Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss, typically in small, round patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

Here are some key points about alopecia areata:

1. Symptoms: The primary symptom of alopecia areata is hair loss in small, coin-sized patches on the scalp or other hair-bearing areas of the body. In some cases, the hair loss may progress to larger areas or even total loss of scalp hair (alopecia totalis) or loss of all body hair (alopecia universalis). The affected areas are usually smooth and may be accompanied by mild itching or tingling.

2. Causes: The exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. It is considered an autoimmune disease because the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

3. Risk Factors: Alopecia areata can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the risk, including a family history of the condition, other autoimmune diseases (such as thyroid disorders or vitiligo), and a history of allergies or atopic dermatitis.

4. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of alopecia areata is typically based on the appearance of the hair loss and may be confirmed through a physical examination and sometimes a scalp biopsy to rule out other causes of hair loss.

5. Treatment: There is no cure for alopecia areata, but treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and promote hair regrowth. These may include corticosteroid injections into the scalp, topical corticosteroids, minoxidil (Rogaine), anthralin cream or ointment, immunotherapy medications such as corticosteroid creams, and oral medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. Some individuals may also benefit from phototherapy or other experimental treatments.

6. Prognosis: The course of alopecia areata varies from person to person. In some cases, hair may regrow spontaneously without treatment, while in others, the condition may persist or recur despite treatment. Complete hair regrowth is possible, but it cannot be guaranteed.

Living with alopecia areata can be challenging, as it can impact a person’s self-esteem and body image. Support groups, counseling, and connecting with others who have the condition can be helpful for coping with the emotional aspects of hair loss.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines For Alopecia Areata

The five top-ranking homeopathic medicines that treat Alopecia Areata effectively are Fluoric Acid, Phosphorus, Lycopodium, Calcarea carb and Vinca Minor. 

1. Fluoric Acid – Top-Grade Homeopathic Medicine

Fluoric Acid is one of the best homeopathic remedies for alopecia areata. It works equally well for hair fall in patches occurring in any part of the scalp. It helps wonderfully in the regrowth of hair in bald patches. Those needing it may have an itchy scalp too. The scalp can be sensitive to touch.

When and How to use fluoric Acid?

This medicine can be used as the first line of treatment in cases of alopecia areata. With its use, there is gradual regrowth of hair. Initially, Fluoric Acid 30C can be used two to three times a day. Once the hair starts to regrow, the dose should be reduced.

2. Phosphorus – For Alopecia Areata With Hair Loss From Front Or Sides Of Scalp

Though Phosphorus can be used for hair loss in any portion of the scalp, it is most suitable when hair loss from the front or the sides is prominent. Those needing it can have a tendency of excessive sweating on the scalp. Heat may also be felt in the scalp, dandruff may also be present.

When and How to use Phosphorus?

Use of Phosphorus is mainly suggested when hair loss occurs especially from the front or side portion of the scalp. Though it can be taken in any potency from low to high but the most frequently recommended is 30C potency. Phosphorus 30C can be taken twice a day for good results.

3. Lycopodium – For Alopecia Areata When Hair Loss Is Marked On Top Of Scalp (Vertex)

Lycopodium is a natural remedy sourced from plant club moss. It works well in recovering from bald patches that occur mainly on the top of the scalp. The person suffers burning sensation and itching on the scalp. Apart from this, Lycopodium is a leading medicine to treat premature greying of hair.

When and How to use Lycopodium?

When hair loss is marked on the top of the scalp, this medicine can be considered. Among its various potencies ranging from low to high, it is best to start with 30C potency twice a day. Its higher potencies can be considered afterward but only after consulting a homeopathic physician.

4. Calcarea Carb – For Hair Loss With Sweaty Scalp

This medicine can be used in cases where patchy hair loss is accompanied by increased sweating on the scalp. A cold sensation on the scalp can also be felt. Scalp can be itchy as well.

When and How to use Calcarea Carb?

It is recommended for persons who have hair loss in spots along with a tendency of increased sweating. It is used in different potencies ranging from low to high depending on the complaint but the most common in use is 30C potency. Lycopodium 30C can be taken once in the morning and once in the evening for best results.

5. Vinca Minor – For Tendency To Alopecia Areata When Regrown Hair Are White

This medicine is prepared from the plant ‘lesser periwinkle’. It is useful in treating alopecia areata cases where there is a tendency for hair to fall in spots which then get replaced by white hair. Along with this, itching and violent scratching over the scalp may also be present.

When and How to use Vinca Minor?

This medicine is specifically used in cases in which there is a tendency for hair loss in spots and when the hair which regrow are white-colored. This medicine can be taken in 30C potency twice a day. It works two ways — in treating tendency to have hair loss in spots, and preventing whitening of hair that grow back.