Many people make light of hair loss, but it can be a truly traumatic experience for men and women of all ages — particularly for younger men with few peers experiencing the same problem. Men are typically advised to use Rogaine, to shave their heads, or to simply accept hair loss and move on. Those who only hear of these options miss out on the opportunity to regain the confidence that comes with having a full head of hair. Chinese medicine may be a viable solution, especially for those experiencing hair loss due to stress and nutritional deficiencies.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Before you can effectively reverse your hair loss problem, you’ll need to determine what caused your condition in the first place. Although male pattern baldness is, to some extent, genetic, a variety of other factors can also come into play. In many cases, the problem goes away on its own as soon as its underlying causes are resolved.
Nutritional deficiencies are a huge contributor to hair loss, especially for those who rarely consume B vitamins. Stress is also closely connected to the quantity and quality of your hair. Alopecia and trichotillomania are closely linked to stress and anxiety, but even those not diagnosed with specific conditions may experience balding or graying during times of significant stress.
Chinese Herbs for Hair Growth
Several different Chinese herbs can be used to address the causes underlying hair loss. Often referred to as he shou wu, fo-ti is a top Eastern hair loss treatment with a long history of success. Additionally, ligustrum lucidum can be used to improve scalp circulation, although it primarily serves as a preventative measure. Additional options for hair loss include:
- Thallus algae
- Ganoderma
- Stinging nettle
- Sesamum indicum
- Angelica sinensis
Are you interested in becoming a certified acupuncture professional?
Visit the links below to explore our specialized acupuncture programs at a campus near you:
Acupuncture
Another unconventional treatment, acupuncture can bring about a surprisingly quick reversal in hair loss. It is most effective, however, when used in conjunction with herbal therapy and massage therapy. As with Chinese herbs, the goal of acupuncture for hair loss is to correct imbalances or disharmonies that underlie changes in hair color and quantity. These imbalances vary significantly from one individual to the next, so specific information regarding each client’s current physical and mental health may prove necessary.
Acupuncture is particularly effective for those suffering alopecia as a result of hormonal imbalances. This is especially true for women with an excess of male hormones. A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that women who received daily acupuncture for six months showed similar improvements in hormone levels to those who took the drug metformin three times every day.
Hair loss can bring about a huge blow to your self-confidence, but fortunately, it doesn’t have to be permanent. Not only can you overcome hair loss, you can help others do so as well. If you’re passionate about helping others maintain a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, learn more about becoming a student in one of PCOM’s massage therapy, acupuncture, or holistic nursing programs.
More reading:
The Benefits of Scalp Massage for Hair Loss
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
Sources:
http://www.prevention.com/health/health-concerns/pcos-acupuncture-vs-metformin
http://www.itmonline.org/arts/alopecia.htm
http://www.progressivehealth.com/chinese-hair-loss-herbs.htm
http://www.naturalnews.com/035817_Chinese_herbs_hair_loss_baldness.html
