Baldness and hair loss isn't something new to this generation or the one before it. The condition has been around for thousands of years. In fact, the Egyptians even applied and consumed strange mixtures and rubbed them on their heads to slow down the balding process. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates applied pigeon stool to his head. And don't forget the founding fathers of America. They wore white wigs to cover their shiny domes. You might not want to put pigeon droppings on your head, but there's a few alternative hair loss remedies you can try to help keep hair where it belongs--on your head.

Alternative medicines and therapies for hair loss have grown more popular over the years as the concern for the safety and potential side effects of prescription medications has increased. However, it's important to remember that just because something is "natural" it doesn't always fall into the same category as "safe." Few herbal supplements and remedies have been scientifically tested for safety and effectiveness but there are a few that stand out as possible hair loss supplements. The most noteworthy is saw palmetto extract, which has gained in popularity as a herbal remedy. Some studies have shown that saw palmetto blocks the enzyme which is responsible for the formation of the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness.

Traditional Chinese medicine also has some advice for hair loss. Baldness is less common among the Asian population but some believe this is related to diet. However, genetics may also play a large role. The Chinese herb He Shou Wu is known to stimulate hair growth and also converts fine hair into thick hair. It may also delay the graying process. You should know that the Medicines and Health Care Products Regulatory Agency in London recently released a warning that stated He Shou Wu may have detrimental effects on the liver. Dabao is another Chinese herb extract that can be used in the treatment for male pattern baldness. Additional herbal remedies include herbal tea, procyanidin B-2 (an extract from apples), and horsetail extract.

In addition to those, there is also an exhaustive list of other herbals, minerals, vegetables, and combinations of compounds and products that make claims for hair regrowth. Of course, you should keep in mind that just because the friendly staff at your neighborhood vitamin outlet store claims a certain product is safe and effective, it may not be entirely true. You should always proceed with caution and consult with your primary care doctor. Some of these minerals and herbs include Advecia, aloe vera, DHEA, evening primose oil, fava beans, L-arginine, Lingzhi, MSM, nettle sting root, olive oil, soy extract, and wheatgrass. There are also several manufactured products that claim to support hair growth or minimize hair loss. These include Ervamatin, Eucapil, Hairgenesis, Himalaya Hair Loss Cream, Nutrifolica, Scalp Med, Procerin, Provillus, Shen Min, and T Bomb 2.

Additional resources:
Women's Hair Loss Treatment
Hair Replacement Systems