Alopecia Areata
- Admin
- Feb 10, 2023
- 4 min read
A common autoimmune disorder that causes hair to fall out in minor to large patches. It affects the scalp but may appear on any part of the body with hair. It shows up as round or oval-shaped spots on the scalp. This condition is due to an attack on the hair follicle by the body's immune system. The amount of hair loss will vary from person to person with mild to severe causes. This condition starts for some in childhood. Extreme cases lead to hair loss over the entire body known as alopecia universalis.
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the hair follicle stopping the hair growth cycle in the telogen phase or catagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Scientists have not been able to figure out what is triggering the body to attack itself.
Common causes: Family history of the condition- Type 1 diabetes celiac disease- rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms: Hair begins to burn or itch intensifies in the same spots on the scalp. One or more well-defined thin areas, Thinning burning and itching in the scalp. This can also affect toenails and fingernails causing rough, white lines, thinning, and splitting nail bed.
There is no cure for this condition but with the right practices and vitamins and minerals, you can rest the hair growth cycle.
Here are some of the known factors and theories associated with the development of alopecia areata:
Autoimmune Response: The leading theory is that alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder. In this condition, the body's immune system mistakenly targets and attacks hair follicles as if they were foreign invaders. This immune response disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
Genetics: There is evidence to suggest that genetics plays a role in the development of alopecia areata. If you have a family member with the condition, you may be at a higher risk of developing it.
Environmental Factors: Some environmental factors, such as viral infections or stressful life events, have been linked to the onset or exacerbation of alopecia areata in some individuals. However, the exact relationship is not well-understood.
Immunological Factors: Changes in the immune system, particularly the production of certain cytokines (proteins involved in cell signaling), may contribute to the development of the condition.
Other Autoimmune Conditions: Individuals with alopecia areata may have a higher risk of developing other autoimmune disorders, such as thyroid diseases, vitiligo, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Rooibos: Rooibos is a South African herbal tea that is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids. Antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which may indirectly contribute to overall health. While it's not a direct remedy for hair loss, a healthy body can support hair growth.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation in the body, which could have a positive impact on overall health. However, there is limited evidence to suggest that it directly promotes hair growth.
Apple Fruit Pieces: Apples are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and fiber. A balanced diet with a variety of fruits like apples can support overall health, which in turn can benefit hair health. Vitamin C, for example, plays a role in collagen production, which is essential for hair strength.
Calendula (Marigold) Petal: Calendula is often used topically in skincare products due to its potential anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. While it's more commonly associated with skin health, maintaining a healthy scalp can indirectly support hair growth.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Many autoimmune disorders involve chronic inflammation in the body. Rooibos, Cinnamon, and Calendula all contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming these herbs as part of a balanced diet may help reduce inflammation and alleviate some symptoms associated with autoimmune disorders.
Antioxidant Effects: Antioxidants found in these herbs, such as flavonoids in Rooibos and cinnamon, can help neutralize harmful free radicals and oxidative stress. This oxidative stress is often linked to autoimmune conditions, and antioxidants can help mitigate its effects.
Immune System Modulation: Calendula, in particular, has been studied for its potential immunomodulatory effects. It may help regulate the immune system's response, which is often overactive in autoimmune disorders.
Stress Reduction: Autoimmune disorders can be exacerbated by stress. Herbal teas like Rooibos are known for their calming effects and may help reduce stress levels, indirectly benefiting individuals with autoimmune conditions.
Digestive Support: Some autoimmune disorders, like celiac disease, can impact the digestive system. Cinnamon has been suggested to have potential digestive benefits, which could be helpful for individuals with autoimmune disorders affecting the gut.
Taken before childbirth made childbirth shorter and easier. Manages brain function keeping skin clear while straightening the immune system.
Things to do:
Review diet
Eat more foods containing the amino acids the body needs and deserves
to keep the scalp clean
and lower stress levels sign up for my free meditation course
set a hair routine and stick to it. Reduce mechanical damage and have less breakage to retain length with my 7-day challenge
If you can stop your body from attacking itself you can reset the hair growth cycle. Watch these videos to learn more about cloves and Rosemary and what they do for the body. - Cyn
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