7 Chinese Herbs for Hair Growth and Scalp Health
Published July 22, 2026 by SEASONS Wellness
Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide, and while many turn to chemical treatments or invasive procedures, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been addressing hair health for thousands of years. In TCM, the condition of your hair reflects the health of your internal organs, particularly the Kidneys, Liver, and Blood. By nourishing these systems with specific herbs, you can support healthy hair growth from the inside out.
Here are seven of the most effective Chinese herbs for promoting hair growth, reducing thinning, and maintaining a healthy scalp.
1. He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti / Polygonum multiflorum)
He Shou Wu, also known as Fo-Ti, is arguably the most famous Chinese herb for hair growth. Its name translates to "Black-Haired Mr. He," referencing a legend about an older man whose gray hair turned black again after taking the herb regularly.
How It Works
In TCM, He Shou Wu nourishes the Liver and Kidneys, the two organ systems most directly connected to hair health. The Liver stores Blood, and the Kidneys store Essence (Jing). Hair is considered the surplus of Blood, and its growth depends on adequate nourishment from both. By tonifying these organs, He Shou Wu helps restore the foundational reserves that support healthy hair.
Modern research suggests that He Shou Wu contains compounds that may promote melanin production, helping to maintain natural hair color. It also has antioxidant properties that protect hair follicles from oxidative stress.
How to Use
He Shou Wu is available as a powder, tincture, or in prepared forms. The typical dosage is 3-6 grams daily of the prepared (red) root. It can be simmered into tea, added to soups, or taken in capsule form. Consistency is key; results typically take 3-6 months.
2. Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger)
Ginger is a common kitchen spice, but in TCM, it is also a powerful herb for stimulating scalp circulation and promoting hair growth.
How It Works
Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and circulatory-stimulating properties. When applied to the scalp, ginger increases blood flow to hair follicles, ensuring they receive adequate nutrients and oxygen. In TCM terms, ginger warms the meridians and dispels cold, which can otherwise stagnate Qi and Blood flow to the scalp.
How to Use
For scalp application, grate fresh ginger and extract its juice. Gently massage the juice into the scalp, focusing on thinning areas. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing. Alternatively, ginger essential oil diluted in a carrier oil can be used as a scalp treatment. Internal use of ginger tea also supports overall circulation.
3. Dang Gui (Dong Quai / Angelica sinensis)
Dang Gui, often called the "female ginseng," is one of the premier blood-nourishing herbs in TCM. Since hair is considered a product of Blood in Chinese medicine, Dang Gui is a natural choice for hair health.
How It Works
Dang Gui tonifies Blood and invigorates blood circulation. When Blood is deficient, the scalp receives insufficient nourishment, leading to dry, brittle hair and eventual thinning. By building Blood and improving its flow to the head, Dang Gui ensures that follicles have what they need to produce strong, healthy strands.
How to Use
Dang Gui can be taken as a decoction, in tincture form, or combined with other herbs in traditional formulas like Si Wu Tang (Four-Substance Decoction). A typical dose is 3-9 grams daily. Women, in particular, benefit from Dang Gui due to its dual action on blood and hormonal balance.
4. Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries)
Goji berries have gained global popularity as a superfood, but they have been used in TCM for centuries to nourish the Liver and Kidneys and brighten the eyes and hair.
How It Works
Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. In TCM, they tonify Liver Blood and Kidney Yin, both essential for hair growth. The antioxidants in goji berries protect follicles from premature aging caused by free radicals, while their zinc and iron content provides the building blocks for healthy hair.
How to Use
Eat a small handful of goji berries daily, or steep them in hot water as tea. They can also be added to oatmeal, soups, and rice dishes. For concentrated benefits, goji berry extract is available in tincture form.
5. Sang Shen (Mulberry Fruit)
Mulberry fruit, known as Sang Shen in TCM, is a sweet, dark berry that nourishes Blood and Yin while enriching the Liver and Kidneys.
How It Works
Sang Shen directly addresses Blood deficiency, one of the primary TCM patterns underlying hair loss. When Blood is abundant and flowing well, the scalp receives consistent nourishment. Mulberry is also rich in iron and anthocyanins, supporting both the quantity and quality of blood supply to follicles.
How to Use
Enjoy fresh mulberries in season, or use dried mulberries year-round. They can be steeped as tea, added to trail mixes, or used in herbal decoctions. A typical daily amount is 10-15 grams of the dried fruit.
6. E Jiao (Donkey-Hide Gelatin)
E Jiao is a premium blood-building herb in TCM. It is particularly valued for its ability to nourish Blood and Yin, making it especially relevant for hair loss related to anemia or postpartum blood deficiency.
How It Works
E Jiao provides concentrated nourishment that directly builds Blood. It is often prescribed for women experiencing hair loss after childbirth, during menstruation, or during menopause, when Blood reserves may be depleted. By replenishing Blood, E Jiao ensures that follicles receive the nutrients needed for active growth cycles.
How to Use
E Jiao is typically sold as solid blocks or powder. It can be melted into warm water or milk, or incorporated into traditional formulas. Due to its cloying nature, it is best taken with herbs that aid digestion, such as Chen Pi (aged tangerine peel).
7. Hu Jiao (Black Pepper) and Hei Zhi Ma (Black Sesame)
While technically two ingredients, black pepper and black sesame are often used together in TCM hair formulas. They represent a powerful combination for scalp health.
How It Works
Black sesame seeds nourish the Liver and Kidneys and enrich Blood and Essence. They are traditionally consumed to darken hair and prevent premature graying. Black pepper, with its warming and penetrating properties, enhances the absorption of other herbs and stimulates scalp circulation when applied topically.
How to Use
Consume one tablespoon of black sesame seeds daily. They can be ground and sprinkled on food or made into a paste with honey. For scalp application, infused sesame oil with a pinch of black pepper can be massaged into the scalp before washing.
TCM Perspective on Hair Loss
In TCM, hair loss is rarely viewed as an isolated problem. Instead, it is seen as a reflection of internal imbalances. The most common patterns include:
- Kidney Essence deficiency: Leads to premature graying and slow growth.
- Liver Blood deficiency: Causes dry, brittle hair and increased shedding.
- Spleen Qi deficiency with dampness: Results in an oily scalp with weak roots.
- Blood heat or Blood stagnation: Can cause sudden patches of hair loss.
Identifying your specific pattern helps determine which herbs will be most effective. While the herbs above are generally safe, consulting with a licensed TCM practitioner ensures the best results.
Lifestyle Tips for Healthier Hair
- Manage stress: Chronic tension depletes Blood and disrupts Liver function. Practices like tai chi and qigong help regulate energy flow.
- Sleep before 11 PM: In the TCM body clock, the Liver regenerates between 1-3 AM, requiring deep sleep.
- Scalp massage: Daily gentle massage stimulates circulation and distributes natural oils.
- Balanced diet: Include protein, iron-rich foods, and healthy fats alongside your herbal regimen.
- Avoid excessive heat styling: Allow hair to air-dry when possible and minimize chemical treatments.
Conclusion
Chinese herbs offer a holistic, time-tested approach to hair and scalp health. Unlike quick-fix solutions, they work by addressing the root causes of hair loss: Blood deficiency, Kidney weakness, and poor circulation. With consistent use of herbs like He Shou Wu, Dang Gui, and black sesame, combined with healthy lifestyle practices, you can create the internal conditions for strong, vibrant hair to grow naturally.
Remember that hair growth is a slow process. Be patient, stay consistent, and give your body the nourishment it needs. In time, the results will speak for themselves.