HOW CAN GARLIC BE USED TO TREAT HAIR LOSS?

Hair loss is essentially unnatural; it’s a sign of a deficiency or imbalance in the body. So it makes sense that some natural foods can help restore optimum hair health. In this article, I’m going to answer the question: Does garlic help with hair loss?

In a study from 2007 scientists investigated garlic’s effects on hair loss. They found that garlic applied topically to the scalp beat the control group proving that it does have a positive effect on hair.

In this article I’ll review the overall health benefits of garlic, you’ll learn more about the study and all other research into garlic related to hair. You’ll also learn about the best way to incorporate garlic into your hair care routine.

What Is Garlic?

This bulbous plant, closely related to the onion (learn more about using onion juice for hair loss here), has a strong, pungent odour and spicy, heated taste that’s used around the world, both in cooking and in medicine.

The plant, native to central Asia, has been part of human history for centuries. It is used extensively in the Mediterranean, and is a staple seasoning across the globe.

Aside from its incredible seasoning abilities (in the form of whole cloves, flakes, powder, and oil), garlic has also long been admired for its medicinal uses. From its anti-inflammatory effects to its immune boosting capabilities, it’s no wonder that garlic is used twice as much as other common, household supplements. 

For example, garlic contains anti-microbial properties, which means it’s effective at battling bacteria, viruses, fungus, and parasites. The use of garlic, then, can be used to prevent the natural buildup that occurs on your scalp, and leave you with healthier hair follicles and skin.  Another health benefit for those who are struggling with hair loss is garlic’s anti-inflammatory effects. The application of garlic can help to reduce the inflammation and irritation that’s sometimes present with hair loss, and nourish the follicles.

Garlic for Hair Loss: The Science Behind It

In 2007, scientists performed a double-blind study on individuals suffering from alopecia areata. Forty patients were split into two groups of 20. Both groups received a twice-daily application of betamethasone cream 0.1%, a corticosteroid commonly used for swelling, itching, and general irritation associated with a number of skin conditions.One group, however, was also treated with an odourless 5% garlic gel which was combined with their betamethasone cream.


The results? Well, they speak for themselves.

As is shown in the above table, individuals who received a combination of the betamethasone cream and garlic gel saw, on average, a 1.5cm2 reduction in patch size. The placebo group, however, only saw a 0.4cm2 reduction in patch size over the course of the study. As you may have noticed, this particular study focused on individuals with alopecia areata, and you may be asking yourself, “how does this scientific study relate to male-pattern baldness?” Simply put, while alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness) are caused by different factors, the antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of garlic can still be beneficial for those suffering from male-pattern baldness. The truth is, the mechanism behind garlic’s hair growing powers are still unknown, but the health benefits associated with the consumption and supplementation of garlic are indisputable.

Are There Side Effects Associated With Garlic Supplementation?

While garlic is a food that’s regularly consumed around the world, there are a few circumstances in which garlic consumption and supplementation may lead to unpleasant side effects. For example, individuals with digestive problems, bleeding disorders, or low blood sugar are advised to take caution when supplementing, as garlic can cause a further digestive upset, increase the risk of bleeding, and cause dangerously low blood sugar. For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, regular consumption should be safe, but application to the skin and supplementary consumption may be unsafe and is, therefore, best to be avoided. Garlic supplements should be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, even in individuals with no known blood disorders, so as to avoid risk of prolonged or excessive bleeding.

When applying to the skin, raw garlic is known to cause irritation similar to a burn.

Lastly, while uncommon, an allergic reaction is possible. If you suspect an intolerance or allergy to garlic, avoid consumption and application. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, nausea, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.

How to Use Garlic for Hair Growth

Whether you’d like to increase your consumption and supplementation of garlic for hair growth, or you’re convinced that garlic is a beneficial supplement for all-around health, then the below ideas will help you to incorporate garlic into your regular routine.  

Apply Directly to the Scalp

If you’re looking to avoid over-complicated recipes and simply want to add garlic to your regular hair care routine with no bells and whistles, then applying garlic oil directly to the scalp may be the method that’s right for you.

The process is simple: cut a clove of garlic into two and rub directly onto the scalp. This no-fuss method is the easiest one out there, and it only takes a matter of minutes.

It’s important to note that raw garlic can have a burning effect, and overuse can lead to skin sensitivity and irritation.  Apply It As a Paste.

For people suffering from male-pattern baldness, this is an easy way to target areas of hair loss.

As a general precaution, it’s a good idea to test this paste on a small patch of skin prior to applying to your scalp.

Garlic paste can be made simply and cheaply at home, and all it requires is two ingredients: fresh garlic and olive oil. I also like to add ginger to help boost circulation to the scalp.

3-Step Garlic/Ginger Paste
Peel and crush the garlic and ginger
Add the crushed garlic, along with olive oil, to a food processor
Blend the mix until completely blended and no chunks or lumps are present.

That’s it, it really is that easy! In terms of measurements, 1 TBSP of olive oil to 1 clove of garlic should suffice, but as clove sizes vary, feel free to use more or less olive oil until the paste is to your liking.

Apply the paste and leave it on overnight, and then rinse away and wash with your favourite shampoo in the morning.

Add It To Your Diet

You probably already consume garlic on a regular basis, but if you’re looking to up your intake, there are a few simple adjustments you can make.

First, if the taste of garlic is not your favourite, consider supplementing with a garlic tablet. This is also a great option for individuals who regularly suffer from heartburn or general digestive upset.

Of course, garlic can also be easily added to your favorite recipes. Mince garlic and add to salad, soup, chicken dishes, and rice. Or, roast an entire bulb of garlic and enjoy the sweet, spicy cloves as a snack or complement to your main dish.

Conclusion

As the body of research surrounding garlic and hair loss treatment continues to grow, it becomes more and more obvious that garlic can play a role in hair growth.

While more research needs to be done, particularly on human subjects, you can still benefit from the plethora of health benefits related to garlic as mentioned above.

Source: https://www.hairlossrevolution.com

Hair loss is a huge problem for both men and women.  The more we talk about it the better!  I hope this article will be of some use to you! Please let me know!