Overview
While there is no magic bullet for growing several inches of hair within a few days or weeks, there are a number of hair-growth products that can be used to help accelerate the speed of hair growth. These include natural hair products that will not have the negative side effects that many commercial products do.
Aloe Vera
For centuries, aloe vera has been used in a number of cultures as a natural hair product to promote growth, prevent hair loss and sustain the health of the hair. Applying aloe vera gel to the scalp increases blood supply to the hair follicle, helping to revitalize and increase hair growth. It is available at most health stores.
Essential Oils
A number of essential oils can be used to stimulate the hair follicles and promote blood circulation in the scalp to encourage hair growth. These include ylang ylang, lavender, lemon, nettle, eucalyptus and jojoba essential oils. Five or more drops of the essential oil should be mixed into 1 ounce of jojoba or almond oil, massaged into the hair and scalp and then rinsed out after 1 hour.
Proteins
The structure of the hair strand is high in amino acids, a natural form of protein. Natural conditioners such as egg yolk and yogurt are easily available, high-protein hair-growth products that are rich in amino acids. Applied directly to the hair shaft and scalp, they replenish the proteins in the hair cortex, strengthen the hair shaft and help to minimize hair breakage and split ends. A natural, protein-rich hair conditioner can be made by combining one egg yolk, 1/4 cup yogurt, and 1 tsp. lemon juice. This can be massaged into wet hair, left on for 30 minutes and then rinsed out for a penetrating, hair-growing treatment.
Vitamins
The B vitamins are not only essential for healthy hair, but they also improve blood circulation in the scalp and stimulate hair growth. Vitamin C helps speed up hair growth by stimulating the hair follicle. These vitamins may be obtained from a diet rich in fruit and raw vegetables. Vitamins B and C can also be obtained through vitamin supplements, which are available from health food stores and your local pharmacy.
Herbs
A number of herbs, including rosemary, cloves, nettle, nutmeg, quince, artichokes and jaborandi are recommended to promote hair growth. An infusion of these herbs can be used as a rinse to nourish the hair and promote hair growth. To prepare an herbal infusion, steep 2 tbsp. of the dried herb in 2 cups of boiling water. Shampoo your hair as usual, and then use the infusion as a rinse.