Garlic for Hair Growth

Hair is mainly composed of protein, sulfur and water. Garlic can help hair grow, adding shine and smoothness due to the rich element of sulfur it contains.

Garlic's high sulfur content can stimulate your hair growth.

History

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been around since the beginning of recorded history, used for food as well as healing. Carmia Borek, Ph.D., explains, "Egyptian tombs, dating back to close to 5,700 years ago, were found to contain sketches of garlic and clay sculptures of the bulb."

Features

The protein that gives hair its strength is keratin, and keratin is abundant with sulfur. According to Dr. Borek, "Garlic contains at least four times more sulfur than other high sulfur vegetables---onion, broccoli and cauliflower."

Expert Insight

A 2007 study by scientists at the University of Medical Sciences in Iran revealed garlic gel applied topically with betamethasone cream has proven to be effective in growing hair on patients with alopecia areata, a "recurrent, nonscarring type of hair loss."

Effects

Massaging garlic oil on the scalp and leaving it on overnight stimulates hair growth, according to a group of nurses specializing in hair-loss treatments.

Warning

People taking medications should consult a doctor before consuming garlic.

References

• PubMed: Combination of Topical Garlic Gel and Betamethasone Valerate Cream in the Treatment of Localized Alopecia Areata
• Smartbodyz Nutrition: Garlic, the Bountiful Bulb
• Nutrient Glossary

Resources

• Hair Loss Remedy: Natural Remedies
• DocStoc: Important News About Hair Loss and Natural Treatment
• Wellness Advocate: Sulfur