Alopecia—or in layman’s term, hair loss—is the process wherein hair gradually starts falling out and stops growing. There are different speculations as to why and how this happens.
Conventionally, hair loss is treated through hair loss drugs, lotions, creams, light therapy, and surgeries. However, there are alternative means as well, that is, involving the use of herbs.
Saw palmetto, rosemary, stinging nettle, horsetail, grape seed, ginseng, and green tea are just some of the most popular herbs used to treat hair loss and promote the overall hair and scalp health. Licorice root is an important addition to these hair loss treatments natural in their mode of preparation and application.
Licorice is native to Eurasia, Australia, and North and South America. There are approximately twenty species of this herb and are usually small shrubs with pinnate leaves. When it comes to treating hair loss, its root is usually used.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the root of licorice is used for types of hair loss treatments natural in ingredients, that is, a remedy using only herbs. When taken in small amounts, licorice root extracts can serve as a tonic to the adrenal glands.
Those who have stomach ulcers, bronchitis, and sore throat can also use licorice as a dietary supplement. The root is rich in B-complex vitamins, choline, phosphorous, potassium, phytoestrogens, flavonoids, amines, essential oil, protein, and fat. These elements and compounds have been found to be effective in promoting the entire hair and scalp health.
Specifically, its estrogen-enhancing effect in the body can make a difference in hair growth. Licorice root extracts are often found in hair rinses used for hair loss treatments natural in improving hair growth and treating dandruff. It is also available in capsules and tablets.
Taking these extracts in large doses can increase blood pressure, decrease potassium levels, cause heart problems, and lead to water retention. Pregnant women are specifically advised to ingesting only small amounts of licorice as it can cause preterm labor when taken in large doses.
