I used the same method with wall charger too. Alternatives...? The same as the others suggested to you.

If your device is in a bootloop then it will not have booted up to the point where charging will happen via the device.
If the bootloop is due to a fault in software you can reflash the device resetting everything to default.
If you know it's just a discharged battery stopping the boot process then it's possible the battery you received is damaged anyway, it is very unusual for a Lithium battery to be stored or shipped flat.
You could try to recharge it with a desktop charger or other device like a Nokia 5800 for example however it may not recover to full potential. Monitor battery for any bulging, hotspots or leaks and do not use if it shows any signs of the above.