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Hair loss solutions can come with considerable caveats, such as price, adverse side effects and invasive procedures. That’s why natural solutions are altogether more appealing because they usually side step many of these drawbacks. Bhringraj oil, which is extracted from the leaves bhringraj plant, has shown promise as a treatment for hair loss.

The herb’s hair growing properties has its roots in Ayurveda, an Indian tradition that aims to balance and heal the body through nutrition.

There is also a scientific basis for these claims.

A study conducted on male albino rats showed that using bhringraj oil increased the number of hair follicles, and was actually more effective than minoxidil (Rogaine) at preventing hair loss.

Minoxidil is one of the main drug treatments for male pattern baldness – a permanent type of hair loss that usually runs in the family.

It is worth noting that the study needs to be repeated in humans for it to be conclusive, though it does show promise.

It is unclear the exact mechanisms that explain bhringraj oil’s ability to stimulate hair growth.

However, bhringraj also contains vitamin E, which is known to fight unstable atoms called free radicals that can impede hair growth.

Vitamin E may increase blood flow, which is said to improve hair health.

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Researchers in one study found that high doses of vitamin E increased blood flow to the eyes in people with type 1 diabetes.

A separate study found that increased blood supply encouraged hair growth and increased the hair follicle and size in mice.

Alternative options

There are a host of hair loss treatments available but most treatments aren’t available on the NHS, so you’ll have to pay for them.

Some wigs are available on the NHS, but you may have to pay unless you qualify for financial help.

There are two types of wig to choose from – synthetic and real-hair and both come with pros and cons.

According to the NHS, real-hair wigs last longer and look more natural than the synthetic equivalents, but they are more costly and harder to maintain.

Synthetic wigs, on the other hand, are easier to maintain and cheaper, but have shorter shelf-life and can be itchy and hot.

Other treatments include:

• Steroid injection
• Steroid creams
• Immunotherapy
• Light treatment
• Tattooing
• Hair transplant
• Scalp reduction surgery
• Artificial hair transplant.

Additional support

Hair loss is an integral part of identity for many people so losing it can cause distress.

“If your hair loss is causing you distress, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling,” advises the NHS.

You may also benefit from joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums.

Try these online support groups:

• Alopecia UK
• Alopecia Awareness.

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