Hair Lossaccording to TCM

Symptom families: Hair Conditions, Premature Aging Conditions

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, encompasses various conditions resulting in the partial or complete loss of hair. It is also referred to as baldness, excessive hair shedding, alopecia areata, receding hairline, telogen effluvium, or traction alopecia. This condition affects individuals of all genders and can have different causes and manifestations.

How Does TCM View Hair Loss?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on hair loss compared to Western medicine. While Western medicine often attributes hair loss to genetic factors or external influences, TCM delves deeper, focusing on patterns of disharmony within the body.

TCM recognizes that hair loss can be a symptom of underlying imbalances and emphasizes the importance of identifying the specific pattern of disharmony before initiating treatment.

Root Causes of Hair Loss in TCM

In TCM, hair loss can be attributed to various patterns of disharmony within the body. Two common patterns linked to hair loss are Blood Deficiency with External Wind or Blood and Qi Deficiency. Blood Deficiency with External Wind is characterized by symptoms such as hair loss, eczema, red skin eruptions, urticaria, and neurodermatitis.

Another prevalent pattern is Blood and Qi Deficiency, presenting with hair loss, lower abdominal pain, pale face, palpitations, and anemia.

Explore below more details about what might cause Hair loss according to TCM.

By Syndrome
By Organ

Blood Deficiency
Yin Deficiency
Essence Deficiency
Qi Deficiency
Wind
Heat
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Kidney
Liver

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Common Symptoms: Skin Dryness Eczema Red Skin Eruptions Urticaria Neurodermatitis Ichthyosis Psoriasis Measles

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with External Wind	Alopecia, Eczema, Red skin eruptions, Urticaria, Neurodermatitis, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Measles, Contact dermatitis, Itchy skin, Hair loss, Carbuncles, Boils, Drug rash, Skin dryness, Itching worsen at nights, Flaking skin... see more	Dang Gui Yin Zi
Qi and Blood Deficiency	Hair loss, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more	Si Wu Tang \| Tong Ru Dan

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Common Symptoms: Insomnia Sore Knees Lower Back Pain Knee Weakness Dry Mouth Dry Tongue Dizziness Blurry Vision

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin	Hair loss, Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying... see more	Er Zhi Wan
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency	Hair loss, Nighttime fever, Emaciation, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue... see more	Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang

Essence Deficiency

In TCM "Essence" (Jing) deficiency refers to a depletion of the body's fundamental substance, which is vital for growth, development, reproduction, and overall vitality. Jing, often translated as "Essence," is a unique concept in TCM, seen as the basis of all life activities and inherited from our parents. Essence deficiency manifests in various symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, weakness, slow physical or mental development, fertility issues, premature aging, weak bones, and a lackluster complexion. It can also affect the hair, leading to premature greying or hair loss. This pattern of disharmony often arises from congenital factors, chronic illness, overwork, or excessive behaviors that drain the body's resources. ... see more

Essence Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Essence Deficiency	Hair loss, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more	Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan \| Zuo Gui Wan \| Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan \| Tu Si Zi Wan

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency	Hair loss, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more	Si Wu Tang \| Tong Ru Dan

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with External Wind	Alopecia, Eczema, Red skin eruptions, Urticaria, Neurodermatitis, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Measles, Contact dermatitis, Itchy skin, Hair loss, Carbuncles, Boils, Drug rash, Skin dryness, Itching worsen at nights, Flaking skin... see more	Dang Gui Yin Zi

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency	Hair loss, Nighttime fever, Emaciation, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue... see more	Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Dizziness Blurry Vision Hair Graying Sore Knees Knee Weakness Dry Mouth Dry Tongue

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Essence Deficiency	Hair loss, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more	Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan \| Zuo Gui Wan \| Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan \| Tu Si Zi Wan
Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin	Hair loss, Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying... see more	Er Zhi Wan

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Hair Loss

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin	Hair loss, Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying... see more	Er Zhi Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Hair Loss

TCM offers a personalized approach to combat hair loss using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient's unique pattern of disharmony. These formulations aim to address the root causes of hair loss while enhancing overall health and vitality.

For instance, Dang Gui Yin Zi is recommended for Blood Deficiency with External Wind. This formula, categorized under Formulas that disperse External Wind, contains Japanese catnip (Jing Jie), known for its warming and Exterior-releasing properties.

In cases of Blood and Qi Deficiency, Si Wu Tang is commonly used. Belonging to the Formulas that tonify Blood category, it includes Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) to nourish Blood. Er Zhi Wan is prescribed for Yin Deficiency, categorized under Formulas that nourish Yin. It contains Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi) to support Yin nourishment.

These TCM formulas and herbs are selected based on the patient's pattern, providing targeted and effective hair loss treatment.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address hair loss, organized by cause and by formula type.

By Cause
By Formula Type

Blood Deficiency
Yin Deficiency
Essence Deficiency
Qi Deficiency
Wind
Heat
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Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
Formulas that warm yang and tonify
Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
Formulas that clear wind-Heat
Formulas that tonify yin and yang
Formulas that tonify blood
Formulas that regulate blood
Formulas that clear heat from deficiency

View More Types

Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Dang Gui Yin Zi

Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Blood Deficiency with External Wind

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Hair Loss Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Dang Gui Yin Zi	Blood Deficiency with External Wind
Si Wu Tang	Qi and Blood Deficiency
Tong Ru Dan	Qi and Blood Deficiency

Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Er Zhi Wan

Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Hair Loss Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Er Zhi Wan	Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang	Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency

Top Formula for Essence Deficiency:
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan

Suitable for Essence Deficiency patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Kidney Essence Deficiency

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Hair Loss Caused by Essence Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency

Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Si Wu Tang

Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Qi and Blood Deficiency

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Hair Loss Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Si Wu Tang	Qi and Blood Deficiency
Tong Ru Dan	Qi and Blood Deficiency

Top Formula for Wind:
Dang Gui Yin Zi

Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Blood Deficiency with External Wind

Learn more

Top Formula for Heat:
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause hair loss, such as Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency

Learn more

Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin.

One such formula is Er Zhi Wan, with glossy privet fruit as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for hair loss

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Zhi Wan	Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin
Zuo Gui Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency

Formulas that warm Yang and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Kidney Essence Deficiency.

One such formula is Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan, with cuscuta seeds as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that warm yang and tonify" recommended for hair loss

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency

Formulas that dredge and disperse External Wind

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Blood Deficiency with External Wind.

One such formula is Dang Gui Yin Zi, with japanese catnip as a key herb.

Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Kidney Essence Deficiency.

One such formula is Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan, with fleeceflower root as a key herb.

Formulas that tonify Blood

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Qi and Blood Deficiency.

One such formula is Si Wu Tang, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.

Formulas that regulate Blood

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Qi and Blood Deficiency.

One such formula is Tong Ru Dan, with ginseng as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat from Deficiency

These formulas are suitable for some hair loss-causing patterns like Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency.

One such formula is Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang, with softshell turtle shell as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Wind-Heat

Hair loss can be treated by these formulas if it originates from a wind-heat invasion.

One such formula is Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang, with japanese catnip as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Hair Loss

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address hair loss, organized by herb category.

By Herb Category

Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
Laxative herbs that drain downward
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Herbs that stop bleeding
Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat

View More Categories

Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency

Hair loss can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.

One such herb is Cuscuta Seeds (Tu Si Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for hair loss, like Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan.