Amla berry, or Indian gooseberry, is an ancient food that has a special place in Ayurvedic medicine. Exhibiting nearly twice the antioxidant power of acai berry and 17 times that of the pomegranate, amla berry contributes to better immune, heart, skin, liver, and kidney function. It also acts as a diuretic agent, which helps to balance stomach acids, fortify the liver, and enhance food absorption. 

What Is Amla Berry?

According to Indian folklore, this berry came from “…the first tree to appear on earth.” Manifested from the tears of Brahma during meditation, the amla berry has been revered by ancient health practitioners. It’s an extremely sour berry that grows on a tree native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast Asia. It exhibits powerful antioxidant properties, which is why many people consume it to boost the health of the skin, hair, and immune system. Amla berry has a fibrous texture and people in India eat it with salt and chili powder. It is also available in powder, tea, pickled, and dried form. 

Amla Berry Nutrition

One cup of amla berries contains one gram of protein, seven grams of fiber, 15 grams of carbs, and less than one gram of fat. Amla berry also contains copper, vitamins B5 & B6, manganese, potassium, and lots of vitamin C. In fact, one cup of amla berries offers 46% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C. Continue reading to learn how amla berry can benefit your overall health.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Some research indicates that amla berry may support a healthy digestive system. One study monitored 68 people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who took two 500-milligram tablets of amla extract twice daily for four weeks. The results found that the participants experienced significant reductions in frequency of heartburn and regurgitation. Older animal studies found that amla extract may work to heal or even prevent stomach ulcers. Researchers believe that this is due to the antioxidant content. Amla berry also stimulates the secretion of gastric and digestive juices, helping the body digest food easily while absorbing nutrients optimally.

May Control Blood Sugar

Amla berry contains chromium, which has therapeutic effects for people with diabetes. Chromium works to stimulate the isolated group of cells that secrete insulin, which may reduce blood sugar in people with diabetes. By reducing blood sugar, cells can use glucose as functional energy, which prevents the plunges and spikes of blood sugar. Additionally, a 2011 study found that amla fruit exhibited anti-hyperglycemic and lipid-lowering effects on type 2 diabetics. 

Promotes Heart Health

Many studies suggest that consuming the juice of amla berries can positively impact heart health. One study found that supplementing with amla extract for 12 weeks helped reduce several risk factors of heart disease in overweight or obese adults. This study also found that cholesterol levels and inflammatory markers reduced after amla extract consumption. In a separate study, people consumed 500-milligrams of amla extract twice daily for 12 weeks. The participants, who had abnormal blood lipid levels, were able to reduce total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol. Additionally, the participants who consumed amla extract had a 39% reduction in atherogenic index of plasma. Atherogenic index is used to evaluate the risk of excess cholesterol build-up in the arteries. 

May Boost Immunity

The vitamin C, vitamin A, alkaloids, flavonoids (like quercetin and kampferol), and polyphenols in amla berry all contribute to optimal immune function. One study found that amla berry exhibited potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. According to Ayurvedic medicine, amla berry works to increase white blood cell production, helping the body defend itself against foreign invaders. A review of studies determined that vitamin C may help prevent certain infections and shorten the duration of the common cold, provided people consume it regularly.

May Increase Hair Growth

There are several studies surrounding amla berry’s ability to prevent hair loss or contribute to hair growth. One study found that amla berry was able to block a specific enzyme that is involved with hair loss. A separate test-tube study found that amla extract may stimulate hair growth by promoting the growth of specific cells in hair follicles. Amla powder is a common addition to many hair tonics because it helps enrich hair pigmentation and growth. Applying amla oil to the roots may strengthen roots and help hair maintain color. Researchers attribute this ability to the carotene content of amla.

You can consume amla fruit fresh, as a fruit juice, or in dried powder form. It’s typically safe to consume, but consult a medical expert if you want to use it for medicinal reasons. Certain cautions may be advised, depending on the state of your health. Amla fruit is in both our Vitamin C formula and Anti-V formula, both of which are in the Immune Booster Kit. Snag your kit now to help optimize immune function for a healthier fall season.

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Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a type of palm that is native to the southwestern United States. It is commonly used in various supplements to improve prostate health, prevent hair loss in men, and balance hormone levels. Saw palmetto has actually been marketed as a natural remedy for an enlarged prostate. In fact, more than a third of all adults in the U.S. who take saw palmetto supplements do so specifically to improve prostate health. 

Although more research is needed on saw palmetto’s effect on men’s health, the existing research shows great promise. Some people, including those who may be pregnant, should avoid saw palmetto. Continue reading to learn about the top four benefits of saw palmetto.

May Support Prostate Health 

The prostate gland is located between the bladder and the penis. It is responsible for maintaining sperm health, but an enlarged prostate can get in the way of healthy urinary flow and sperm production. According to various research studies, saw palmetto can support prostate health and help prevent issues, such as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. Other studies indicate that saw palmetto may reduce BPH-related urinary symptoms and inflammation. One 15-year study of 30 participants with BPH found that 320 milligrams (mg) of saw palmetto extract per day may help prevent the progression of BPH. 

May Reduce Inflammation

There are numerous animal studies that suggest that saw palmetto exhibits anti-inflammatory activity, which may benefit certain health conditions. One study from 2015 in rats with BPH found that saw palmetto effectively decreased inflammation and improved antioxidant status. A separate 2015 study in mice with enlarged prostates found that saw palmetto extract decreased several inflammatory markers, including interleukin 6 (IL-6). Although these studies are promising, research on humans is lacking. For this reason, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to claim that saw palmetto reduces inflammation in humans. 

May Improve Urinary Tract Function

It’s possible that saw palmetto may benefit BPH, which is a condition that causes an enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to decreased urine flow. A small 12-week study including participants with BPH found that those who took 1,000 mg of saw palmetto oil mixed with beta-sitosterol experienced significant improvements in BPH symptoms. Another 24-week study of 354 participants found that supplementing with 320 mg of saw palmetto decreased BPH symptoms and improved urinary flow and sexual function. More research is still necessary to determine whether saw palmetto supplements aid urinary tract function in the general population. Current research is promising, though. 

May Help Regulate Testosterone Levels

Many people who want to naturally boost testosterone levels may turn to saw palmetto oil as an option. Testosterone affects body composition, sex drive, mood, brain function, and more. Testosterone levels naturally decline naturally with age and can interfere with quality of life. Some research suggests saw palmetto may boost testosterone levels by decreasing the activity of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, to help preserve testosterone. A 2020 review found that saw palmetto may also block the uptake of DHT and reduce its ability to bind to androgen receptors by almost 50%. A smaller and older study found that supplementing with 1,200 mg of Resettin, a supplement containing saw palmetto and astaxanthin, increased serum testosterone levels by 38%. Looking to boost testosterone levels, consider the Dherbs Testosterone Booster as a natural alternative. 

May Prevent Hair Loss

Hair loss is very common among men and has numerous causes, from genetics and hormonal changes to certain medications and health conditions. Some people tend to use saw palmetto to balance hormone levels and reduce hair loss. As previously mentioned, saw palmetto may block 5-alpha reductase, which is linked to hair loss. By reducing the uptake of DHT in your hair follicles, saw palmetto may help decrease DHT’s ability to bind to specific hormone receptors. A 16-week study from 2023 involving people with androgenic alopecia who took a specifically formulated saw palmetto supplement found that saw palmetto reduced the rate of hair falling out. It also contributed to hair growth and improved scalp appearance compared to a placebo.

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Have you been looking for an easy, natural way to nourish your hair, treat dandruff, and reduce itchiness on the scalp? Maybe you want to help prevent split ends or find a treatment that supplies the scalp with beneficial nutrients. Whatever your reason, this peppermint scalp treatment does all of that and more. In this article, we’ll explore how the ingredients in this treatment benefit the hair and scalp. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Not only does peppermint essential oil have a refreshing aroma, but it also has a place in skin and hair care applications. Peppermint essential oil exhibits antimicrobial, analgesic, insecticidal, pesticidal, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilating properties. Some people have used it to counteract hair loss because it contains menthol. Menthol is a natural vasodilator that improves blood flow to the scalp. In most cases, hair loss occurs due to starved blood flow to hair follicles. By increasing circulation to the scalp, you could potentially improve hair growth. It may also strengthen strands and prevent split ends by hydrating and nourishing hair, which helps reduce breakage. 

Jojoba Oil

Due to its oily composition, jojoba oil can act as a natural moisturizer for hair, conditioning and protecting it against dryness and breakage. Because it can moisturize the scalp, it may act as a natural dandruff remedy. Additional evidence shows that Jojoba oil is a staple ingredient in many shampoos and conditioners. Its inclusion is for micro emulsion, which basically means that it assists in carrying the active ingredients of the product to where they need to go, i.e. the hair and scalp. The oil also has a reputation as a hair growth stimulant, but that is not backed by research. One study tested jojoba oil for hair growth and it was less effective than minoxidil and peppermint essential oil.

Coconut Oil

Used topically to hydrate the scalp, coconut oil may help prevent dandruff and promote hair growth. There is some evidence that the lauric acid in coconut oil may protect the hair against protein loss. Dyes, bleach, some shampoos, and various styling products can cause hair to become dull and fragile due to keratin loss. Lauric acid’s unique structure allows it to be absorbed into the hair shaft, which prevents moisture loss and encourages stronger hair. Additionally, some evidence indicates that coconut oil may help you manage a dry, itchy scalp. A small study found that applying coconut oil to the scalp had anti-fungal benefits. Researchers also noted that coconut oil may help combat scalp yeast infections and reduce scalp flaking. 

DIY Peppermint Scalp Treatment

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 teaspoon castor oil
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil
• 3 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Spoon the coconut oil into a small bowl and microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to melt it. Once melted, mix in the jojoba oil and castor oil. 
• Stir in the peppermint essential oil and tea tree oil. These oils give the treatment a lovely aroma, but they also do wonders for reducing itchiness and dryness on the scalp. 
• Pour the mixture into a dropper bottle and use when ready. You can apply the oil mixture directly to the scalp, gently massaging it in circular motions for three to five minutes to increase the absorption and stimulate circulation. 
• Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, covering your hair with a shower cap or towel to protect the hair and scalp during the process. 
• Use a natural shampoo to wash the treatment out. Ideally, use this treatment once or twice per week to keep your scalp healthy and fabulous.  

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It seems that the beauty industry continues to suggest new products for your skin and hair that you “absolutely need.” If you have a difficult time managing facial skin, hair, or scalp, then you may quickly purchase these items in hopes of remedying the issue(s). What you end up with is a cabinet full of masks, oils, exfoliants, serums, creams, lotions, and more. Is there an end to this madness?

Believe it or not, and we are not about to sell you on a product, but scalp serums make up a big part of this beauty shift. There are buzz-worthy formulas and ingredients in products, but are they really necessary? If you deal with certain scalp issues, though, you may benefit from using a simple scalp serum. We’ll detail three signs that may make you want to consider a scalp serum. 

Flakes Or Dryness

It’s possible to see two types of flakes on the scalp: dandruff and dryness, the former of which calls for targeted treatment, such as social shampoos. Dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis, which is a form of eczema, and it is caused by Malassezia furfur, which is a type of yeast. Dermatologists note that dandruff flare-ups tend to happen for several reasons, but the most common are stress and changes in weather (both cold and humid temperatures).

A dry scalp may reveal symptoms, such as itchiness, flakes, tight skin, redness, or ashiness, some of which overlap with dandruff’s symptoms. If you see dryness-induced flakes, seek out a hydrating scalp serum that contains peptides, hyaluronic acid, and similar ingredients. 

General Or Localized Thinning

Hair thinning tends to result from miniaturization, a process during which the diameter of the hair shaft decreases in size. That can result from hormone-related hair loss, stress-related hair loss, or the buildup of natural oils and products on the scalp. The latter only happens if you do not wash your hair enough, or you frequently use heavy products on the scalp, such as dry shampoo. Thinning can be a sign that your scalp needs a little extra TLC, especially with a serum focused on hair growth. Click here to make a natural scalp serum that may help you grow your hair. 

Congestion Surrounding Roots

Congestion may not be the first word you think of regarding your hair and scalp, but it can happen there as well. Generally speaking, a congested scalp is full of buildup from various hair products, dead skin, and natural oils. If you get close enough to the mirror, you may see a little skin visible under the buildup between hair strands. You can also massage your scalp with your fingers and see if the buildup has broken up after. 

In order to get rid of buildup, you will need a scalp serum that contains an exfoliant. Detox treatments, as some people call them, are great for cleansing the scalp and removing buildup. A scalp scrub can also be a great first step before applying a serum. Use these scalp serums before you wash your hair and consider following it up with a hydrating scalp serum, just as you would moisturize your face after using a cleansing scrub. 

Ultimately, you should treat your scalp a little more like skin and a little less like hair. That means you use scalp serums when necessary, especially if you notice dryness, thinning hair, or product buildup.

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A ringworm rash is uncomfortable, but it is very common and easily treatable. Early intervention is critical if you want to prevent it from spreading and infecting others. It is usually an itchy, circular rash with a clearer center. The fungal infection gets its name from the appearance, with a darker red line on the exterior. 

What Is Ringworm?

Ringworm usually causes a ring-shaped rash that can be scaly, itchy, and slightly raised. It is related to athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis). It is a fungal infection that spreads via skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. If the infection is mild, you can easily get rid of it with mild anti-fungal ointment or cream. If the infection is more severe, you may need to take oral anti-fungal medication for a couple weeks. 

There are many things you can do to help get rid of ringworm and accelerate the recovery process. If you want to limit the spread and get rid of the infection, consider these simple treatment options. 

Apply A Topical Anti-Fungal

Most ringworm cases only require at-home treatment. Over-the-counter anti-fungals can help kill the fungus and promote healing. There are many ointments that can help clear up the rash. To apply the topical anti-fungal medication, make sure to clean the rash first. Wash your hands and then apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily, or as instructed. Make sure to spread the topical ointment beyond the border of the rash by a centimeter or so, as that will help it absorb into the skin.

Wash Your Bedding Every Day

Ringworm, much like athlete’s foot, is a highly contagious fungal infection. For this reason, you should wash your bedding and clothes daily to help get rid of the infection more quickly. The reason to change your sheets is because fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, you can delay the healing process and increase the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body. Make sure to use hot water and detergent when you wash infected bedding or sheets. 

Let It Breathe

It seems counterintuitive to leave the ringworm infection out in the open. You should cover it up to avoid spreading the infection, right? As true as that may seem, bandaging the infection locks in moisture, which slows the healing process. Make sure to keep the area dry and wear comfortable, breathable clothing to promote faster healing. Loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants are excellent. No skin-tight clothing items!

Change Wet Underwear And Socks

One of the easiest ways to develop athlete’s foot or ringworm is to continue wearing wet socks or underwear. Ringworm can develop in the groin area and feet if you do not keep these areas dry. If you sweat a lot during the day, make sure to bathe with a cleansing bar and consider applying an anti-fungal powder or lotion. Just make sure the area is completely dry before you put on new underwear or socks. 

Use Anti-Fungal Shampoo

If ringworm develops on the scalp, which is not too common, you may experience severe itching, patches of hair loss, and severe dandruff. A medicated anti-fungal shampoo can help remedy ringworm on the scalp. These shampoos will kill the bacteria and fungi on the scalp, preventing inflammation. You can buy an anti-fungal shampoo at the grocery store or drugstore. Just make sure that these shampoos have active ingredients like selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, or ketoconazole. 

Experiment With Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works to reduce inflammation, and is a known “itch-soother.” Some research suggests that aloe vera also exhibits anti-fungal activity. Aloe will not likely harm the skin and may help to reduce itchiness. That said, it probably will not clear up ringworm on its own, but it may be effective when combined with an anti-fungal ringworm solution. Use aloe gel from a plant for the best results.

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You try to encourage hair growth with serums, oils, scalp scrubs, and more, but your efforts don’t seem to yield positive results. What’s the deal? Well, hair loss is complicated and several factors, from genetics to lifestyle, are potential causes. More often than not, there are several factors that contribute to hair thinning or hair loss, so it can be difficult to address the exact problem. 

Hair loss is frustrating because you don’t always know how to fight it. What can you do to contribute to better growth and healthier hair? Stress management practices are a great starting point because anxiety often triggers hair loss. There are several science-backed hair growth products that have proven to be effective for many people. And the last thing, which you may overlook, is what you eat. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet with the right nutrients can contribute to healthier hair. 

You don’t have to look further than the grocery store if you want to optimize your hair nutrition. Hair supplements, vitamins, and minerals can be beneficial, but you can typically get the hair nutrients you need from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and other foods. If you experience hair loss and want to fight back through your diet, you’ll need more of the following nutrients. 

Iron

Protein, which we’ll get to next, is an essential nutrient for hair growth, but iron is just as important. Iron, which you can easily find in lentils, kidney beans, cashews, spinach, beets, and other foods, is stored in keratin. When you do not consume enough iron-rich foods, the body scavenges for it from other sources, such as your hair. In fact, many studies have linked iron deficiency to hair loss. If you are worried about your iron levels, consult a doctor for guidance before taking an iron supplement. Taking too much iron may have adverse effects. 

Protein

There are various sources of protein, some of which are animal-based and some of which are plant-based. Greek yogurt, wild caught salmon, free-range organic chicken, tempeh, lentils, beans, spelt, hemp seeds, green peas, quinoa, oats, wild rice, chia seeds, broccoli, nuts, spinach, asparagus, and sweet potatoes are all great protein sources. Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. 

Hair is made up of keratin, which is a protein, so you need to eat protein in order to have a sufficient supply of amino acids. The recommended daily amount (RDA) of protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. For optimal hair growth and to reduce hair shedding, consume 1.2 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Lastly, diversify your protein intake so that you get protein from different foods. The body also requires protein for nails and the skin!

Prebiotic Fibers And Fermented Foods

According to research, foods that support gut health can positively affect your hair. Nourish the gut microbiome with fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, miso, natto, and more. You also need to feed the healthy bacteria in your gut with prebiotic fibers, which include garlic, asparagus, onions, sunchokes, among other foods. Prebiotic fibers and fermented foods are not directly related to hair growth, but they do reduce overall inflammation and increase nutrient absorption. Researchers note that chronic inflammation can trigger hair loss because it prematurely sends hair to its shedding phase. 

Zinc

The final nutrient to pay attention to is zinc, which you can find in pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sesame butter, wheat germ, oats, ginger, and raw cacao. Much like fermented foods and prebiotic fibers, the relationship between zinc and hair loss isn’t fully understood. Some studies found that men with male-pattern baldness had low levels of zinc. Other research notes that zinc may influence the production of DHT, a hormone that’s linked to hair loss in both men and women.

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It’s standard to shed an average of 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. If you noticed more strands falling to the floor during the colder months, you may be curious why that is. Although an increase in shedding can spark some anxiety, there are several reasons why your locks are falling out more than usual. 

Hair Loss During Winter

Excessive hair loss during the winter is largely attributed to the dry air outside, sucking the moisture away from your scalp. When the dry air depletes your scalp of moisture, your hair dries out as a result. That can lead to hair damage, breakage, and loss, which can be quite scary if you don’t know that the environment is the culprit. Losing more strands than usual can also cause itchiness and dandruff, both of which increase the risk of hair loss. 

Hormonal Shifts And Menopause

Although this isn’t a weather-related reason, hormones can impact your hair follicles. This won’t happen to everyone, but changing hormones, be it from menopause or from a new birth control method, can increase shedding and overall hair changes. Hair loss is very common during menopause, but it starts off as increased shedding. When someone enters menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels start to change and decline. According to several studies, those two hormones play a role in hair growth. Additionally, they can influence the time that hair stays in the growth phase, according to hair care specialists. 

Stress

Stress is the final common culprit that can cause excess hair shedding. Many people think that stress can make your hair fall out all in the same day, but this is not the case. It can take up to six months to see hair shedding that’s caused by stress. That can make stress-induced hair shedding tricky to spot, unless you can pinpoint a significant stressful period or traumatic period that occurred six months prior to shedding. 

How Do You Deal With Hair Shedding?

Although hair shedding is inevitable, there are things you can do to keep your scalp and hair healthy. Try to minimize how much you accessorize your look with headwear and consider the following strategies to encourage a healthier scalp.

Prioritize Stress Reduction

This is easier said than done, but focusing on stress reduction in your day-to-day life will help with stress-induced shedding. Not to mention, making an effort to lower stress levels can also improve your mental and physical health. How you choose to blow off steam will depend on your lifestyle, schedule, and what makes you happy. Some people like to hit the gym or run around the neighborhood to reduce stress, while others prefer meditation, yoga, or breathing techniques. If you need inspiration or tips for reducing stress, click here. 

Oil Massages

Not only does a scalp massage feel incredible, but it also works to increase blood circulation to the scalp. Increasing blood flow to the scalp can help strengthen hair follicles from within. Warm up two to three teaspoons of olive oil or sweet almond oil and massage it slowly into the scalp. This massage will help it penetrate the hair roots and promote nourishment. Carrier oils like these can provide your hair and scalp with the right vitamins and minerals it needs. Plus, certain oils work to reduce scalp dryness and can prevent itchiness. 

Eat Healthy And Stay Hydrated

When your diet lacks essential vitamins and minerals, your hair and scalp, in addition to other organs and systems, can suffer. Vitamin A encourages healthy sebum production on the scalp, while vitamin E encourages blood circulation to the scalp. Additionally, vitamin B works to maintain healthy hair, which is especially important when the weather is dry and cold. Ideally, you should consume a range of colorful fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens. Besides eating healthier foods, drinking the right amount of water can keep your hair well hydrated. In addition to supplying your hair with moisture, staying hydrated can also prevent split ends and brittle hair.

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There are a lot of easy DIY shampoo recipes out there. You throw a couple ingredients in a pump bottle, shake it up, and you’re ready to roll. Essentially, most homemade shampoo recipes contain the same basic ingredients: coconut milk, liquid Castile soap, and essential oils. Some other recipes throw in the additional olive oil, sweet almond oil, honey, or vitamin E oil. One recipe isn’t necessarily better than another one; rather, you have to find the right recipe that works best for your hair and scalp. 

We do have to clarify one thing about the shampoo before we detail some of the impressive ingredients. This homemade shampoo contains coconut milk, but you have to be very exact with your measurement of that ingredient. If you add too much coconut milk, your shampoo will not be sudsy. Additionally, coconut milk will go bad after a while, which is why we included vitamin E oil in this recipe. It acts like a natural preservative, helping your shampoo last longer. Finally, adding too much liquid Castile soap can make your hair feel stripped.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a common ingredient in skin and hair care products because it is a great source of healthy fats. The good news is that coconut milk also contains a list of nutrients that encourage a healthy scalp and optimal locks. Lauric acid, one of the primary nutrients in coconut milk, is a long-chain/medium-chain fatty acid that can easily penetrate the hair and strengthen the cuticle. Coconut milk’s high protein content may help strengthen your hair because the hair is predominantly supported by the types of protein you eat. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

In general, peppermint essential oil is beneficial for people with oily hair and scalps. Just as with any essential oil, you have to dilute it in a carrier oil before topical application. Peppermint essential oil works to stimulate blood flow to the skin, which may increase dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth, according to research. One study found that a 4% menthol solution caused blood vessels to widen, which increased blood flow. Another research study found that the use of a peppermint oil solution led to more hair growth than minoxidil, an FDA-approved hair growth product. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough research to support that the regular use of peppermint oil can increase hair growth. It may, however, stimulate hair growth due to the vasodilation of the blood vessels. 

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil was popularly used in folk medicine, which is why many scientists have tested it for potential health benefits. Although most of the research is preliminary, the studies illustrate possible uses for rosemary essential oil. One of the most common uses of rosemary essential oil is to help reduce hairs loss and improve hair growth. Rosemary oil works to fight back against androgenetic alopecia, one of the leading causes of hair loss. It does this by preventing a byproduct of testosterone from attacking hair follicles. Men with androgenetic alopecia massaged diluted rosemary essential oil onto their scalp twice daily for six months. At the end of the study, they experienced the same increase in hair thickness as those who used minoxidil. 

Homemade Rosemary Mint Shampoo

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) plastic bottle with pump
• 1.25 cups unsweetened coconut milk
• 3/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 1 teaspoon almond oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 30 drops rosemary essential oil
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into the plastic bottle, screw on the lid, and shake well to combine. 
• Store in the fridge or in a cool, dark place. Use when ready.

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For thousands of years, different civilizations have used plant extracts for their health benefits. Nowadays, essential oils serve as alternatives to Western medicine. Tea tree oil is no exception, offering myriad health benefits, especially for the hair and skin. It helps to clean the hair, keep it strong, reduce dandruff, and help get rid of skin infections, acne, and athlete’s foot. 

What Is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, which is native to Australia. It is commonly used as a pure essential oil in various skin and hair care products. Tea tree oil exhibits antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it has gained so much attention in the health and beauty world. It is an effective acne and dandruff fighter because many of the same bacteria that tea tree oil fights on the face exist on the scalp. 

When it comes to using tea tree oil on the hair and scalp, make sure that you use an essential oil, not a fragrance oil. Fragrance oils do not offer the same health benefits as essential oils, which are obtained via hydrodistillation, steam distillation, pressing plants, or dry distillation. Fragrance oils are manufactured in a lab in most cases, so avoid those if you want to reap the following hair care benefits. 

May Cleanse The Scalp

Looking to get your scalp extra clean? Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties may be able to fight harmful germs that live on the scalp, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Health experts say that these microorganisms can disrupt the normal function of the scalp’s glands. Additionally, an overgrowth of bacteria, including staphylococcus or strains of streptococcus can cause folliculitis, cellulitis, or impetigo, all of which increase the risk of hair loss. 

Fights Dandruff

Dandruff is usually caused by yeast that infects the scalp. The antibacterial and antifungal properties in tea tree oil have been proven to treat the source of dandruff. Participants in one study used a tea tree oil shampoo for one month. By the end of the month, the participants that used the tea tree oil shampoo showed a 41% improvement in dandruff symptoms. Researchers also noted that tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties were effective at relieving the itchiness associated with dandruff. This is because tea tree oil fights the flake-forming yeast.

May Stimulate Hair Growth

Inflammation of the scalp happens to be one of the leading causes of hair loss. Researchers attribute the anti-inflammatory properties in tea tree oil to the antioxidant content. By reducing inflammation in the scalp, tea tree oil helps foster a healthy environment for new hair to grow. Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct link between tea tree oil and new hair growth. However, there is evidence that by improving scalp health and reducing dandruff, new hair can be healthier and thicker. A 2013 study found that a mixture of tea tree oil and minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) was more effective at increasing hair thickness, count, and weight than minoxidil alone. 

So Long To Head Lice

Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4 and 1,8-cineole, both of which exhibit insecticidal properties. In fact, these compounds have an ability to kill lice in the nymph and adult life stage. They also prevent lice eggs from hatching. Terpinen-4 and 1,8-cineole dissolve the gummy texture and loosen up existing eggs from the hair shaft. At that point, you can comb the lice out of your hair. One study found that tea tree oil was an effective holistic treatment for getting rid of lice.

How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Hair

You can use tea tree oil in a couple ways on your hair and scalp. You can use it in its pure essential oil form, or as an active ingredient in shampoo or conditioner. Because tea tree oil is highly potent, you have to minimize the risk of irritation by diluting it with a carrier oil before topical application. As with any other new ingredient in your skin care, test a small skin patch before applying to your whole head. You can also add a couple drops of tea tree oil to your palm before dispensing your favorite shampoo into your hand. Massage into your scalp and feel the tingle that stimulates the scalp.

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Believe it or not, one of the best ways to encourage healthier hair is by eating the right foods. While certain people have naturally strong and beautiful hair, others need to nourish hair as often as possible. Scalp scrubs, hair masks, and other DIY hair care products are great for topical application, but different vitamins and minerals help boost hair growth from the inside.

Consuming a diet that lacks a diverse mix of nutrients can lead to hair loss. Specifically, deficiencies in vitamin B12 and vitamin D, biotin, iron, and biotin are associated with hair loss. Spinach, for example, is an excellent source of iron, folate, and vitamins A and C, all of which encourage hair growth. Studies show that proper vitamin A intake can support hair growth, but too much vitamin A can lead to hair loss. Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. That can help fuel your metabolism and aid hair growth.

The vitamin C in pineapple contributes to smoother, shiner, and softer hair. Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It enriches hair follicles as well, helping to improve the thickness, and elasticity of your hair. With that, we hope you enjoy the smoothie that promotes healthier hair.

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