Current natural minoxidil alternatives are aloe vera, lavender, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, hibiscus, saw palmetto, capsaicin, pumpkin seed oil, reishi mushroom, viola verecunda extract rose petals, and ginseng.
In one study, topical rosemary was about as effective as a hair loss medication called Minoxidil that is commonly used to treat male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness. Rosemary is believed to stimulate hair growth by improving scalp blood circulation and modulating inflammatory responses in the body.
When compared to the 2% minoxidil solution, rosemary oil possesses similar effects in promoting hair growth and inhibiting the side effects of the itchy scalp.
Natural alternative: South Korean researchers discover plant extract that works as well as minoxidil. Study confirms that Viola verecunda extract is as effective at protecting against hair loss as conventional treatments such as minoxidil.
Neoxyl is an alternative to Minoxidil and other hair growth lotions. Minoxidil has limited effectiveness and has many negative side effects. Neofollics lotion is 41% more effective than Minoxidil on the growth of dermal papilla cells. It has 95% user satisfaction, according to research.
Current natural minoxidil alternatives are aloe vera, lavender, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, hibiscus, saw palmetto, capsaicin, pumpkin seed oil, reishi mushroom, viola verecunda extract rose petals, and ginseng.
Ashwagandha helps in the visible reduction of hair loss, by strengthening the hair follicles. It is a great ingredient for stress induced hairfall, but it is recommended to consult a certified Ayurvedic Doctor before using Ashwagandha.
Rosemary Oil vs Minoxidil
A comparison study between the hair-growth-boosting properties of rosemary oil and minoxidil showed that rosemary is equally as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia (Skinmed - Dermatology for the Clinician).
Results showed that rosemary essential oil was just as effective a minoxidil. During the process, it helped the side effect of itchy scalp more successfully than minoxidil. Another study of rosemary leaf extract (different from the essential oil) showed it stimulated hair growth.
While there are a few essential oils that can help to stimulate hair growth, Henry said that rosemary oil tends to be a top choice. "Rosemary oil is equivalent to 2.5 percent minoxidil, which is pretty impressive," she said.
People with DHT-related hair loss received either rosemary oil or minoxidil for 6 months. At 3 months, neither group had more hair. By 6 months, both groups saw significant increases in hair growth.
Foods rich in lycopene such as tomatoes, watermelons, carrots, and mangoes naturally block DHT production. Biotin-rich foods like berries, liver, legumes, oily fish, and bananas condition the skin and scalp creating an overall healthy environment for strong hair.
Ashwagandha: 96.2 ng/dL, 95% CI, 54.7, 137.5; p = 0.004), So testosterone levels went up with ashwagandha. Increase in testosterone increases Free T and DHT levels which causes hair loss. Other REPORTED SIDE EFFECTS ARE MOOD SWINGS AND ACNE OUTBREAKS AND NIPPLE SENSITIVITY.
However, to obtain the cortisol-lowering effects we are looking for in order to optimize hair health, ashwagandha needs to be taken on a daily basis for a period of at least 12 weeks.
To promote hair growth, you need to increase your protein intake, especially by consuming food like fish, beans, nuts, and whole grains. Hair follicles are mostly made of protein, and the lack of it promotes hair loss. Proteins 'feed' the hair from the inside.
Biotin assists in thickening your hair as it promotes follicle regrowth (Byrdie). Overall, sweet almond oil is known to make your hair stronger and less prone to split ends, meaning that the process of excessively losing damaged hair is reduced (Healthline).
Hibiscus is thought to help stimulate hair follicles, increase follicle size, and increase hair growth. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi, also called bacopa, is a creeping herb used in Ayurveda medicine. It contains alkaloids thought to activate proteins responsible for hair growth.
The short answer is yes. "Rosemary essential oil can help stimulate healthy, thick hair," affirms Dr. Graf. "The oil can speed up the process of cell turnover and growth, which can work as a natural remedy to grow thicker hair.
Some people anecdotally say that it has made their hair loss less dramatic and helped with their male-pattern baldness, but you can't regrow a large section of hair using Minoxidil alone. Results from this treatment can also take a long time to see.