HAIR FALL LOSING ELEGANCY AND PERSONALITY?? – HOMOEOPATHIC HAIR CARE

 Abstract 

 

Homoeopathy is considered as one of the very best alternative system for treating hair loss. Hair loss can affect scalp or entire body. It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or medications. Anyone like men, women and children can experience hair loss. Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from scalp. Hereditary hair loss with age is the most common cause of baldness. Some people prefer to let their baldness run its course untreated and unhidden. 

Introduction

 

Hair is almost like a social status for both men and women, and also children. It is society’s expectation that you will have a head of hair! Hair states ones personality and adds additional beauty. Hair is a statement about yourself, how you have your hair. Women who desire to be beautiful almost always start with their hair. There’s nothing more stunning than long, shiny, healthy hair! Elegant and versatile, long hair gives women many options when it comes to styling and creating new looks. Even though the hair is a dead tissue, it suffers from numerous hazards mirroring hair problems. Everyone who desire to be beautiful and takes hair care should understand the basics of hair.

Most people normally shed 50 to 100 hairs a day. This usually doesn't cause noticeable thinning of scalp hair because new hair is growing in at the same time. Hair loss occurs when this cycle of hair growth and shedding is disrupted or when the hair follicle is destroyed and replaced with scar tissue.Hair loss can appear in many different ways, depending on what's causing it. It can come on suddenly or gradually. Some types of hair loss are temporary, and others are permanent.

Causes of Alopecia

The exact cause of hair loss may not be fully understood, but it's usually related to one or more of the following factors: Family history (heredity), Hormonal changes, Medical conditions, Medications

Family history - The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition called male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns — a receding hairline and bald spots in men and thinning hair in women. Heredity also affects the age at which begin to lose hair, the rate of hair loss and the extent of baldness. Pattern baldness is most common in men and can begin as early as puberty. This type of hair loss may involve both hair thinning and miniaturization (hair becomes soft, fine and short).

Hormonal changes and medical conditions - A variety of conditions can cause hair loss, including: Hormonal changes and imbalances can cause temporary hair loss. This could be due to pregnancy, childbirth or the onset of menopause. Hormone levels are also affected by the thyroid gland, so thyroid problems may cause hair loss.

Patchy hair loss - This type of nonscarring hair loss is called alopecia areata. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks hair follicles — causing sudden hair loss that leaves smooth, roundish bald patches on the skin.

Scalp infections - Infections, such as ringworm, can invade the hair and skin of your scalp, leading to scaly patches and hair loss. Once infections are treated, hair generally grows back.

Other skin disorders - Diseases that cause scarring alopecia may result in permanent loss at the scarred areas. These conditions include lichen planus, some types of lupus and sarcoidosis.

Hair-pulling disorder - This condition, also called trichotillomania, causes people to have an irresistible urge to pull out their hair, whether it's from the scalp, the eyebrows or other areas of the body.

Medications - Hair loss can be caused by drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, high blood pressure and birth control. Intake of too much vitamin A may cause hair loss as well.

Hair loss can also result from Radiation therapy to the head. The hair may not grow back the same as it was before.

Many people experience a general thinning of hair several months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is temporary. Examples of trigger events include sudden or excessive weight loss, a high fever, surgery, or a death in the family.

Certain hairstyles and treatments. Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull your hair tight, such as pigtails or cornrows, can cause traction alopecia. Hot oil hair treatments and permanents can cause inflammation of hair follicles that leads to hair loss. If scarring occurs, hair loss could be permanent.

Clinical Presentation

 

Hair loss can appear in many different ways, depending on what's causing it. It can come on suddenly or gradually. Some types of hair loss are temporary, and others are permanent.

Signs and symptoms of hair loss may include:

Gradual thinning on top of head. This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting both men and women as they age. In men, hair often begins to recede from the forehead in a line that resembles the letter M. Women typically retain the hairline on the forehead but have a broadening of the part in their hair.

Circular or patchy bald spots. Some people experience smooth, coin-sized bald spots. This type of hair loss usually affects just the scalp, but it sometimes also occurs in beards or eyebrows. In some cases, your skin may become itchy or painful before the hair falls out.

Sudden loosening of hair. A physical or emotional shock can cause hair to loosen. Handfuls of hair may come out when combing or washing your hair or even after gentle tugging. This type of hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning and not bald patches.

Full-body hair loss. Some conditions and medical treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can result in the loss of hair all over your body. The hair usually grows back.

Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp. This is a sign of ringworm. It may be accompanied by broken hair, redness, swelling and, at times, oozing.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis made with help of physical exam, medical history, and family history and with some tests.

Blood test - This may help uncover medical conditions related to hair loss, such as thyroid disease.

Pull test - gently pulls several dozen hairs to see how many come out. This helps determine the stage of the shedding process.

Scalp biopsy - scrapes samples from the skin or from a few hairs plucked from the scalp to examine the hair roots. This can help determine whether an infection is causing hair loss.

Light microscopy - Microscopy helps uncover possible disorders of the hair shaft and to examine hairs trimmed at their bases.

MANAGEMENT

These tips may help avoid preventable types of hair loss:

· Eat a nutritionally balanced diet.

· Avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns or ponytails.

· Avoid compulsively twisting, rubbing or pulling your hair.

· Treat your hair gently when washing and brushing. A wide-toothed comb may help prevent pulling out hair.

· Avoid harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments and permanents.

· A good daily multivitamin containing zinc, vitamin B, folate, iron, and calcium is a reasonable choice, although there is no good evidence that vitamins have any meaningful benefit in alopecia. Newer studies suggest that vitamin D may be somewhat helpful and worth considering. Specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies like iron or vitamin B12 may be diagnosed by blood tests and treated.

· Multiple vitamins, including biotin, have been promoted for hair growth, but solid scientific studies for many of these claims are lacking. 

Home natural remedies

 

· Onion Juice for hair growth - This remedy is regarded as one of most effective and oldest ones. The reason behind is that it contains sulphur that boosts collagen production in the tissues and helps in the re-growth of hair. Don’t let its strong smell keep you away from using it, because it goes off just after one rinse. To try this remedy, cut a few slices of onion and squeeze out its juice (either by mashing it or grating it) and apply it on your scalp for about 10-15 minutes. Let it work its magic and then rinse it off with a mild shampoo.

· Coconut Milk - it is rich in iron, potassium and essential fats, take coconut milk from a fresh coconut, to it add half a squeeze of lemon, 4 drops of essential lavender oil. Mix it thoroughly and apply it on your scalp, leave it on for 4-5 hours and then rinse it off.”

· Apple Cider Vinegar – This vinegar gently cleanses the scalp and maintains the pH balance of the hair thereby accelerating hair growth.  Start for making a diluted solution by mixing 75ml of it in one litre of water for a larger batch or 15 ml of it to a cup of warm filtered water for a smaller batch.

· Egg Mask – This home remedy is used all over the world for quick and natural hair growth. As we know, eggs contain high levels of proteins which help in the formation of new hair. It is also rich in sulphur, zinc, iron, selenium, phosphorous and iodine.
For the egg mask, separate one egg white in a bowl and add one teaspoon of olive oil ( you can also use grape seed oil or lavender oil )and honey. Make a paste of it and apply it all over your hair and scalp for about 20 minutes. Rinse it off with cool water and some shampoo.  

· Fenugreek– This herb is also an age-old remedy for hair growth problems. It contains proteins and nicotinic acid; protein-enriched diets have been known to encourage stimulation of hair growth. Add a tablespoon of this herb and water in a grinder till a smooth paste it formed. Add a little coconut oil (or milk) to it and apply on your hair and scalp for half an hour. Wash it off with a mild shampoo.

· Green tea, as you know is super rich in antioxidants and that helps in boosting hair growth and preventing hair loss. Apply warm green tea (from the used tea bags) over your scalp and leave it for an hour. Wash it off with cool water.

· Indian Gooseberry (amla) – This magical fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in Vitamin C and that accelerates hair growth. All you need to do is, mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder or juice with equal amounts of lime juice and let it dry. Rinse it off with some warm water. It will also prevent hair pigmentation.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

   Homoeopathic mode of treatment has good scope and can aid regrowth of hair. Homoeopathic medicines stimulate the hair roots to promote regrowth. The medicines used in Homoeopathy to aid hair regrowth are all of natural origin and therefore, safe for use among persons of all age groups. Hair-loss is again just an indicator that there is something not well in our body. The hairs may fall due to a local infection or due to a systemic disorder or deficiency. The treatment also varies accordingly. The following homoeopathic medicines are often found indicated in cases of hair fall:

Medicine	Indication
Arsenic album	alopecia due to use of metallic arsenic, scalp itches intolerable. Circular patches of bare spots, hair fall in debilitated persons. Patients is mentally restless and very anxious about his/her health or hairfall. Sensitive to cold in general and cold drinks. Fastidious temperament.
Fluoricum Acidum	It is considered excellent for hair loss, especially alopecia areata, where the patient loses hair from spots on the scalp. It is also adept at dealing with the resulting hair fall after a period of sickness, hair breakage, hair fall caused by syphilis, and hair gets tangled a lot. It is recommended by a lot of homeopathic doctors.
Phosphorus	It is a medicine that is capable of curing a wide array of diseases. While it is popular for treating alopecia, it is also used to heal issues of the gastrointestinal tract, blood, nervous tissue, and bones.
Calcarea Carbonica	Calcarea Carb, has been found to be one of the best homeopathic medicines for hair regrowth. It is often prescribed to patients for whom hair loss is accompanied by intense itching and sweating of the scalp.
Vinca Minor	Vinca Minor is efficient in treating alopecia when it is accompanied by dandruff. It is also used to treat abnormal hair growth i.e. when the hair grows out like white wool.
Silicea	It is hard to believe that this deep acting remedy is inert before it undergoes potentization. It is used to treat a wide range of diseases. Homeopaths commonly prescribe Silicea for baldness accompanied with pain. It also treats skin conditions like eczema, which may sometimes cause dandruff.
Baryta Carbonica	This homeopathic cure is administered to young people suffering from premature baldness. It is generally used to treat timid people who are experiencing baldness along with throat complaints and issues such as tonsillitis.
Lycopodium Clavatum	This is one of the best homeopathic medicines for preventing a number of hair-related problems. Lycopodium is a wonderful remedy for hair loss, premature graying of the hair, and even baldness. It is prepared from club moss (fungus), which is potentized for its usage. This homeopathic medicine also tackles premature balding.
Psorinum	Psorinum is the best treatment for hair loss that is caused due to dandruff. Dandruff is a common result of skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Psorinum tackles the root of the cause, reducing hair fall and dandruff at the same time.
Mezereum	This is another medicine that efficiently deals with conditions of the skin such as rashes, lesions, and psoriasis. It tackles hair fall in people who have crusty scalps and infected scalps with pus. It is also ideal for encouraging hair growth.
Kali Sulphuricum	When the dandruff is yellow in color, Kali Sulphuricum is a good treatment to resort to. It promises great results and is often prescribed by homeopaths to patients who complain of dandruff and hair loss together.
Mercurius solubilis	falling of hair due to syphilis. Alopecia with eruptions on scalp; discharge from eruptions is fetid and accompanied by burning pains in scalp. Patient has profuse perspiration, excessive thirst and salivation.
Natrum Muriaticum	The interesting thing about Natrum Muriaticum is that it is made from common salt through potentization. It is used to treat a myriad of issues and is perfect for treating post childbirth hair fall. It is also prescribed for hair fall in women suffering from anemia.
Pulsatilla Pratensis	This is administered to women suffering from post-delivery hair loss. The people to whom this medicine is prescribed often report a lack of thirst and a desire for breathing in fresh air. It is also administered to women who have trouble in digesting fatty food.
Selenium	falling of hair from whole head leaving the scalp smooth and hairless (alopecia universalis). Falling of hair from eyebrows and face giving a strange appearance.
Vinca minor	bald spots with itching of the skin, oozing moisture, matting hair together. Irresistible desire to scratch. Hair-loss, sharp and well defined, circumscribed patches which leave the scalp smooth and white or gray hair may grow on the bald spots like white wool.
Wiesbaden	the hair grows rapidly and become darker by the use of this remedy. Arnica and Cantharis are also known to promote hair growth.

 

Conclusion

The aim of homoeopathy is not only to treat hair loss but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several well-proved remedies are available for homoeopathic treatment of hair loss that can be selected on the basis of cause, location, modalities and extension of the hair loss. Hair-loss is again just an indicator that there is something not well in your body. The hairs may fall due to a local infection or due to a systemic disorder or deficiency. The treatment also varies accordingly. The main advantage of opting for Homoeopathic medicines for hair regrowth is the absence of any related toxic side effects.For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homoeopathic doctor in person. Homoeopathy has to treat the cause and the person a a whole, after due individualization of every patient.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HAEMORROIDS – NON SURGICAL INTERVENTION WITH HOMOEOPATHY

 ABSTRACT 

Piles is another term for haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They contain blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibers. Piles are certainly one of the commonest ailments that afflict mankind. This article provides an overview of the aetiology, diagnosis, and appropriate general & homoeopathic management of this disorder.

INTRODUCTION

Haemorrhoids are dilated veins occurring in relation to the anus, and originating in the sub epithelial plexus formed by radicals of the superior, middle, and inferior rectal veins. Haemorrhoids may be external or internal to the anal orifice. The external varieties are covered by skin, while the internal varieties lie beneath the mucous membrane. It is difficult to obtain any accurate idea of their incidence, but clinical experience suggests that very many people of both the sexes suffer from haemorrhoids, and that even more perhaps have piles in the symptom less form. It is frequent experiences to find haemorrhoids at routine rectal examination in patients who never had any complaints referable to them. The incidence of piles apparently increases with age, and it seems likely that at least 50% of people over the age of 50 years having some form of haemorrhoidal formation

 

AETIOLOGY

The veins around anus tend to stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell. Swollen veins (haemorrhoids) can develop from an increase in pressure in the lower rectum.

Factors that might cause increased pressure include:

· Straining during bowel movements  

· Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet.

· Chronic diarrhea or constipation

· Obesity

· Pregnancy

· Anal intercourse

· Diet is also a major factor; people who eat foods low in fiber are prone to constipation and hemorrhoid symptoms. Also, people who eat spicy foods may have exacerbation of their symptoms. Some people who simply do not drink enough fluid may suffer from constipation and haemorrhoid symptoms

· Haemorrhoids are more likely as get older because the tissues that support the veins in rectum and anus can weaken and stretch with aging.

· Other diseases like carcinoma of Rectum, cirrhosis of liver, portal hypertension

 

CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS

Haemorrhoids are usually not painful, but if a blood clot forms, they can be very painful.

Common symptoms include:

· Painless bright red blood from the rectum

· Anal itching

· Anal ache or pain, especially while sitting

· Pain during bowel movements

· One or more hard tender lumps near the anus

· Prolapse of the haemorrhoids is a later development.  It occurs initially at defecation, the piles appearing at the anal orifice at the height of the expulsive effort, and slipping back immediately afterwards. Later the piles tend to remain in a prolapsed condition after the motion has been passed and the patient finds it necessary to replace them digitally into the anal canal. At this stage they are also liable to come down on any exertion such as sneezing, coughing, lifting, walking or on passing flatus, so that the patient may find himself frequently inconvenienced by the piles prolapsing at the various time during the day. Finally a stage is reached when the piles are more or less permanently prolapsed, with anal mucosa exposed and in contact with the under clothing

 

 

 

Grades of internal haemorrhoids

Internal haemorrhoids are classified by the degree of tissue prolapse into the anal canal.

· Grade I (First degree) - haemorrhoids project into the anal canal with minimal bleeding or may be asymptomatic but do not prolapse.

· Grade II (Second degree) - haemorrhoids protrude beyond the anal verge with straining or defecating and reduce spontaneously when straining ceases.

· Grade III (Third degree) - haemorrhoids protrude spontaneously or with straining and require manual reduction.

· Grade IV (Fourth degree) - haemorrhoids chronically prolapse and, if reducible, fall out again. Others prolapse out of the anus and are irreducible (strangulated), creating a surgical emergency

Complications of Haemorrhoids are rare but include:

· Anemia. Chronic blood loss from Haemorrhoids may cause anemia, in which you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your cells. This may result in fatigue and weakness.

· Strangulated hemorrhoid. If blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid is cut off, the hemorrhoid may be "strangulated," which can cause extreme pain and lead to tissue death (gangrene).

 

Test and Examination

Tests and procedures to diagnose internal haemorrhoids may include:

· Examination of anal canal and rectum for abnormalities. During a digital rectal exam, physician inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into rectum. He or she feels for anything unusual, such as growths.

· Visual inspection of anal canal and rectum. Because internal Haemorrhoids are often too soft to be felt during a rectal examination, doctor may also examine the lower portion of colon and rectum with an anoscope, proctoscope or sigmoidoscope. These are scopes that allow seeing into anus and rectum.

· Physician may want to do a more extensive examination of entire colon using colonoscopy. This might be recommended if: signs and symptoms suggest might have another digestive system disease, if have risk factors for colorectal cancer, you’re older than age 50 and haven't had a recent colonoscopy.

 

Prevention of Haemorrohids

The best way to prevent Haemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft, so they pass easily. To prevent Haemorrhoids and reduce symptoms of Haemorrhoids, follow these tips:

1. Eat high-fiber foods. Eat more fruits, vegetables and wholegrains. Doing so softens the stool and increases its bulk, which will help you avoid the straining that can cause Haemorrhoids or worsen symptoms from existing Haemorrhoids. Add fiber to your diet slowly to avoid problems with gas.

2. Drink plenty of fluids. Drink six to eight glasses of water and other liquids (not alcohol) each day to help keep stools soft. Consider fiber supplements. Most people don't get enough of the recommended amount of fiber — 25 grams a day for women and 38 grams a day for men — in their diet. Studies have shown that over-the-counter fiber supplements, such as Metamucil and Citrucel, improve overall symptoms and bleeding from Haemorrhoids. These products help keep stools soft and regular. If you use fiber supplements, be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids every day. Otherwise, the supplements can cause constipation or make constipation worse.

3. Don't strain. Straining and holding your breath when trying to pass a stool creates greater pressure in the veins in the lower rectum.

4. Go as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait to pass a bowel movement and the urge goes away, your stool could become dry and be harder to pass.

5. Exercise. Stay active to help prevent constipation and to reduce pressure on veins, which can occur with long periods of standing or sitting. Exercise can also help you lose excess weight that may be contributing to your Haemorrhoids.

6. Avoid long periods of sitting. Sitting too long, particularly on the toilet, can increase the pressure on the veins in the anus.

 

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

· Soak regularly in a warm bath or sitz bath. Soak your anal area in plain warm water 10 to 15 minutes two to three times a day. A sitz bath fits over the toilet.

· Keep the anal area clean. Bathe (preferably) or shower daily to cleanse the skin around your anus gently with warm water. Soap isn't necessary and may aggravate the problem. Avoid alcohol based or perfumed wipes. Gently dry the area with a hair dryer after bathing.

· Don't use dry toilet paper. To help keep the anal area clean after a bowel movement, use moist towelettes or wet toilet paper that doesn't contain perfume or alcohol.

· Apply cold. Apply ice packs or cold compresses on your anus to relieve swelling.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

The medicines given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the treatment of this condition. Homoeopathy medicines are effective in treating. It is true that this method takes a longer time, but it is also the best one because not only the haemorroids are cured but also the patient.

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Aesculus hippocastanum	When this remedy is needed, Haemorrhoids are sore and aching, with a swollen feeling. Pain may last for hours after the bowels have moved. People who need this remedy often have the sensation of a lump, or a feeling that a lot of small sharp sticks are inside the rectum, poking them. Sharp and shooting pains may be felt in the rectum and back. A person who needs this remedy may also have low back problems.
Aloe	Haemorrhoids that are swollen and protrude “like a bunch of grapes” and are soothed by cold soaks or compresses may be helped with this remedy. Haemorrhoids may alternate with diarrhea, and the person may have a lot of flatulence.
Arnica montana	Sore, bruised-feeling Haemorrhoids may be relieved with this remedy, especially when straining or over-exertion (for instance, childbirth or heavy lifting) has brought on the Haemorrhoids.
Calcarea fluorica:	This remedy may be indicated for Haemorrhoids with bleeding and itching in the anal region, or internal Haemorrhoids causing soreness in the very low back and sacrum. The person may also have problems with flatulence and constipation.
Graphites:	Burning Haemorrhoids with soreness, cracks, and itching in the anal region suggest a need for this remedy. A person who needs Graphites is often overweight, has difficulty concentrating, and tends toward skin eruptions.
Hamamelis:	A raw, sore feeling in the anus, with bleeding Haemorrhoids, indicates a needfor this remedy. Pulsation may be felt in the rectum, and the lower back often aches.Symptoms may be worse from warmth.
Ignatia:	Haemorrhoids accompanied by spasms and stabbing pain in the rectum suggest a need for this remedy—especially if the person is sensitive and emotional. Stitching pains can be felt in the rectal area when coughing. Bleeding and pain are often worse when the stool is loose, and rectal prolapse sometimes follows bowel movements.
Nux vomica:	Itching, painful Haemorrhoids, a feeling of constriction in the rectum, and chronic constipation with ineffectual urging are indications for this remedy. People who need Nux vomica are usually impatient, tense, and irritable, and often have a tendency toward heavy use of stimulants, strong foods, and alcohol or drugs.
Pulsatilla:	When this remedy is indicated, Haemorrhoids are itchy and uncomfortable, with sticking pains. They are likely to protrude, with improvement after lying down. Warmth often aggravates the symptoms. This is a very helpful remedy for Haemorrhoids that appear during pregnancy or around the menstrual period.
Sulphur:	Itching, burning, oozing Haemorrhoids accompanied by a feeling of fullness and pressure in the abdomen suggest a need for this remedy. The anus is inflamed and red and may protrude significantly. The person may feel worse from warmth and bathing, and have flatulence with a strong, offensive odor.

CONCLUSION

Homoeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homoeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homoeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc. A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. It is true that this method takes a longer time, but it is also the best one because not only the haemorroids are cured but also the patient.

Deep-acting medicines are required to treat the constitution and bring about lasting relief.