Every hair growth cycle involves some amount of hair loss daily. 90% of our hair is in a growth stage with 10% in resting phase, which would fall out naturally every 2 or 3 months. Thinning of hair is usually noticed when the loss is in excess of the normal hair loss pattern. These include: Why does hair loss take place?

Alopecia areata: Affecting both men and women, the loss is rapid. When there is a mal-function of the immune system the intrinsic white cells attack the hair follicles and result in this ailment. When all the scalp hair is lost it is called Alopecia Totalis. Infrequently a condition called alopecia universalis occurs where hair is lost from the entire body.

Genetic reasons: This causes 25% men to be affected by male pattern baldness by age 30. Though the reason is genetic another contributing factor is testosterone the male hormone. Unhealthy hair is produced or hair production is stopped by Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) generated by the conversion of testosterone. Men without testosterone would never have male pattern baldness.

Skin diseases: yet another cause for hair loss which affect the scalp. Dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, scalp fungus such as ringworm and tinea captis are some of the ailments caused by skin diseases.

Sudden illness or fever: hair can come off in large tufts after an illness or fever. This is a temporary condition.

Childbirth, menopause, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and aging could also be the other reasons for hair loss. There are other reasons for hair loss over and above these main ones.

Not only can you stop hair loss but your can promote re-growth too, when you follow a successful hair loss treatment program. Here are some natural ways you could treat hair loss:

1. Have plenty of vitamins A, B, C and E. These promote new hair growth. What are the roles of these vitamins? They provide sebum, promote blood circulation to the scalp by enhancement of oxygen absorption and collagen.

2. Caring for your scalp: If you regularly massage your scalp with herbal oils like olive oil, jojoba oil, amla oil you would be greatly benefited. Essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedar wood have also been known to be effective in conditions of alopecia areata.

3. Concern for scalp abuse: Blow drying and using chemical shampoos daily are to be avoided. Hair and scalp can get severely damaged when you use chemical treatments like coloring as well as straightening. Even a daily hair wash with hot water can damage hair as well as the scalp with the drying up of natural oils and hair breaking easily.

4. Use of herbal care: There are some very effective options here. Use powders of amla, shikakai, henna and ritha as shampoo and conditioner. The richest source of natural vitamin C is amla powder known for its effect in preventing graying and hair loss. It cleanses without depriving hair of its natural oil. You could then use henna which acts like a natural conditioner.

5. Lead a stress free life: To do this, do exercises and meditation. Remember stress initiates hair loss. Give up Smoking: Smoking causes constriction of the blood vessel which supply blood to the scalp. To avoid damage to the scalp avoid UV rays from sun exposure.