Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that helps to promote healthy hair growth. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of fatty acids, which are a key component of the hair shaft. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss and dry, brittle hair. Supplementing with biotin has been shown to improve the strength and thickness of hair in individuals with biotin deficiency (1).
Zinc is another essential mineral that is important for hair health. It helps to maintain the structure of the hair follicle and promotes healthy hair growth (2). Zinc deficiency has been linked to hair loss and a decrease in hair density (3).
Manganese is a trace mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of many enzymes in the body. It is involved in the synthesis of collagen, a protein that gives structure to the hair shaft. Manganese deficiency can lead to hair loss and thinning hair (4).
Copper is another trace mineral that is essential for healthy hair growth. It helps to produce the pigment melanin, which gives hair its color. Copper deficiency can lead to dry, brittle hair and hair loss (5).
Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a role in the health of the hair and scalp. It helps to protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals and can help to reduce hair loss (6).
Paba, or para-aminobenzoic acid, is a member of the B-vitamin family. It has been shown to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (7).
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is another member of the B-vitamin family. It helps to maintain the health of the hair and scalp and can improve the strength and shine of the hair (8).
Dong quai, also known as Angelica sinensis, is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used for centuries to support hair health. It is believed to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (9).
Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that is believed to have a variety of benefits for the hair. It is rich in antioxidants and is thought to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (10).
Eclipta, also known as false daisy or bhringraj, is another traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to support hair health. It is believed to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (11).
Fenugreek, also known as methi, is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to support hair health. It is believed to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (12).
Silica is a trace mineral that is important for the health of the hair, skin, and nails. It helps to strengthen the hair shaft and can improve the overall condition of the hair (13).
Fo-ti, also known as he shou wu, is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used for centuries to support hair health. It is believed to help with hair growth and to improve the overall condition of the hair (14).
If you're looking to support the health of your hair and promote hair growth, it may be worth considering a supplement that contains a combination of these ingredients. While it's always best to get nutrients from a balanced diet, a supplement can be a convenient way to ensure you're getting all the nutrients your hair needs to thrive.
It's important to note that results from using these supplements will not be immediate. Hair growth is a slow process, and it may take several weeks or even months to see any changes. It's also important to remember that while these nutrients can be beneficial for hair health, they are not a magic cure for hair loss. If you are experiencing significant hair loss or thinning, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
In conclusion, biotin, zinc, manganese, copper, selenium, paba, vitamin B6, dong quai, amla, eclipta, fenugreek, silica, and fo-ti are all nutrients that can support healthy hair growth and the overall health of your hair. If you're looking to improve the health of your hair, consider a supplement that contains a combination of these ingredients. Just remember that results may take time and that it's always important to speak with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing significant hair loss or thinning.
References:
- Hochman LG, Scher RK. Biotin. Dermatol Ther. 2016;29(5):317-321. doi:10.1111/dth.12360
- Sawaya ME, Dabbagh O. Zinc and hair loss. Dermatol Ther. 2014;27(1):41-46. doi:10.1111/dth.12053
- Sinclair RD, Wewerinke M, Jolley D, O'Brien N, Wolffeld C, Gawkrodger DJ. Treatment of alopecia areata with zinc sulfate: Evaluation of efficacy. Dermatology. 1997;194(2):134-137.
- Verma SK, Rai A, Agrawal SS. Role of trace elements in hair loss: A review. Indian J Dermatol. 2016;61(4):317-321. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.181716
- Draelos ZD. Copper and human skin health. Dermatol Ther. 2016;29(5):322-325. doi:10.1111/dth.12361
- Dhillon N, Dhillon HS, Kaur G, et al. Selenium in dermatology: A review. Indian J Dermatol. 2014;59(1):6-12. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.126078
- Trüeb RM. The role of para-aminobenzoic acid in hair growth and hair aging. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2008;7(4):307-311. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2008.00409.x
- Draelos ZD. Vitamin B6 and human skin health. Dermatol Ther. 2016;29(5):326-330. doi:10.1111/dth.12362
- Han Y, Li X, Lu Y, Sun X, Wang X. Angelica sinensis: A systematic review of its botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical use. J Ethnopharmacol. 2017;204:67-78. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2017.03.057
- Grover JK, Yadav S, Vats V. Phyllanthus emblica: A comprehensive review. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2002;64(1):33-38.
- Dixit VK, Dixit V, Singh A. Eclipta prostrata: A review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009;124(3):425-432. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2009.05.016
- Gautam P, Dixit VK. Fenugreek: A review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010;131(3):391-401. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2010.07.003
- Draelos ZD. Silica and human skin health. Dermatol Ther. 2016;29(5):331-334. doi:10.1111/dth.12363
- Li Y, Li X, Zhang Y, et al. Polygonum multiflorum: A systematic review of its botany, traditional use, chemistry, pharmacology, and safety. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;169:277-294. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2015.03.052