Hair loss can be a traumatic experience for both men and women, and while it is not necessarily par for the course, it does happen to many people. Some factors contributing to hair loss are genetics, hormonal changes, stress, inadequate nutrition and poor blood circulation in the scalp. A holistic approach is advised by looking at diet and lifestyle as well as aromatherapy essential oils that can help encourage hair growth by stimulating the scalp.

1. Grate a large onion. Combine it with equal parts of castor oil and rubbing alcohol. Rub the mixture into your scalp. Put on a shower cap and wrap a scarf around your head. Wait three hours. Rinse the head with water mixed with lemon juice or vinegar to make the hair shiny and to eliminate the onion smell. Repeat weekly. In four weeks hair should be strong and healthy, and stop falling out.

2. Rosemary and sage are two herbs that have shown benefit traditionally when used externally. Boil together in water rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock. Then strain the loose herbs from the liquid and use the liquid to wash the hair daily.

3. Scalp massage with essential oils can stimulate hair growth by increasing blood circulation for the hair follicles. Rosemary essential oil has a history of being used to improve scalp circulation and three drops can be mixed with a tablespoon of distilled witch hazel and applied to the scalp as a massage treatment.

4. Vitamin E oil and tonka bean essential oil can be applied to the scalp and roots of the hair to help stop hair loss. To make and use this natural treatment, combine 3 tbsp. vitamin E oil with ? tsp. Tonka bean essential oil in a bottle and shake to combine. Pour the mixture over the hair and scalp and gently massage it in for 2 to 3 minutes. Leave the mixture on the head for 20 minutes before rinsing with water and washing with your regular shampoo and conditioner. Unused portions of the mixture can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to one month. Discontinue use if irritation develops.

5. Maintaining a healthy diet is advised for good hair health. Eat green vegetables, dairy products, fruits and iron rich foods to strengthen hair. Drinking coconut water is another recommendation to prevent hair loss. Amla is a rich natural source of vitamin C. Eating Amla or drinking its juice is another dietary suggestion.

6. Aloe Vera has been used by Native Americans, Indians and many in the Caribbean to promote healthy hair and prevent hair loss. Aloe's can help the scalp by healing it and balancing the pH level of the scalp while cleansing the pores. A common preparation of Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefit.

7. Exercise is important to improve nutrient absorption and can aid in combating stress. Yoga is advised to relieve stress and relax muscles to encourage good blood circulation. To increase blood flow in the scalp, end shampooing with a cold water rinse and massage. Reducing damage to hair during styling is an excellent way to prevent loss of hair. Stop or minimise chemical treatments, heat styling, using harsh products, excessive brushing and tight hairstyles.