Natural trichotillomania treatment

Tasneem Abrahams
Feb 25th, 2017

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Naturopathy or naturopathic medicine is a form of alternative medicine employing a wide array of pseudoscientific practices branded as "natural" and as promoting "self-healing," including homeopathy, herbalism, and acupuncture, as well as diet and lifestyle counseling. Natural treatments for trichotillomania can be a health care practice that does not follow generally accepted medical methods and may not have a scientific explanation for its effectiveness. Examples of alternative medicines are homeopathy and herbal medicine and may involve biofeedback or acupuncture.

How can natural medicine help?

Though the exact causes of trichotillomania are still unknown, it is believed that depression and anxiety triggers many instances of it. For many, stress is a nother major trigger for hair pulling. Pulling then causes a sense of embarrassment that leads to further stress, anxiety, and outbreaks of trichotillomania. This sets in motion a negative cycle of behavior and consequence which is hard to break. Naturopaths aim to prevent illness through stress reduction and changes to diet and lifestyle, often rejecting the methods of evidence-based medicine.

Naturopathic practice is based on a belief in the body's ability to heal itself through a special vital energy or force guiding bodily processes internally. Diagnosis and treatment concern primarily alternative therapies and "natural" methods that naturopaths claim promote the body's natural ability to heal. Naturopaths focus on a holistic approach, often avoiding the use of surgery and drugs. some examples of how natural remedies can assist in alleviating the symptoms of trich:

Castor oil: naturally adds moisture to your skin and helps treat itchy skin. Many people describe their compulsions as being similar to the sensation of itching. By eliminating itchy skin or scalp, it may be possible to help alleviate trichotillomania symptoms. Other benefits include anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. The same is true of bacteria that may have infected your scalp. Treating it naturally can help keep your hands off your hair and your follicles firmly in place.

Rosemary oil: is thought to promote hair regrowth. For a daily massage to stimulate new growth, add 3-4 drops of rosemary oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil such as jojoba oil. Rub into the scalp for a few minutes and leave for at least 30 minutes. You can also combine it with peppermint essential oil(which can also promote hair growth).

Lavender oil: combines many of the same benefits while promoting stronger hair growth. All three of these oils combine together to create a powerful mixture that promotes stronger hair and skin health.

Lemon: Lemon’s refreshing scent has purifying and uplifting properties. It helps to combat negative emotions, stress, depression and boost your immunity. 

Jasmine: Jasmine has a relaxing flowery scent that is known for its antispasmodic and uplifting properties.

Holistic treatment is key

There is no all or nothing principle when it comes to treating any aspect of your health and wellness. The stringent naturopath will use only natural medicines and the staunch medical practictioners will scoff at the mere mention of natural therapies. But in the end no two people are the same and we are all complex creatures. The key is to experiement with a variety or treatment modalities mixing and matching according to your unique needs and preferences. You might be surprised at how effective it is in treating your symptoms naturally or it may have no effect on you at all. You may also want to try other relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation, and seek the guidance of a CBT therapist or counsellor to help you through the process.

Tasneem Abrahams

   

Tasneem is an Occupational Therapist, and a graduate of the TLC foundation for BFRBs professional training institute. Her experience in mental health includes working at Lentegeur Psychiatric hospital forensic unit (South Africa), Kingston Community Adult Learning Disability team (UK), Clinical Specialist for the Oasis Project Spelthorne Community Mental Health team (UK). Tasneem is a member of both the editorial team and the clinical staff on TrichStop, providing online therapy for people who suffer from Trichotillomania and other BFRBs.

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