Alopecia, a condition characterized by partial or complete hair loss, can have a significant impact on your self-esteem and quality of life. While modern medicine offers various treatments, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long used herbal formulas to address alopecia and promote hair regrowth. In TCM, alopecia is often attributed to imbalances in the body’s Qi (vital energy) and blood circulation. This disruption can manifest as deficiencies, excesses, or stagnation, leading to hair follicle dysfunction and hair loss. TCM practitioners aim to identify the root cause of the imbalance and develop individualized treatment plans to restore harmony and promote hair regrowth.
TCM incorporates the use of these Chinese herbal formulas to stimulate hair follicles, nourish the scalp, and restore balance and vitality to the body:
- Dong Quai: Dong quai, also known as Angelica sinensis, is a herb widely used in TCM to nourish and invigorate blood. It is believed to stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp. Dong quai contains vitamins and minerals that support hair follicles and promote the growth of strong and healthy hair. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce scalp irritation, another common factor in hair loss.
- White Peony: White peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is another herb frequently utilized in TCM to address alopecia. It possesses antioxidant properties and has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing hair loss due to stress or hormonal imbalances. White peony is also believed to regulate the immune system, which may help in cases where alopecia is an autoimmune response.
- Szechuan Lovage: Szechuan lovage (Ligusticum chuanxiong) is known for its ability to promote blood circulation and relieve stagnation. In TCM, it is often used to improve the overall health of hair and scalp. By enhancing blood flow to the hair follicles, Szechuan lovage helps deliver vital nutrients and oxygen, stimulating hair growth and preventing further loss. Its anti-inflammatory properties also assist in soothing the scalp and reducing any associated inflammation.
- Rehmannia: Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa) is an herb commonly used in TCM for hair loss treatment. It nourishes the blood and replenishes the kidneys, which are considered vital for healthy hair growth in TCM. Rehmannia is also known for its ability to balance hormones and address imbalances that can contribute to alopecia, particularly in cases of pattern hair loss or androgenic alopecia.
- Chinese Licorice: Chinese licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is a versatile herb widely used in TCM formulations. Its inclusion in herbal formulas for alopecia is mainly due to its harmonizing properties. Chinese licorice helps balance the effects of other herbs in the formula and strengthens their therapeutic actions. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can support scalp health and hair growth.
TCM-based Chinese herbal formulas offer a holistic and natural approach to treat alopecia by addressing the underlying imbalances within the body, promoting blood circulation, and supporting scalp health, and have shown promising results in the management of alopecia.
It is important to note that TCM-based herbal formulas are typically prescribed by qualified TCM practitioners who consider the individual’s specific condition, constitution, and underlying imbalances to determine the most suitable herbal formula for your specific needs and to ensure safe and effective treatment for alopecia.
Sources:
- Zgonc Skulj (2019). Herbal preparations for the treatment of hair loss: An update review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 1-9
- Yanbo Liang, et al. (2022). The clinical effect of traditional Chinese medicine combined with Western medicine in the treatment of androgenic alopecia. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, 25(10), 745-748.