Many people have tried conventional hair restoration methods such as laser treatments, pharmaceutical drugs or surgery. Often these methods have limited success. Chinese herbal medicine is a natural alternative for hair restoration, gray hair reversal and/or overcoming the health disorders that often result in thinning hair.
It is recommended that individuals visit a doctor of Oriental medicine rather than self-treating with herbs, since he or she will mix an herbal tonic based on specific needs and address the causes of hair loss first. Vitamin deficiencies, poor nutrition, chemotherapy or hormonal problems can all cause or worsen cases of hair loss. Chinese herbal remedies can contribute to restoring the body’s balance.
Chinese herbs that can promote hair growth
- Fo-Ti or He-Shou-Wu (Polygonum Multiflorum) has been used by Chinese practitioners for hundreds of years for thinning hair and baldness. Modern research has shown that fo-ti contains an alkaloid that has a rejuvenating effect on the nerves, brain cells and endocrine glands. In China, processed fo-ti has been used for centuries as an anti-aging tonic. In addition, the herb is said to reverse graying of the hair.
- Dong Quai (Angelica) is also known as Dan gui. This herb is used to stop hair loss and is said to stimulate re-growth. Dong Quai contains phytoestrogens which inhibit the formation of DHT, a major cause of hair loss.
- Nu Zhen Zi (Ligustrum Lucidum) is considered a Yin kidney and liver tonic. In China, it is used to improve circulation to the scalp, help with hair restoration and prevent hair loss.
- Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Chinensis) is a widely used herbal tonic used, among other things, as a cure for baldness. It has been used as a hair restorative for centuries, said to build the quality of the skin on the scalp.
Chinese herbs used in tonics and natural hair products
- Morus Alba bark extract, otherwise known as white mulberry: In traditional Chinese medicine, the mulberry fruit is used to treat prematurely graying hair and as a hair tonic.
- Stinging nettle: Traditionally used to treat hereditary hair loss.
- Eclipta Alba: This plant is widely distributed throughout Asia. In ayurvedic medicine, the leaf extract is considered a powerful liver tonic and is said to be especially good for the hair. A black dye obtained from the plant is used for dyeing hair and tattooing.
- Salvia Miltiorrhiza or red sage: Used in hair tonics as it is said to improve blood circulation.