Mailbag: Halt Hair Loss Naturally

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted November 19, 2024

“I take a lot of vitamins, but my hair is falling out by the handfuls. I am 85 years old, but don’t have any major health problems that I know of.” 

– Hair Today Gone Tomorrow

Hi Hair Today,

I understand your concern about hair loss. Few things make us feel older than our years, quite like losing our hair.

Some hair thinning is normal with aging, of course. However, whenever a patient comes to me complaining of this issue, I always explain that sudden or excessive hair loss could indicate an underlying health problem.

Some potential causes I encourage them to consider, include…

• Nutritional deficiencies: Even if you take supplements, you might be missing key nutrients.
• Thyroid issues: An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause hair loss even with no other apparent symptoms.
• Medication side effects: Some common drugs can contribute to hair loss. Your pharmacist or doctor can discuss potential medication side effects.
• Hormones: Hormonal changes are common in older adults.

But I also have good news. There are several natural approaches to combat hair loss.

In fact, I often share the following natural hair-loss remedies with my own patients…

• Scalp massage: Regularly massaging your scalp can increase blood flow to hair follicles, stimulating growth. Try using warm oils like coconut, jojoba, or almond.
• Herbal supplements: Both lab and real-life results show herbs can help with hair loss. Saw palmetto helps block DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. Ginkgo biloba can improve circulation to the scalp. And horsetail is rich in silica, which can strengthen hair.
• Nutrition: Making the right dietary choices is critical for healthy hair. Hair is primarily made of protein, so be sure you’re eating enough. Include biotin-rich foods like eggs, nuts, and sweet potatoes in your diet. And eat plenty of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish and flaxseeds.
• Essential oils: Rosemary, peppermint, and lavender essential oils could help stimulate hair growth when diluted and applied to the scalp.
• Green tea: Antioxidant-rich green tea may help reduce hair loss when applied topically or consumed.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera naturally soothes the scalp and may help reduce dandruff, which can contribute to hair loss.
• Collagen: Collagen is a major protein that provides structural support to hair. And as a building block for keratin, which forms hair, collagen also promotes growth.
• Stress reduction: Stress can contribute to hair loss, so relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga could help.

I encourage anyone concerned about hair loss to consult a doctor, preferably one open to natural medicine. They can check for any underlying health issues and ensure you get all the appropriate nutrients for a healthy head of hair.

P.S. Aging breakthrough could extend lifespan by decades.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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