Herbs

• Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to improve the length, thickness and luster of hair. Saw palmetto--traditionally used as a treatment for male pattern baldness--is capable of binding the enzymes that are responsible for hair loss. Green tea, a powerful antioxidant, also inhibits these enzymes and restores circulation to the scalp. Because of the hair-like appearance of the herb horsetail, some traditional herbalists have also recommended it, based on folk practice, to people suffering from hair loss. Other traditional herbs for hair growth include ginkgo biloba and the Chinese herb he shou wu.
  
  

B-Vitamins

• In modern folk medicine, B-vitamins are a popular choice for people hoping to enhance their hair growth. Deficiency in biotin, or vitamin B-7, can cause brittle hair and the loss of eyelashes, hair and eyebrows. While many people use biotin supplements and biotin-containing shampoos for hair growth, these supplements may not be effective in people who already get enough biotin in the diet. Folic acid, another B-vitamin, is found in abundance in prenatal vitamins; many experts attribute hair growth in pregnant women to this water-soluble compound. Other B-vitamins traditionally used for hair growth include inositol, niacin and riboflavin. A B-vitamin complex can address underlying nutritional deficiencies, possibly leading to improved hair growth.
  
  

Mineral Sources

• Kelp, an excellent source of iodine and other minerals, can be used to address the deficiencies that can disrupt normal thyroid function and hair growth. Other sea vegetables like spirulina and brown seaweed can also provide trace minerals. Deficiencies in zinc, copper and manganese have all been linked to hair loss; naturopaths may recommend elemental trace-mineral supplements for healthy hair growth. In cases where hair loss is severe, experts may recommend tests for thyroid disease.