‘The Power and Significance of Hair’

 

Dr. Birooreet B. Israel

 

 

Many people think of hair as just something to enhance one's physical appearance. However, hair is very significant on many levels. Not only is it a barometer for one's level of health, but it is crucial on both a physical and spiritual level. Today, I will provide information on the importance of hair, how to have healthy hair, and on male pattern baldness.

Hair is an outgrowth of the skin found only in mammals. It is an organ of the body (1). The hair follicle is the only organ of the body that undergoes a continuous cycle of growth (2). The phases are as follows:
1. anagen: the growing phase, lasting 2 to 10 years; the length of the hair is determined by how long this cycle lasts.
2. catagen: a transition between the growing and resting cycle
3. telogen: the rest cycle; no hair growth; hair is just waiting to fall out.

The human scalp is covered with approximately 100,000 hair follicles. On average, we loose 50 to 100 hairs per day. Nevertheless, we do not notice it, since we randomly loose these hairs. The average rate of hair growth is about 6 to 7 inches per year- on the top of your head. The rate is much slower for the hairs on other body parts (1).

Hair serves a number of different functions. It provides insulation both from the cold and from the heat. It can also provide protection for the skin against abrasions and cuts. Moreover, the hair on your head can buffer impacts to the skull and can protect against ultraviolet rays
(1). Additionally, hair helps to supply the pituitary gland with phosphorus (the mineral associated with intellect and brain functioning). Eyelashes and eyebrows are protective to the eyes. Furthermore, the hair in the ear canal and nasal passages can help to filter out particles and pathogens thus protecting our internal organs
(2). Also, hair helps to produce vitamin D for the body. The hair on your head, coupled with the oil in it, interacts with the sun to produce vitamin D. Your hair acts like an antenna. It has been shown that hair tied in a 'knot' on top of the head is capable of attracting the maximum amount of heat energy from the sun -like unto an antenna

(3). Recall, when one gains static electricity, his or her hair stands on end. Hair also receives 'energy' for the brain from the sun. So, it is conceivable that hair plays a vital role in ones' intellectual capacity

• The hair in the ear canal and nasal passages can help to filter out particles and pathogens thus protecting our internal organs.

• Also, hair helps to produce vitamin D for the body. Vitamin D protects from fatal diseases like tuberculosis. Significant research has revealed that the longer the hair, the more will be the production of vitamin D.

• To some extent, genetics plays a role in hair growth potential, but diet is key. Omega 3 fatty acids- found in flax seeds promotes hair growth and prevents baldness. Also, vitamin B-12 and folic acid are key in the cell renewal required to grow hair.

• Malnourishment of the hair follicles is primarily caused by the clogging of the fine capillaries with mucous forming foods- especially dairy, cooked grains, and meat.

Hair follicles are organs. Like other organs of the body, they require proper nourishment. Malnourishment of the hair follicles is primarily caused by the clogging of the fine capillaries with mucous forming foods- especially dairy, cooked grains, and meat. Consuming foods such as aloe vera (internally and externally), wheat grass (internally and externally, it can be applied to the scalp), MSM, and hemp seeds will stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss). These are all mineral-rich foods. Premature graying is also caused by a deficiency in B complex vitamins and trace minerals- especially copper deficiencies. Rejuvelac and wheatgrass have been show to restore color to gray hair- over time if ingested consistently.
Also, keep in mind that commercial shampoos and conditioners contain highly toxic chemicals that damage scalp/hair over time. So, strive to use organic plant-based shampoos that do not contain additives such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). One can even wash the hair with a dilute solution of pure lemon or pure orange juice and can condition the hair with aloe gel (5). Also, perms and synthetic dyes have been shown to cause cancer and other diseases.
Our hair is very important- more than just for aesthetic reasons. Thus, we should not damage nor abuse it. Also, we should make an effort to prevent hair loss and to promote hair growth. This can primarily be done through diet.