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Hair Loss Treatment | Can Hair Loss Be Improved with TCM?

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Treating Hair Loss with Herbal Medicine

hair loss treatment

Hair loss can significantly impact one’s appearance and self-confidence. Can TCM address hair thinning and hair loss? The answer is yes. Using TCM tailored to each individual’s constitution can improve scalp health and create an environment conducive to hair growth.

At Fujidou TCM Pharmacy, we have successfully treated numerous patients struggling with hair loss and thinning. Some cases have even resulted in complete recovery from alopecia universalis. This article explores the basics of hair loss, the perspectives and treatments TCM offers, and how Fujidou approaches hair loss treatment.

Contents:

  1. What is Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)?
  2. Pathology
  3. Treatment Options
  4. Causes of Hair Loss Other Than AGA
  5. Hair Loss in Women
  6. Lifestyle Tips
  7. Proper Shampooing Techniques
  8. Hair Loss from a TCM Perspective
  9. Hair Loss Treatment at Fujidou

1. What is Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)?

According to the 2017 Clinical Practice Guidelines for Androgenetic Alopecia, AGA is characterized by a shortening of the hair growth phase (anagen) and an increase in hair follicles that remain in the resting phase (telogen). Clinically, hair on the frontal and crown areas of the scalp becomes thinner and shorter over time, eventually ceasing to appear on the skin.

Under normal conditions, the hair cycle includes the anagen phase (2–6 years), the catagen phase (2–3 weeks), and the telogen phase (3–4 months). In AGA, the anagen phase is reduced to a few months to a year, leading to premature hair shedding before the hair becomes thick or long.

Hair Growth Cycle in Normal vs. AGA Conditions

The hair growth cycle is disrupted in individuals with AGA due to genetic factors such as:

  1. High Sensitivity to Androgen Receptors:
    The X chromosome from the mother carries genes for androgen receptor sensitivity, meaning AGA traits are passed down through the maternal lineage.
  2. High Activity of 5α-Reductase:
    This enzyme converts testosterone into the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT), known as the “baldness hormone,” leading to hair follicle miniaturization and reduced hair growth.

2. Pathology

Hair follicles contain dermal papilla cells, which regulate the hair growth cycle by receiving nutrients and oxygen from capillaries. When testosterone is converted into DHT, it binds to androgen receptors in follicles, activating factors like TGF-β and DKK1, which suppress cell growth and shorten the anagen phase.

3. Treatment Options

Treatment for AGA often includes medications such as:

  • Minoxidil (topical): FDA-approved and widely used.
  • Finasteride and Dutasteride (oral): To reduce DHT levels.

(Note: Oral Minoxidil is not approved in some countries like Japan.)

4. Causes of Hair Loss Other Than AGA

  • Pityriasis Capitis (Scaly Hair Loss):
    Caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia fungi, which feed on dandruff and block hair follicles, leading to inflammation and hair loss.
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis:
    Characterized by oily, itchy scalp conditions and inflammation due to excess sebum, often exacerbated by a diet high in fats and sugars.

5. Hair Loss in Women

Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) includes conditions like androgenetic alopecia, postpartum hair loss, and traction alopecia. It often results in diffuse thinning across the crown and is more common during menopause due to hormonal changes.

6. Lifestyle Tips for Hair Health

  • Nutrition:
    Protein, vitamins, and minerals are particularly important for addressing hair loss. Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a type of protein. Since the amino acids that makeup keratin cannot be produced by the body, they must be obtained through diet. Among vitamins, the B complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E are especially crucial. As for minerals, iron and zinc are essential nutrients that promote hair growth. Zinc, in particular, is required for protein synthesis, and without it, the production of keratin—the main component of hair—cannot occur.Testosterone, a male hormone, is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) through the activity of the enzyme 5α-reductase, which can contribute to hair loss. However, zinc helps inhibit this enzyme, reducing DHT production. Some food additives can interfere with zinc absorption, so individuals who consume mostly processed foods like instant meals should be mindful of zinc deficiency. Additionally, zinc plays a role in breaking down alcohol; excessive alcohol consumption can deplete zinc levels, making it essential to monitor intake.
  • Sleep:
    Quality sleep promotes growth hormone production, which supports hair health.
  • Exercise:
    Exercise improves blood circulation, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach every part of the body. This is particularly important for individuals with low activity levels, as poor circulation and sluggish metabolism can hinder hair growth.

7. Proper Shampooing Techniques

Use warm water to rinse away dirt before shampooing. Lather shampoo in your hands first, then gently massage it into your scalp with your fingertips to avoid irritation. Thoroughly rinse afterward.

8. Hair Loss from a TCM Perspective

TCM views hair loss as an imbalance of “Qi (= vital energy),” “Blood,” and “Water.”

Stress, poor lifestyle habits, and insufficient sleep can deplete your vital energy and blood, leading to thinning hair. By restoring balance, TCM treatments aim to revitalize hair growth.

Qi Blood Water

9. Hair Loss Treatment at Fujidou

At Fujidou Kampo Pharmacy, we take the time to conduct thorough consultations to identify the underlying causes of hair loss. We assess factors such as pre-existing conditions, the balance of the Five Organs and Qi-Blood-Water, other health indicators, constitutional traits, genetics, lifestyle habits, and external influences. Based on a comprehensive evaluation, we propose tailored TCM treatments specifically designed to address each individual’s hair loss concerns.

Examples of Tailored TCM Prescriptions:

    • Qi and Blood Deficiency (気血両虚)
      This condition arises when both Qi (life energy) and Blood are insufficient, often seen after illnesses such as post-COVID hair loss. Recommended TCM prescriptions include:

      • Ninjin Yoeito (人参養栄湯)
      • Juzentaihoto (十全大補湯)
      • Kigikenchuto (帰耆建中湯) – especially for individuals with tension and hard stool
    • Blood Deficiency (血虚)
      Blood deficiency prevents adequate nourishment from reaching the scalp, leading to hair loss. In such cases, treatments that replenish Blood are selected. For those experiencing dry skin or itching, Tokiinshi (当帰飲子) is recommended.

      • Shimotsuto (四物湯)
      • Tokiinshi (当帰飲子)
    • Blood Deficiency with Water Retention (血虚水毒)
      This condition combines a lack of Blood with water retention, also known as “Suidoku” (水毒) in Kampo, where excess water accumulates in the body and causes harm. Treatments aim to replenish Blood and alleviate swelling.

      • Tokishakuyakusan (当帰芍薬散)
      • Kishakujiogan (帰芍地黄丸) – a combination of Tokishakuyakusan (当帰芍薬散) and Rokumigan (六味丸)
    • Stress or Insomnia (ストレス・不眠)
      Stress can reduce blood flow, depriving the scalp and hair of essential nutrients. Treatments that alleviate stress and improve circulation are chosen, based on the individual’s state of deficiency or excess.

      • Yokukansan (抑肝散)
      • Daisaikoto (大柴胡湯)
      • Saikokaryukotsuboreito (柴胡加竜骨牡蛎湯)
      • Shosaikoto (小柴胡湯)
      • Saikokeishito (柴胡桂枝湯)
      • Kihito (帰脾湯)
      • Kamikihito (加味帰脾湯)
      • Keishikaryukotsuboreito (桂枝加竜骨牡蛎湯)
    • Arteriosclerosis (動脈硬化)
      For individuals with signs of arteriosclerosis, the following TCM prescriptions may help:

      • Bofutsushosan (防風通聖散)
      • Keishibukuryogan (桂枝茯苓丸)
    • Seborrheic Dermatitis (脂漏性皮膚炎)
      For those suffering from oily scalp conditions with inflammation and itching, these treatments are recommended:

      • Keigairengyoto (荊芥連翹湯)
      • Jumihaidokuto (十味敗毒湯)

For patients with weak stomach function or poor appetite, strengthening the digestive system first with prescriptions like Kosharikkunshito (香砂六君子湯) can lead to better treatment outcomes for hair loss.

These treatments are tailored to the individual, addressing the root cause of hair loss while promoting overall balance and wellness.

Why Choose Fujidou for Hair Loss Treatment?

Hair growth cycles typically take 2–6 years. Treatment requires patience and consistency, with improvements often noticeable after 3–6 months.

At Fujidou, we provide thorough consultations and personalized TCM treatments tailored to your unique constitution and lifestyle. Let us support your journey to healthier, fuller hair.

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