Maximize Your Hair Growth Cycle Authored by Mindy Lindner

The hair on our scalp can be divided into two parts, the root and shaft. The root part of hair is in the skin (epidermis) of the scalp. The hair root is surrounded by a pouch like structure called follicle. The base of hair root is in the shape of a bulb. This bulb is indented by capillaries and nerve fibers. The cells in the center of bulb divide. The newly divided hair cells push the previous cells up. The cells which move upwards die slowly forming hard hair shaft.

The hair shaft has three layers the cuticle, medulla and cortex-
*Cuticle is the outer layers and protects the inner layers. It is transparent. A healthy cuticle gives a shiny appearance for hair and unhealthy cuticle gives a lifeless look.
*Medulla is the innermost layer composed of large cells.
*Cortex is the layer between cuticle and medulla. This contains pigment and keratin. Cortex determines the bulk and strength of hair. The hair follicle contains oil secreting glands which make the hair shiny . Stress and illness diminish secretion of oil and pigments causing graying of hair.

Normal cycle of hair growth
About 10 % of the hair on the scalp is in a resting phase at any given time. The resting hair falls out after 2 to 3 months and new hair starts growing in its place. The growing phase continues for 2.25 to 6 yrs. During this phase each hair grows approximately 1/2 inch per month 6 inches a year... and no more than that sorry. At any given time about 90% of the hair on scalp will be in growing phase.

Drink Recommended Daily Amount Of Water
Coffee, tea, sugar drinks or beer does not count in your daily water count. Water means exactly that - water. Carbonated and caffeinated drinks may actually speed up dehydration which means that the body is not functioning at optimal levels. Not only can dehydration make you feel drained and exhausted, it can be a hidden factor in hair growth stoppage, dry strands or tresses that break off. Adjust your daily levels according to the seasons of the year (hot weather may require more daily water consumption) and the amount of stress in your life.

Drink Green Tea, experts disagree with the merits of green tea and whether or not it does conclusively help hair health and encourage growth.
Experts who believe in the hair health benefits of green tea point to the fact that certain compounds found in green tea cause the relaxation of blood vessels, helping overall cardiovascular activity through increased circulation. Of course increased circulation will naturally help nourish hair roots and scalp tissues.
Exercise experts have discovered that walking at a quick pace for just 15 minutes will help to raise your normal heart rate which improves circulation to your entire body, including to your scalp and hair follicles. It also helps shake out the cobwebs and aids in a feeling of alertness and energy.

Get Enough Sleep many people are sleep deprived. For the body to function at optimal capability, which includes having the necessary energy to nourish and grow hair, humans need enough sleeep.

When hunger hits between meals, eat to nourish your hair roots. Reach for one handful of unsalted Almonds they are loaded with magnesium which is an essential mineral for growing healthy strands.

Indulge In Daily Aromatherapy
Many studies have been done on the effects of aromatherapy when used in daily or regular scalp massages for both healthy hair and scalp as well as overall health.
Studies have found that there is a direct link between the use of aromatherapy and hair growth.