is no solid evidence to suggest it promotes hair regrowth.
4. Peppermint
Research has shown that peppermint oil, when applied to the scalp, may stimulate the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle. It appears to promote growth by improving blood circulation to the hair follicles and increasing follicle depth.
Although it should be said that this study was conducted on mice, there is currently insufficient human research to confirm its effectiveness in promoting hair growth. So, before you reach for the peppermint oil, keep in mind that more evidence is needed to support its use.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is widely recognized for its antibacterial properties, which may help address certain skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. One study examined a treatment combining aloe ferox gel, oregano oil, and finasteride, showing promising results in managing alopecia.
Saying that, the effectiveness of this treatment is likely due to finasteride, an FDA-approved medication for hair loss. While aloe vera gel may theoretically support hair growth, there isn’t sufficient evidence to confirm its direct benefits.
On this point, bear in mind that finasteride is not safe for use by pregnant women or those trying to conceive, given that it can cause severe birth defects.
6. Sage
While commonly used in cooking, sage is also believed to have medicinal benefits, including promoting skin healing and potentially supporting hair growth. Research has shown that sage extract can activate human dermal papilla cells (DPCs), which are essential for hair follicle development and growth.
Though again, this study was conducted on mice, and further research on humans is necessary to verify whether sage can actually lead to hair regrowth.
Do herbs help with hair loss?
Despite some studies suggesting that select herbal plant extracts may promote hair growth or reduce hair loss, there is insufficient clinical evidence from human studies. In many cases, studies have either relied on animal models, such as mice, or included additional treatments that made it difficult to isolate the effects of the herbs alone.
Furthermore, there are no definitive guidelines on the appropriate dosage, form, or duration for using herbal remedies to address hair loss. It’s also important to remember that ‘natural’ doesn’t always equate to ‘safe.’ Some individuals may experience contact reactions to essential oils, and natural ingredients can potentially interact negatively with certain medications.
A proven alternative to plant-based treatments for hair loss
In conclusion, herbal treatments for hair loss may sound appealing, but their benefits remain unproven and can sometimes lead to unwanted side effects. Therefore, if you’re serious about addressing hair loss, you can experiment with these remedies — or you can turn to scientifically validated solutions.
One such option is low-level light therapy (LLLT), also known as laser phototherapy (LPT). Alongside FDA-approved treatments like finasteride (which is not suitable for pregnant women due to the risk of birth defects) and minoxidil, LLLT is one of the few FDA-cleared treatments for hair growth. It works by stimulating hair follicles, promoting regrowth, and improving hair thickness.
Among the most highly recommended LLLT devices is the Theradome helmet, which boasts an impressive 98% customer satisfaction rate. Unlike many treatments, LLLT is completely non-invasive and has no known side effects, making it a safe and reliable at-home solution for hair restoration.
Rather than spending money on herbal remedies with uncertain results, invest in the Theradome laser helmet to take control of your hair loss or thinning today.
