By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Baldness
Herbal decoctions for baldness are a natural remedy that has been used to promote hair growth and treat alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to release their active compounds that can stimulate hair follicles and improve circulation. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with baldness include rosemary, saw palmetto, and biotin-rich burdock root.
By using these decoctions, individuals can experience improved hair growth, thicker hair, and reduced shedding, which can significantly enhance their self-confidence and overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for baldness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Inga alba
- 3. Ginkgo biloba
- 4. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 5. Serenoa repens
- 6. Withania somnifera
- 7. Equisetum arvense
- 8. Urtica dioica
- 9. Panax ginseng
- 10. Arctium lappa
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for baldness?
- What ailments similar to baldness are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with baldness because they stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp, nourishing the hair follicles with vital nutrients and oxygen.
The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing dandruff and other conditions that can contribute to hair loss. Additionally, aloe's natural antifungal and antibacterial properties help to prevent infections that can lead to balding.
By promoting healthy scalp conditions, herbal aloe decoctions create an environment conducive to robust hair growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with baldness.
- Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, particularly aloe-emodin, have been shown to promote hair growth by increasing the length of the anagen phase, the active growth phase of hair follicles.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly acemannan, have been found to stimulate collagen synthesis, improve skin elasticity, and promote hair growth by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly aloin, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce hair loss by protecting hair follicles from damage and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most used part of Aloe vera due to their high concentration of aloin, a compound believed to promote hair growth and treat alopecia.
- Roots: Roots of Aloe vera are sometimes used to make decoctions, possibly due to their alleged ability to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
- Buds: Buds of Aloe vera may be used to make decoctions, possibly due to their purported ability to nourish and strengthen hair follicles, leading to improved hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for baldness.
- Chop 100g of fresh aloe vera leaves into small pieces and set aside for 30 minutes.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera with 500ml of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the mixture to infuse slowly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before refrigerating for later use.
2. Inga alba
White inga decoctions helps with baldness because of its unique combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy hair growth.
The decoction's ability to stimulate blood flow to the scalp increases oxygenation and nourishment to the hair follicles, reviving dormant ones and strengthening existing strands.
Additionally, white inga's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated scalps, creating an ideal environment for new hair growth to flourish.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Inga alba decoctions that help with baldness.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Inga alba decoctions may help with baldness by promoting hair growth and improving hair follicle health due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids present in Inga alba decoctions may help with baldness by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Tannins: Tannins in Inga alba decoctions may help with baldness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp, creating a favorable environment for hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white inga used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Leaves: They are used due to their possible anti-inflammatory properties which may promote hair growth and reduce inflammation in the scalp.
- Barks: They are used due to their potential antioxidant properties, which can help protect the hair follicles and promote hair growth.
- Roots: They are used due to their possible adaptogenic properties, which may help reduce stress and promote hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white inga for baldness.
- Harvest inga alba leaves and stems at dawn when the plant is most potent and full of nutrients.
- Dry the harvested plant material in the shade for 2-3 weeks to preserve its medicinal properties.
- Weigh out 30 grams of dried plant material and add it to 1 liter of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to create a medicinal tea ready for consumption.
3. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with baldness because of its unique composition, rich in antioxidants and flavonoids.
These compounds help to stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp, reducing inflammation, and strengthening hair follicles. The decoction also promotes collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and firmness, making it an effective remedy for addressing thinning or receding hairlines.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated scalps, creating a healthy environment for hair growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with baldness.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids may help reduce inflammation and promote blood flow to the scalp, which can contribute to hair growth.
- Terpenoids: Bilobalide may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help protect hair follicles from damage and promote healthy hair growth.
- Ginkgo flavone glycosides: These compounds may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to promote hair growth and improve scalp health.
- Seeds: The seeds are thought to be effective in stimulating hair growth due to their high content of ginkgolides and bilobalide.
- Buds: The buds contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help to promote hair growth and reduce inflammation in the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for baldness.
- Gather 2 to 4 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per 1 cup of water for a standard decoction.
- Combine ginkgo biloba leaves with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup or container.
- Allow the decoction to cool before consuming it and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
4. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with baldness because they stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in rosemary also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to hair loss. Additionally, rosemary's natural astringent properties can help to tighten pores on the scalp, reducing the appearance of thinning or balding areas.
By increasing circulation and nourishing the hair follicles, rosemary decoctions can help to promote thicker, fuller hair and even regrow lost locks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with baldness.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to promote hair growth and reduce inflammation associated with androgenetic alopecia, a common cause of baldness.
- Carnosic acid: A secoiridoid, carnosic acid has been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect hair follicles from damage and promote hair growth.
- Rosmaritol: A diterpene, rosmaritol has been reported to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to hair loss and baldness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of antioxidants and essential oils, which may help promote hair growth and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing dandruff and promoting a healthy scalp.
- Flowers: Employed for their potential to stimulate blood flow and reduce stress, which can contribute to hair loss prevention and growth promotion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for baldness.
- Gather 1/4 cup of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves or 2 tablespoons of dried leaves for the decoction.
- Combine the gathered rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 2 cups of water in a saucepan for herbal infusion.
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup for consumption.
5. Serenoa repens
Saw palmetto decoctions helps with baldness because it addresses the underlying hormonal imbalance that contributes to hair loss.
The natural fatty acids in saw palmetto block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and leads to thinning and balding.
By reducing DHT levels, saw palmetto decoctions promote healthy hair growth, strengthen hair roots, and increase the length of the anagen phase, resulting in thicker, fuller hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens decoctions that help with baldness.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with baldness by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Serenoa repens decoctions help combat baldness by possessing antioxidant properties, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage and promote hair growth.
- Sterols: Beta-sitosterol, a sterol found in Serenoa repens, may help alleviate baldness by blocking the effects of DHT on hair follicles, promoting hair growth, and improving scalp health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used for treating baldness due to their high concentration of active compounds, particularly saw palmetto extract.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used, as they contain some of the same active compounds as the roots, although in smaller quantities.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for baldness.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried serenoa repens roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Cut the dried serenoa repens roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
- Steep 10 grams of the cut roots in 1 liter of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
6. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha decoctions helps with baldness because they promote a healthy scalp environment, stimulating hair growth and reducing inflammation that can lead to hair loss.
The antioxidants and adaptogens in ashwagandha help protect the scalp from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, while also enhancing circulation to nourish hair follicles.
This natural remedy has been shown to increase hair density, thickness, and pigmentation, helping to reverse baldness and promote a fuller, healthier head of hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera decoctions that help with baldness.
- Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have been found to promote hair growth by increasing the length and thickness of hair follicles, and by reducing hair loss due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Withaferin a: This alkaloid has been shown to have anti-androgenic effects, which can help in reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Withanoside iv: This withanolide derivative has been found to have antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, which can help protect hair follicles from damage and promote hair growth by reducing oxidative stress and cell death.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Leaves: They contain a rich source of antioxidants and are often used to promote hair growth and reduce stress.
- Seeds: They are used as a natural remedy to improve scalp health and stimulate hair growth due to their high content of fatty acids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for baldness.
- Gather 3-6 grams of dried withania somnifera root and 1 liter of purified water for decoction.
- Boil the water in a saucepan for 5-10 minutes on a medium heat setting.
- Add the dried withania somnifera root to the boiling water and let it steep for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
7. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail decoctions helps with baldness because of its unique composition, rich in silicates and silicon.
These essential minerals strengthen hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth and improving scalp circulation. Additionally, horsetail's antioxidants and flavonoids help protect the hair shaft from damage caused by free radicals, reducing brittleness and breakage.
As a result, field horsetail decoctions can help to promote thicker, fuller, and healthier-looking hair, addressing baldness and other hair-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense decoctions that help with baldness.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce scalp inflammation and promote a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Phenolic acids: They have antioxidant properties, which can help protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and promote hair growth by reducing damage caused by free radicals.
- Saponins: These compounds may help improve blood flow to the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth by increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Roots: They are used for their supposed hair growth-stimulating properties.
- Stems: The stems are used in some traditional remedies to treat baldness due to their potential to stimulate hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for baldness.
- Harvest equisetum arvense fresh or dried roots and rhizomes in quantities of 10 to 20 grams for decoction.
- Rinse the harvested material with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the roots.
- Combine the cleaned equisetum arvense with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow for the extraction of active compounds.
- Strain the decoction using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material.
8. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with baldness because it increases blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
The decoction's rich antioxidants and vitamins B and C nourish the follicles, strengthening them against damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors. Additionally, stinging nettle's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation that can contribute to hair loss.
As a result, regular consumption of stinging nettle decoctions may help stimulate thicker, fuller hair growth and even reverse balding patterns.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with baldness.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help stimulate hair growth by promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting cell death in hair follicles.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin, a flavonoid present in Urtica dioica, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, creating a conducive environment for hair growth.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to exhibit anti-androgenic activity, which may help reduce the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss and baldness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are the most commonly used part for making decoctions to address baldness due to their high concentration of urticine, which is believed to stimulate hair growth.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are also widely used for their purported ability to promote hair growth by increasing blood flow and stimulating the scalp.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are another frequently used part in decoctions for baldness, possibly due to their high content of antioxidants and other compounds that may help nourish the scalp and promote hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for baldness.
- Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Wash the harvested plant material with cold water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
- Chop the washed plant material into small pieces and combine 25 grams with 500 milliliters of water.
- Bring the chopped plant material and water mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
9. Panax ginseng
Ginseng decoctions helps with baldness because they promote blood circulation to the scalp, stimulating hair growth.
The herbal extracts also contain antioxidants that help protect the hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals, leading to a stronger and thicker mane. Additionally, ginseng has been shown to reduce inflammation and stress, which are common underlying causes of hair loss.
By addressing these underlying issues, ginseng decoctions can help promote healthy hair growth and even reverse balding patterns.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng decoctions that help with baldness.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins help with baldness by promoting hair growth through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may enhance the health and longevity of hair follicles.
- Panaxynol: This lignan compound has been shown to inhibit the formation of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss, thereby helping to promote hair growth and prevent baldness.
- Ginsenoside rg3: This specific ginsenoside has been found to have a protective effect on hair follicles by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which may help to maintain the health of hair follicles and promote hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly ginsenosides, which are believed to stimulate hair growth.
- Rhyzomes: They contain similar compounds as the roots and are often used as a substitute when roots are not available, offering potential benefits for hair growth.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than roots and rhyzomes, leaves may still provide some benefits for hair growth due to their content of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for baldness.
- Harvest 3-9 grams of panax ginseng roots that are 3-5 years old.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Boil 2-3 cups of water in a pot for 5-10 minutes to prepare the water.
- Add the chopped roots to the boiling water and simmer for 30-60 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids to obtain the herbal decoction.
10. Arctium lappa
Burdock decoctions helps with baldness because it promotes healthy hair growth by stimulating blood circulation to the scalp, which in turn increases oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the hair follicles.
The anti-inflammatory properties of burdock root also help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to hair loss.
Additionally, burdock decoctions contain antioxidants that help protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy and full head of hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa decoctions that help with baldness.
- Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, may help with baldness by reducing inflammation and improving scalp health, creating a conducive environment for hair growth.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, such as lup-20(29)-ene-3β-ol, present in Arctium lappa, might help with baldness by exerting anti-androgenic effects, blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.
- Alkaloids: Lappa alkaloids, a class of compounds found in Arctium lappa, may help with baldness by promoting hair growth through their potential to stimulate hair follicle activity and increase the length of the anagen phase, the active growth phase of hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make decoctions for baldness.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of inulin, a prebiotic that may help stimulate hair growth.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain a significant amount of mucilage, which may help to promote hair growth and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: They are used due to their rich content of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that may help to promote hair growth and reduce oxidative stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for baldness.
- Harvest 5-10 dried roots of arctium lappa and clean them thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and measure out 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water.
- Combine the chopped roots with 1 cup of water in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container to remove solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for baldness?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with baldness is a blend of saw palmetto, ashwagandha, and rosemary.
Saw palmetto helps block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. Ashwagandha reduces stress and promotes hair growth by regulating cortisol levels.
Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth. Taking these decoctions together can help slow down hair loss and even stimulate new hair growth, although individual results may vary.
Consult a healthcare professional before starting any herbal remedy.
What ailments similar to baldness are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to baldness/decoctions.html">baldness/decoctions.html">baldness that are treated with herbal decoctions are hair thinning, premature graying, and dandruff.
Decoctions of herbs like amla, ashwagandha, and bhringaraj are used to promote hair growth, strengthen hair follicles, and prevent further damage.
Other conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis can also be treated with herbal decoctions, which help to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.