Natural Treatments for Alopecia Areata

• Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease where the immune system, overreacts and attacks the cells in your hair follicles causing hair loss.
• Scientists believe that a combination of genes and environmental factors play a role in causing alopecia areata.

The digestive tract controls your immune system. This is why probiotic supplements can help to treat a number of autoimmune conditions, including alopecia areata. This results in healthier and younger looking hair and skin. More importantly, they can improve your immune system so that your body doesn’t overreact to perceived threats and cause inflammation. Try to eat probiotic foods daily, such as kefir, kombucha, cultured vegetables, yogurt and apple cider vinegar.

Zinc may help regulate your immune system and repair your gut, which is vital for normal immune responses. Plus, zinc is a vital mineral for healthy function of hair follicles. A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that lower serum zinc levels are common among patients with alopecia areata, with zinc levels being the lowest in patients with severe cases of the hair loss disease. If you suffer alopecia areata eat foods high in zinc, such as pumpkin seeds, grass-fed beef, lamb,chickpeas, cashews, yogurt and spinach.

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid antioxidant that reduces inflammation and fights free radical damage. It has strong effects on immunity and suppresses inflammatory pathways.

A 2012 study conducted on mice found that quercetin was effective in stimulating hair regrowth when compared to placebo injections. Scientists believe that this is due to quercetin’s anti-inflammatory properties.

Rosemary oil is commonly used to enhance hair thickness and growth. It works by increasing cellular metabolism that stimulates hair growth. Research shows that massaging rosemary oil into the scalp can be as effective as minoxidil, a pharmaceutical treatment for alopecia areata.

Avoid all processed and sugary foods. Instead, eat anti-inflammatory foods like green leafy vegetables, beets, broccoli, blueberries, nuts, seeds, spices (especially turmeric and ginger), wild-caught salmon, bone broth and coconut oil. These foods provide antioxidants, important minerals and essential fatty acids.

There are a number of stress relievers that can help to encourage blood circulation and promote hair growth. These include exercise (like yoga), meditation, journaling and spending more time outdoors. Dealing with hair loss can be difficult emotionally, as you may begin to feel insecure about your appearance. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members during this difficult time. And, connect with other people who are also dealing with this skin condition.

Note: See your doctor if you have a reaction to taking any of the above natural supplements.