Alopecia

What you need to know:

Although alopecia causes enormous concern in some men - and men are more likely to suffer from it - there’s normally no serious underlying condition, which needs attention - except perhaps vanity. Men who have male pattern baldness - and more money than sense - often spend a fortune on expensive creams and treatments which result in a little flurry of ‘bum fluff’ on their heads which disappears as soon as they stop treatment. They’d be better off looking at the swimmer Duncan Goodhew or at Yul Brynner or Sean Connery - all dead sexy with hardly a hair between them. In fact, hormonal evidence suggests that balding men are sexier because of their excessive testosterone.

It’s a very different story, of course, when hair loss is caused by chemotherapy, illness or pregnancy. In these cases, which almost certainly resolve themselves in time, taking a hi-potency multivitamin and mineral formula containing at least 100mcg of selenium and 15-30mg of Zinc will help supply key nutrients that can speed recovery. These products and special products formulated for optimising hair growth are all available at good health food shops and pharmacies, and may also help women whose hair gets thinner because of age.

Alopecia often also indicates; severe stress, underlying illness, compromised immune function, inadequate protein in the diet, viral infection or malabsorption of nutrients. If you are not sure as to the cause of the problem, do see a Naturopath. In the meantime as a general guide, it may be wise to use supplements and herbs to boost the immune system, improve digestion and control stress.

If a virus is suspected take the following:

  • Astragalus

1gm to 3gm per day - for up to 14 days
  • Echinacea

1gm to 5gm per day - for up to 14 days
  • Goldenseal

1gm to 3gm per day - for up to 14 days
  • Vitamin C

1gm to 10gm per day - for up to 14 days

To address malabsorption:

  • Betaine HCI

1 to 2 capsules at the beginning of meals

Or:

  • Digestive Enzymes

1 to 2 capsules at the end of meals

To address stress, follow the advice in the Anxiety section, but as general support take a high-potency B-complex 1-2 times daily.

Dietary changes that may help:

Other useful advice:

Acupuncture may help stimulate hair growth in people who have alopecia areata or totalis.

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The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.