The more I know about Chinese medicine, the more I will be amazed at the breadth and depth of traditional culture. Recently, I have been using my spare time to learn Chinese medicine knowledge, on the one hand to make myself healthier, and on the other hand, I hope to do my best to spread this great Chinese medicine culture to more people, so that they can benefit from it and avoid more deception. Next, we will explore the root causes of hair loss and how to improve and prevent it from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hair health is closely linked to the balance of internal systems, particularly the state of the Kidneys, Liver, and Blood. Hair loss is not seen as an isolated condition but as a reflection of deeper imbalances in the body. By addressing the root causes, TCM offers holistic strategies to improve hair health and prevent further loss.

Root Causes of Hair Loss in TCM

1. Kidney Essence (Jing) Deficiency
   • The Kidneys are considered the foundation of vitality in TCM, storing Jing, which governs hair growth and strength.
   • Signs: Thinning hair, premature graying, fatigue, lower back pain, and weak knees.
   • Cause: Aging, excessive stress, overwork, or inherited deficiencies.
2. Liver Blood Deficiency
   • The Liver is responsible for nourishing the blood, which supports hair follicles. Insufficient Liver Blood leads to weak and undernourished hair.
   • Signs: Dull, brittle hair, hair thinning, pale complexion, dizziness, and menstrual irregularities in women.
   • Cause: Poor diet, chronic illness, or emotional stress.
3. Damp-Heat Accumulation
   • Excess dampness and heat in the body can block the scalp’s channels, affecting hair growth.
   • Signs: Oily scalp, dandruff, inflammation, and sudden hair shedding.
   • Cause: Consuming too many greasy or spicy foods, excessive alcohol, or an underlying imbalance in the digestive system (Spleen).
4. Qi and Blood Stagnation
   • Poor circulation of Qi (energy) and Blood can lead to reduced nourishment to the scalp, causing hair to fall out.
   • Signs: Patches of hair loss (alopecia areata), stress-induced hair shedding, and a tight scalp feeling.
   • Cause: Emotional stress, trauma, or poor lifestyle habits.

How to Improve Hair Loss in TCM

1. Nourish the Kidneys and Essence (Jing)

• Herbal Remedies:
  • He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti): Strengthens Kidney essence and promotes hair growth.
  • Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries): Nourishes Liver and Kidney.
• Dietary Support:
  • Include black sesame seeds, walnuts, and black beans to support Kidney health.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Avoid overwork, prioritize rest, and engage in moderate exercise like tai chi.

2. Boost Liver Blood

• Herbal Remedies:
  • Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): A powerful herb to build blood and improve circulation.
  • Bai Shao (White Peony Root): Balances and nourishes the Liver Blood.
• Dietary Support:
  • Eat foods rich in iron and nutrients, such as spinach, eggs, red dates, and lean meats.
• Stress Management:
  • Practice meditation, acupuncture, or qigong to calm the Liver and reduce stress.

3. Clear Damp-Heat

• Herbal Remedies:
  • Huang Qin (Scutellaria): Clears heat and detoxifies.
  • Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed): Drains dampness and improves digestion.
• Dietary Support:
  • Avoid greasy, fried, or overly spicy foods. Focus on lighter meals, including barley, lotus root, and bitter melon.

4. Promote Qi and Blood Flow

• Herbal Remedies:
  • Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Root): Activates blood circulation and prevents stagnation.
  • Dan Shen (Salvia Root): Improves scalp microcirculation.
• Acupressure & Scalp Massage:
  • Regularly massage acupuncture points like Baihui (GV20) on the top of the head and Taiyang (EX-HN5) at the temples to stimulate blood flow to the scalp.
• Exercise:
  • Gentle cardiovascular activities like walking or yoga enhance Qi and Blood movement.

Additional TCM Tips for Hair Health

1. Scalp Care:
   • Use TCM-inspired hair oils with ginger or ginseng to stimulate the scalp and nourish hair roots.
2. Improve Digestive Health (Spleen):
   • A healthy Spleen ensures efficient nutrient absorption, which directly impacts hair health. Eat warm, cooked foods and avoid raw or cold meals.
3. Regular Acupuncture:
   • Stimulates key meridians associated with hair growth, such as the Kidney and Liver meridians.
4. Seasonal Adjustments:
   • During autumn and winter, focus on warming foods and Kidney-nourishing practices. In spring and summer, incorporate Liver-cleansing foods and stress reduction.

From a TCM perspective, hair loss is a signal of internal imbalances. By addressing deficiencies in Kidney essence, Liver Blood, and Qi circulation, or resolving damp-heat accumulation, you can restore healthy hair growth. This holistic approach, which integrates dietary adjustments, herbal medicine, and lifestyle changes, not only targets hair loss but also promotes overall vitality and balance.