Last Updated on: 17th September 2023, 10:58 pm

No matter how healthy we are or how prolific our scalp is in growing hair, chances are, we’re going to lose a number of them every day. American Academy of Dermatologists says that we all lose 50 to 100 strands a day. While women lose a little more compared to men, this rate is considered normal. But what if you are experiencing a considerable loss of hair that patches of your scalp begin to show? One of the main causes of losing an abnormal amount of hair is Alopecia Areata.

What Is Alopecia Areata?

Meaning “bald patches”, this disease is characterized by significant hair loss that occurs in spots. It can affect anyone regardless of gender, although men are more susceptible. This disease reaches its peak from ages 20 to 40 years, but its onset can be observed even before someone reaches the age of 20.

What Causes Alopecia Areata?

Experts found evidence that it is a genetic, organ-specific, auto-immune disease.

Genetic

According to studies, 28% of people with alopecia have at least one relative who has the disease. In monozygotic twins, the chances of each manifesting alopecia are between 42 and 55%.

Organ-specific Autoimmunity

Normal hair follicles can resist harmful substances without provoking the release of antibodies to help eliminate the bad elements. In alopecia areata, however, this is not the case. Researchers think that the presence of antibodies in the affected follicles is what causes the loss of hair.

Environmental Triggers

This possibility of environmental factors triggering alopecia had been suggested, but no evidence has been found to confirm it so far.

Natural Treatment

There exist several medical methods for alopecia treatment, but these medications have undesirable side effects. Even the physicians don’t want to prescribe them.

This is where botanical herbs and other natural ingredients can provide you with effective solutions to alopecia.

Coconut Oil

With its rich amount of fatty acids, coconut oil effectively prevents protein loss from the hair by deeply penetrating the hair shaft.

Whichever you prefer, you can use a coconut oil treatment either before or after washing your hair. Simply apply it thoroughly and massage your scalp with it. Other than helping with your alopecia treatment, it also enhances your hair’s luster as had been used traditionally.

Aloe vera

It has always been part of traditional organic hair care. It helps fight dandruff which causes mild to severe irritation of the scalp leading to hair loss. It’s also an excellent hair conditioner.

You may use pure aloe vera from your garden or in a gel form that you can apply to your scalp once to a few times a week. Aloe vera shampoo and conditioner are also acceptable given that they contain real aloe vera.

Onion juice

This may not be your first choice, but a study shows promising results in using onion juice for alopecia treatment. Apply it to your scalp and leave it on for about 20 minutes before washing and using your shampoo. Do this twice a day for up to 2 months.

Fish oil

Proteins and nutrients present in omega fatty acids have been found to improve hair and scalp health. Together with antioxidants, consuming omega supplements in the form of fish oil is proven to increase hair diameter and density. Not only that it aids in alopecia treatment, but omega fatty acids also contribute to your general health.

Aromatherapy

A blend of essential oils, cedarwood, lavender, and rosemary had been observed to help alopecia treatment. Although research is still lacking in this treatment method, it has been a traditional way of treating hair loss.

Geranium oil

It has been observed to enhance hair growth and the health of the scalp. Geranium oil can help restore and strengthen your hair. Apply a few drops together with your shampoo and wash as you normally would.

Takeaway

Natural alopecia treatment is generally safer compared to other medications. They might also be less expensive. The key to yielding the best result if you’re going organic is consistency and patience. Remember that it takes more than a few weeks to get noticeable results, so you have to stick to your hair treatment regimen.

Don’t forget to talk to your physician to help you monitor your progress.