By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Hair Fall
Herbal decoctions for hair fall are a traditional approach to treating hair loss, where herbs are boiled in water to create a concentrated liquid solution.
This remedy helps to nourish and strengthen the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing shedding. Examples of herbal decoctions that can help with hair fall include neem, amla, and bhringaraj, which can be used as a rinse after shampooing.
Regular use can improve lives by restoring thick, luscious locks, boosting confidence, and reducing stress related to hair loss.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for hair fall, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Panax quinquefolius
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Camellia sinensis
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Serenoa repens
- 8. Bacopa monnieri
- 9. Cinnamomum verum
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hair fall?
- What ailments similar to hair fall are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with hair fall because it stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth by increasing oxygenation and nourishment to the follicles.
The antioxidants and essential oils present in rosemary also help to strengthen hair roots, reduce dandruff and itchiness, and improve the overall texture of the hair. Additionally, rosemary's anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe an itchy scalp, reducing inflammation that can lead to hair loss.
By using a rosemary decoction as a final rinse after shampooing, individuals can promote a healthy and luscious mane.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic diterpene, rosmarinic acid helps reduce hair fall by inhibiting the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme, which contributes to inflammation and oxidative stress that can damage hair follicles.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene, carnosic acid helps reduce hair fall by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by free radicals.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene, bornyl acetate helps reduce hair fall by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy scalp and hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and essential oils that promote hair growth and reduce dandruff.
- Stems: They contain rosmarinic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth.
- Flowers: They are a rich source of essential oils that help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can contribute to hair loss by reducing stress-related hair fall.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for hair fall.
- Gather 2-3 sprigs of fresh or dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
- Steep the rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Discard the solids and store the decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use the decoction within 3 days or consume it immediately as a tea.
2. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with hair fall because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The curcumin present in turmeric stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth by nourishing the follicles. Additionally, it reduces oxidative stress and inflammation that can damage hair and lead to breakage, thinning, or falling out.
Regular use of turmeric decoctions as a hair rinse or mask has been shown to strengthen hair roots, improve texture, and reduce shedding, resulting in a fuller and healthier-looking mane.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a potent phenolic compound, helps reduce hair fall by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Tumerone: Tumerone, a sesquiterpene, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and promote hair growth.
- Beta-sitosterol: Beta-sitosterol, a phytosterol, may help reduce hair fall by improving scalp circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high content of curcumin, a natural antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain curcumin and other compounds that help to strengthen hair follicles and reduce hair fall.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high content of volatile oils that help to improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for hair fall.
- Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried turmeric rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
- Combine the ground turmeric powder with 2 cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
3. Panax quinquefolius
American ginseng decoctions helps with hair fall because it promotes overall scalp health, stimulating blood flow to nourish and fortify follicles.
The antioxidants and adaptogenic properties in American ginseng also help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to hair loss.
Additionally, American ginseng has been shown to increase the production of keratin, a protein essential for healthy hair growth, leading to stronger, thicker, and more resilient locks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax quinquefolius decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpene saponins in Panax quinquefolius decoctions may help reduce hair fall by promoting hair growth through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Glycosides: The glycosides present in Panax quinquefolius decoctions may contribute to reducing hair fall by enhancing blood flow to the scalp, which in turn stimulates hair growth and reduces the risk of hair loss.
- Saponins: Saponins in Panax quinquefolius decoctions may help alleviate hair fall by inhibiting the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american ginseng used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Roots: They are used due to their richness in ginsenosides, which are known to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.
- Barks: They are used because of their potential to stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of ginsenosides and other bioactive compounds that can help in preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american ginseng for hair fall.
- Harvest the dried roots of panax quinquefolius in quantities of 6 to 12 grams for decoction.
- Rinse the dried roots with water to remove impurities before use in decoction.
- Combine 6 to 12 grams of the dried roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture at 100 degrees celsius for 10 to 30 minutes to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids after preparation is complete.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with hair fall because it promotes a healthy scalp environment by soothing irritated skin, reducing dandruff, and calming inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera also help to block the formation of DHT, a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in aloe vera help to nourish the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth and strengthening the roots to reduce shedding.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloe-emodin, help reduce hair fall by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Polysaccharides: Aloe vera's polysaccharides, such as acemannan, promote hair growth by stimulating the activity of hair follicle cells, thereby enhancing hair growth and reducing shedding.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants, including ferulic acid and caffeic acid, help prevent hair loss by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp, which can damage hair follicles and lead to hair fall.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: They are rich in aloe vera gel, which contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to nourish and strengthen hair follicles.
- Stems: They contain aloin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth.
- Roots: They are believed to have a stimulating effect on hair growth, which can help to promote the growth of new hair and reduce hair fall.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for hair fall.
- Choose fresh aloe vera leaves with green color and firm texture weighing around 20 grams.
- Wash the aloe vera leaves thoroughly under running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in 200 milliliters of boiling water for 30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a bowl discarding the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool down and then refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life for up to 24 hours.
5. Camellia sinensis
Tea decoctions helps with hair fall because they promote healthy scalp circulation, reducing inflammation and tension that can contribute to hair loss.
The antioxidants and flavonoids present in herbal teas like peppermint, rosemary, and chamomile also strengthen hair follicles and stimulate new growth. Additionally, the soothing properties of these teas can calm irritated scalps and reduce dandruff, creating a favorable environment for healthy hair growth.
Regular consumption of herbal tea decoctions may lead to thicker, fuller locks over time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce hair fall by scavenging free radicals and protecting hair follicles from oxidative damage.
- Quercetin: As a powerful flavonoid, quercetin inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to hair loss and promote a healthy scalp environment.
- Theaflavins: These unique flavonoids, formed during the processing of Camellia sinensis, help reduce inflammation and promote blood flow to the scalp, which may help to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, they help to promote hair growth and reduce dandruff.
- Buds: Containing flavonoids and phenolic acids, they help to regulate hair growth and reduce hair fall due to their antioxidant properties.
- Stems: Rich in flavonoids and other polyphenols, they help to reduce hair fall and promote hair growth by regulating the hair growth cycle.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for hair fall.
- Choose 5 to 6 high-quality camellia sinensis leaves that are free of signs of damage or disease.
- Weigh out 3 teaspoons of the camellia sinensis leaves for a standard decoction.
- Heat 2 cups of water in a pot over medium heat until it reaches a boil.
- Add the weighed camellia sinensis leaves to the boiling water and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer the decoction for 5 to 10 minutes then strain the leaves from the liquid.
6. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with hair fall because they stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy circulation and nourishment of hair follicles.
The decoction's antioxidant properties also help reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can cause hair loss. Additionally, stinging nettle contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining strong, healthy hair.
By using a stinging nettle decoction as a hair rinse or incorporating it into your shampoo routine, you may experience an improvement in hair growth and a reduction in fall.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce scalp inflammation that contributes to hair fall.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids present in Urtica dioica decoctions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could promote hair growth by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Urtica dioica decoctions may stimulate hair growth by promoting the proliferation of hair follicle stem cells, which are essential for hair growth and maintenance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help promote hair growth and reduce shedding.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain compounds that stimulate hair follicles, increase blood flow to the scalp, and help prevent hair loss.
- Stems: Stems are utilized for their ability to nourish the scalp, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff, itchiness, and other scalp issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for hair fall.
- Harvest 25-50g of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems or 100-200g of dried material for decoction.
- Rinse the harvested urtica dioica leaves and stems under cold running water to remove any dirt.
- Combine the urtica dioica leaves and stems with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the urtica dioica decoction to a boil over high heat for 5-10 minutes then reduce heat to low.
- Strain the urtica dioica decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
7. Serenoa repens
Saw palmetto decoctions helps with hair fall because of its ability to block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
DHT shrinks the hair follicles, leading to thinning and eventual balding. By inhibiting this conversion, saw palmetto decoctions can help slow down or even reverse the progression of male pattern baldness.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties promote healthy scalp circulation, which helps to nourish and strengthen hair follicles, promoting thicker, fuller hair growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Furanosesquiterpenoids: These compounds have been found to have anti-androgenic properties, which can help block the effects of DHT and promote hair growth.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the hair follicles from damage and promote a healthy scalp environment conducive to hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Roots: The roots are primarily used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly saponins, which are believed to stimulate hair growth.
- Leaves: The leaves are commonly used in decoctions for hair fall as they are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to promote hair growth and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: The seeds are another important part used in hair fall treatments, as they contain a high amount of saponins, which help to balance the scalp's natural oils and promote hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for hair fall.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dried serenoa repens roots or 60-120 grams of fresh roots.
- Crush the serenoa repens into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
- Combine 2-3 teaspoons of the serenoa repens powder with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container.
8. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi decoctions helps with hair fall because it nourishes the scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.
The herbal formula stimulates blood flow to the scalp, reducing dandruff and itchiness that can contribute to hair loss. It also enhances collagen production, strengthening hair follicles and preventing breakage.
Additionally, Brahmi's antioxidant properties help protect the hair from environmental stressors and damage caused by free radicals, leading to a fuller, thicker, and healthier mane.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Bacosides: Bacosides, a group of saponins, help reduce hair fall by promoting hair growth and strengthening hair follicles due to their ability to improve hair growth factors and antioxidant properties.
- Bacopasides: Bacopasides, another type of saponin, aid in reducing hair fall by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.
- Cynaropicrin: Cynaropicrin, a sesquiterpene lactone, helps alleviate hair fall by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the scalp that may lead to hair loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bacosides, which are believed to promote hair growth and prevent hair fall.
- Roots: They are used for their potential to stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair follicles.
- Stems: They contain compounds that may help to reduce dandruff and promote a healthy scalp, contributing to hair growth and prevention of hair fall.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for hair fall.
- Measure out 20-30 grams of dried bacopa monnieri root and add it to a pot.
- Combine the root with 2 liters of water in the pot and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture cook for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.
9. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon decoctions helps with hair fall because of its unique combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential oils.
The decoction stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth by nourishing the follicles and strengthening the roots. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's antimicrobial properties help combat scalp infections and conditions like dandruff, which can contribute to hair loss.
Regular use of herbal Ceylon cinnamon decoctions may lead to a reduction in hair fall and an improvement in overall hair health and appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Cinnamaldehyde: A phenolic compound that helps reduce hair fall by its antioxidant properties, which protect the hair follicles from damage and promote healthy hair growth.
- Cinnamomin: A lignan that has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the scalp and promoting a healthy environment for hair growth, thereby reducing hair fall.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate scalp irritation and reduce hair fall by creating a soothing environment that promotes healthy hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are commonly used due to their oil content, which helps to promote hair growth and reduce dandruff.
- Leaves: Leaves are widely used in hair care due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to prevent scalp infections and promote healthy hair growth.
- Barks: Barks are often used in decoctions for hair fall as they contain a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for hair fall.
- Gather 5-10 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark and store it in an airtight container for later use.
- Measure 1 cup of water in a pot and bring it to a boil at 212 degrees fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
- Add the measured cinnamomum verum bark to the boiling water and reduce heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove solids.
- Discard the solids and store the prepared herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with hair fall because it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy scalp circulation, nourish the roots, and strengthen hair follicles.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties also soothe an irritated scalp, reducing dandruff and flaking that can contribute to excessive shedding.
Additionally, its ability to balance pH levels and reduce oxidative stress helps to repair damaged hair, promoting thicker, fuller locks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with hair fall.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth and reducing hair loss.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids have been shown to improve blood circulation to the scalp, which may help prevent hair loss by maintaining a healthy blood supply to the hair follicles.
- Ferulic acid: As a phenolic compound, ferulic acid has antioxidant properties that help protect the scalp from oxidative damage, promoting a healthy scalp environment and reducing hair loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for hair fall.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss by improving blood circulation and antioxidant properties.
- Seeds: The seeds contain bilobalide and ginkgolides, which are thought to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth by improving the health of hair follicles.
- Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions that are believed to stimulate hair growth by improving circulation and reducing oxidative stress on the scalp.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for hair fall.
- Gather 2-4 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a trusted source to ensure quality.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves with 1 liter of water in a medium-sized pot.
- Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the ginkgo biloba decoction in the refrigerator for up to 2 days after preparation.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hair fall?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with hair fall is a blend of Amla, Bhringaraj, and Brahmi.
Amla decoction stimulates hair growth and strengthens hair follicles, while Bhringaraj helps to reduce dandruff and itchiness. Brahmi decoction promotes scalp health and balances the pH levels. To make this combination, mix equal quantities of Amla, Bhringaraj, and Brahmi decoctions and apply it to the scalp.
Leave it on for 30 minutes before shampooing for optimal results.
What ailments similar to hair fall are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to hair fall that are treated with herbal decoctions are various skin issues, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Herbal decoctions like neem, turmeric, and aloe vera help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin. Decoctions made from herbs like ginseng and ashwagandha can also treat conditions like dermatitis and rashes, which share similar symptoms with hair fall.
These natural remedies promote overall health and well-being by balancing body functions and soothing skin irritations.