If your hair is thinning for no apparent reason, Chinese herbs can help! For centuries, Chinese herbs have been used to grow hair, thicken hair, and slow premature greying. Common situations that contribute to hair loss and thinning include pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, chronic illness, prolonged high stress, a history of severe blood loss, current or history of an eating disorder, and simply being female. While men can also experience hair thinning (especially stress-related) women are particularly prone to it due to our physiology being deeply connected with Yin, Jing, and Blood. Menstruation, childbirth, breastfeeding, and hormonal fluctuations often deplete these essential substances over time, making hair more susceptible to thinning and loss. When combined with stress, it’s no wonder our bodies struggle to sustain vibrant, healthy hair.
The Chinese Medicine Perspective on Hair Health
In Chinese medicine, hair is considered the "flowering" of the body, meaning its quality reflects internal health. The key substances that support hair growth are Yin, Blood, and Jing—what I like to call "the essential goo" of the body. When these are abundant, hair flourishes. When they are depleted, hair becomes thin, brittle, and slow to grow.
The good news? There are powerful Chinese herbs that nourish Yin, Blood, and Jing, helping to restore healthy hair growth without unwanted hair growth in other areas. These herbs are also deeply beneficial for the skin, nails, and overall vitality, providing profound health benefits when taken consistently over time.
Introducing the 5 Superstar Chinese Herbs for Hair Growth
These five herbs work together to create an ideal environment for hair regrowth and longevity. They can be taken alone or combined into a personalized herbal formula for a more targeted approach.
1. He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori) - Fo-Ti
Chinese Medicine Benefits:
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Nourishes Yin, Blood, and Jing to promote hair growth and restore its natural color.
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Supports the Kidneys and Liver, which are key organs in hair health.
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Strengthens the lower back, knees, and joints—commonly weakened in aging and postpartum recovery.
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Supports fertility and reproductive health.
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Known as a longevity tonic, improving energy and resilience against aging.
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Helps with insomnia and dream-disturbed sleep caused by Blood and Yin deficiency.
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Can alleviate mild dizziness and tinnitus linked to Kidney deficiency.
Western Medicine Benefits:
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Acts as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress.
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Supports cognitive function and brain health.
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Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and inflammation.
2. Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) - Goji Berries
Chinese Medicine Benefits:
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Tonifies Yin, Blood, and Jing, essential for hair growth and deep hydration.
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Supports the Liver and Kidneys, helping with eye health and night vision.
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Strengthens immunity and overall resilience.
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Moistens the Lungs, benefiting dry coughs and sore throats.
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Helps combat fatigue and low energy levels.
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Supports healthy menstrual cycles by nourishing Blood.
Western Medicine Benefits:
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High in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and beta-carotene, which protect against aging.
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Supports eye health, reducing the risk of macular degeneration.
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Aids in immune function and overall wellness.
3. Nu Zhen Zi (Fructus Ligustri Lucidi) - Privet Fruit
Chinese Medicine Benefits:
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Strongly nourishes Kidney Yin, helping slow down premature graying.
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Benefits eye health, improving night vision and reducing dryness.
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Strengthens the bones and tendons, useful for aging and osteoporosis prevention.
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Helps with symptoms of menopause, such as night sweats, hot flashes, and dryness.
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Reduces inflammation and strengthens the immune system.
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Supports cognitive function, reducing forgetfulness and brain fog.
Western Medicine Benefits:
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Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that combat aging.
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Supports immune system balance and reduces inflammation.
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Helps with liver detoxification and function.
4. Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Preparata) - Prepared Rehmannia
Chinese Medicine Benefits:
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Strongly tonifies Blood and Yin, making it one of the most potent Blood-nourishing herbs.
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“Fills the Marrow,” supporting brain health, memory, and concentration.
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Helps with hair growth and thickness by deeply nourishing the body.
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Beneficial for anemia, dizziness, and fatigue due to Blood deficiency.
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Supports reproductive health and fertility.
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Helps with dryness and heat symptoms in menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
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Strengthens the Liver and Kidney Yin, supporting vitality and slowing aging.
Western Medicine Benefits:
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Contains anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating compounds.
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Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
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Supports adrenal health and recovery from stress and fatigue.
5. Sang Shen (Fructus Mori) - Mulberry Fruit
Chinese Medicine Benefits:
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Strongly nourishes Blood and Yin, promoting hair and skin hydration.
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Generates body fluids, helping with dryness, thirst, and dehydration.
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Improves complexion and reduces signs of aging.
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Supports Liver health, aiding in detoxification.
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Helps prevent and reduce premature greying.
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Benefits digestion by supporting the Spleen and nourishing the intestines.
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Eases symptoms of dizziness, tinnitus, and palpitations related to Blood deficiency.
Western Medicine Benefits:
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High in antioxidants and anthocyanins, which protect against oxidative stress.
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Supports healthy blood circulation.
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Helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
A Foundational Approach to Hair Growth
For optimal results, combine these five herbs with a high-quality organ meat complex supplement for a complete approach to hair regeneration. This holistic strategy nourishes your body from the inside out, ensuring that your hair, skin, and overall vitality thrive at every stage of life.
With consistent use over 1-2 months, you can start to see real improvements in hair thickness and quality.
My Personal Experience
I am 55 years old, do not color my hair, and have been taking these herbs since my late 40s. My hair is thicker, healthier, and even less grey than when I started these herbs. After years of treating hair loss and related issues in my acupuncture and herbal practice, I have seen these herbs work time and time again.*
If you're ready to restore thicker, healthier hair naturally, click below to learn more about this proven herbal supplement!
Dr. Kim Drolet, DACM, LAc
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*If you experience dandruff, itching, scalp eczema or psoriasis, sudden severe hair loss, hair loss to issues besides deficiency, or underlying conditions conditions, these herbs will likely not be enough since the cause for those conditions are different and require a different herbal approach. In those cases, you can consider a customized herbal consultation for a more tailored approach by an expert, licensed Chinese herbalist. After resolution or management of those issues, the herbs and supplements discussed in this article then may be appropriate to use to further grow and strengthen your hair as needed.
Kim Drolet
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