Hair Care Tips

1. What is the proper procedure for washing hair?
Step 1: Rinse your hair with warm water. Step 2: Squeeze shampoo onto your palm and rub to lather before applying on your hair. Do not apply shampoo directly on your hair. Step 3: Do not scratch your scalp with finger nails; instead use your finger pulps to gently massage it. Step 4: Rinse your hair thoroughly to avoid leaving any residue on your scalp.
2. How many times a week should I wash my hair to prevent hair loss?
We should wash our hair daily to wash away sebum on our scalp that can clog up our hair follicles. Daily hair wash and hair care routines are the key to healthy looking hair. Getting rid of the dirt on the hair is the most basic step, so that your hair can absorb the nutrients more effectively. Chinese herbs such as Chinese knotweed root, Chinese angelica root, Wolfberry tree fruit, Black sesame, helps achieve radiant-looking hair.
3. Which can prevent hair loss - Hot shower or cold shower?
There is a general misconception that a hot shower helps get rid of sebum on the scalp and a cold rinse after that helps unclog pores, which keeps the hair clean and dry. It is true that a hot shower removes dirt more easily, but it will stimulate sebum secretion on the scalp. Rinsing it with cold water after that will cause the sebum to stay on the scalp. Hence, set water temperature for your shower between 37ºC to 38ºC, which is the most appropriate.
4. Would air-conditioned room can also cause dandruff problem?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, low temperature will cause chill in the body and thus poor blood circulation and kidney deficiency, which can cause hair loss. The dryness in an air-conditioned room can also cause dandruff problem.
5. Would excessive dieting lead to hair loss?
Blood is the main channel to nutrients for hair follicles. Hence, it is important to have balanced nutrition in order to achieve beautiful and radiant hair. Excessive dieting causes malnutrition, and will lead to hair loss and other hair-related problems.

Herbal Remedies For Dandruff

Scalp irritation is commonly known as the dandruff. In general, dandruff can be defined as the state of skin in which the silvery and shiny scales get torn from the scalp and accumulated in the hair. According to the experts and dermatologists the main cause ofdandruff is yeast like fungus which is called as malassezia. This type of fungus is mostly found on the scalp but it doesn’t cause any type of problems.

If in case the growth of this fungus is not checked then this can lead to the generation of the dead skin cells. Some of the most common reasons of its growth are the mild inflammation, increased oil production, illness, less usage of the shampoos, immune suppression, stress and the hormonal imbalance. In fact the situation can become more worrisome and disconcerting if the skin starts getting infected.

Some of the common symptoms of dandruff: the most common symptoms of occurrence of dandruff are the scaling scalp, itchy feeling, oily looking and white flakes of the dead skins in the hair as well as on shoulders. It had been noticed that the scalp can either be excessively oily or it can be excessively dry. Most of the health experts and dermatologists believe that the most important causes of the dandruff are the low resistance of the body because of constipation and the infections, generation of toxic materials in the body because of intake of the wrong types of food and the impairment of the general health.

Some of the herbal and natural remedial treatment for dandruff:

1. Almond oil and olive oil: in order to get the effective results, mix these two oils in equal ration and massage into your scalp. Leave the mixture intact for the 5 minutes and then rinse your hair with the normal water.
2. Ginger: the root of the ginger can be mixed with the olive oil. Before shampooing your hair, you can apply this mixture on the scalp. In case if the condition is worst then you have to apply the mixture for the duration of 10 to 15 minutes before shampooing your hair.
3. Rosemary Rub: you can also use rosemary oil for the treatment of the dandruff. If you want to have a better mixture then mixes the olive oil with the crushed rosemary. Then leave this mixture for about 15 minutes into the scalp.
4. Tea Tree Oil: it is a natural occurring ingredient which is very useful in the cure of the dandruff.
5. Fenugreek Seeds: these fenugreek seeds are considered to be the most important element in the treatment of dandruff. You can take the 2 tablespoons of these seeds and soak them in the water overnight. Then in the morning you can grind these seeds to form a paste and then this paste can be applied all over the scalp. Leave the mixture for around half an hour.
6. Lime: while washing the hair, a teaspoon of fresh lime juice can also be used for the last rinse.

Anti-dandruff Shampoo with Chinese Herbal Essence Shampoo Series

Anti-dandruff and Itch Relief Formula.

This product is formulated and manufactured by BA WANG International Scientific Research Center, China’s foremost center for Trichology Research. The BAWANG Anti-dandruff Shampoo combines Ancient Chinese wisdom with modern pharmacology and biotechnology to bring optimum haircare results the user. It is enriched with various Chinese Herbal Extracts, including Chinese Honey Locust, Peppermint, Arborvitae Twig and Leaf (carbonized). BAWANG Anti-dandruff shampoo cleans and protects your hair, conditioning it from roots to ends. Upon each application, this shampoo acts deeply within and on the surface of your hair to help reduce extra sebum & prevent dandruff, effectively relieving itch. This results in healthier and dandruff-free hair with a cooler scalp.

This BAWANG Anti-dandruff shampoo is mild and suitable for all hair types.

The official website is here

This is another one that I'm thinking of using too.  Wondering if I stop my dandruff problem, my hair thinning problem would go away.  Or do I need to use both?

If you have any experience in using this, please post a comment below.  Thanks.

BAWANG Anti-hair Fall and Renewal Shampoo

Effectively reduces hair fall and help hair grow.

Seborrheic alopecia is an ordinary hair loss problem (more than 95% hair-loss people suffer from seborrheic alopecia), mainly manifesting as hair greasiness resulting from excess sebum, thinning & whitening hair, dry and itchy scalp etc. 

This product is manufactured by BAWANG International Scientific center originated from “Renowned Family of Traditional Chinese herbs” based on the causes of seborrheic alopecia, combining Chinese herbs secret formula and internationally-advanced biotechnology. It contains precious Chinese herbs extracts such as Gastraodia Tuber, Radix Rehmanniae, Sophora Flavescens, Polygonum, Cuscuta chinensis, Szechuan Lovage Rhizome, Arborvitae Leaf.  It can help restrain and balance sebum, nourish hair follicles, strengthen hair root to make hair stronger and prevent hair loss.

The official website is here

Am thinking of trying this out....

Have anyone tried this, and would like to share the results?  Please post in the comments below.  

D+7 day after the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

Today marks the 7th day after the therapy, and I am seeing a little bit of dandruff.  Seems like the effects of my last therapy had reached it's limit for keeping my dandruff away.  Though I had been diligently washing my hair everyday, to try to maintain it's effect, it could not last me more than a week.

Oh dear.  I better think of something else, and fast!

D+5 day after the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

My hair and scalp is still free of dandruff so far after 5 days, but still feeling the itch occasionally.  I must say that the therapy was effective, and so far so good.  Let's keep it that way.  Haha.

D+2 day after the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

My hair and scalp is still free of dandruff so far, but I'm beginning to feel the itch coming back.  Wonder if the effects of the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy can last a few more days.  Let's just hope so.  So much about today.

D+1 day after the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

I must say that the therapy does helps me in clearing my dandruff.  There are still no signs of them returning yet.  I had been diligently washing my hair with 'Clear' Anti-dandruff shampoo, hoping that it stays that way.  lol.

I am able to wear my black jacket today confidently without checking out my shoulders to see if there were many dandruff.  It feels great too.  *cross my fingers*  Hopes it stays clean and clear.

My Visit to Oriental Hair Solutions

This morning I went to the Oriental Hair Solutions at the Ngee Ann City for the 5 in 1 Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy.  I am happy with the therapy and treatment, the effects looks promising.  However, I can't say that I'm impressed by the consultant.

The trial starts with a health questionnaire that I had to fill in.  Then I had the consultant to tell me things that I already knew, and some I had provided the answers in the questionnaire.  She then proceed to show me the pictures of my scalp and there were plenty of dandruff and how oily and sensitive my scalp was.  After that, it was pretty much sales talk and how their treatment can help me.  Showing more pictures of other customer with their before and after treatment effects.  When I asked about whether my hair were thinning or is my hair line receding.  She asked me if I think my hair is thinning or dropping.  Huh?  I thought it would be good if she of check on me or do something more professional, instead of asking for my observations.  I'm asking because I wanted your professional views.  Not my observations.

The entire treatment lasted about 80 mins.  Starting with some high frequency machines breaking down all my dandruff.  Not sure if it is useful but the consultant recommended that I should do that before the treatment.  So this is something outside of the trial, and it costs an additional $40.  It lasted less than 5 minutes though.  I'm wondering if it's all worthwhile.

Then another lady took over the consultant to continue my treatment.  The consultant took flight as if she was busy.  But I happened to be the only customer there.  First, I had the Scalp peeling mask, followed by wrapping my head up and connect it with some machine again.  This time round, it was supposed to be providing my scalp with more oxygen.  Man, this thing is really hot!  It's steaming my hair.  After 20 minutes, I went for a herbal wash to remove the mask.  That felt really good.  Finally, it ended with applying some hair tonic with a good scalp massage.

The consultant again took some pictures of my scalp after the treatment to show me the effects.  I am pleased, but not enough to entice me to sign on a package.  She continued to tell me that I would need at least another 10 session to get my scalp to be cleaned.  When I asked her if that would be all that's required, she told me that I had to 'do maintenance' and to keep on coming back.

Huh? It's not that cheap, and I don't think I would want to sign the package now.  Anyway, I paid $62+ for what is supposed to be a $18 trial.  Thanks for the trial, and I'm glad that I took leave to give it a try.  I would recommend others to give the $18 first trial a try, without the promotion, I thought it was just expensive.

Here is the link to the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

Here are some of my thoughts on the therapy. 

Finally called the Oriental Hair Solutions

I finally got the time to call the Oriental Hair Solutions to make an appointment for the $18 first trial of the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy.  I took leave on the coming Monday, 7 Mar 2011, and will be going to the Ngee Ann City branch.

The lady whom picked up my call told me that it's going to be a 2 hours session.  I hope it's all worth it.  Follow my blog.  I will write more about the therapy again.

Here is the link to the Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

Here are some of my thoughts on the therapy.

Hair Damage Repair

"Whether it's heat, chemicals, dyes, or styling, it's all doing some degree of damage," Mirmirani says. "A good rule of thumb is, the less you do to your hair, the better."

The good news is today's products, including dyes, are much better suited to our hair than 20 years ago, with technology and research helping to make most styling products actually beneficial to our hair.

How can you undo some of the damage done through countless visits to the salon?

"There are two things you can do," Mirmirani says. "First, cut off the damaged ends and start fresh. And try reducing what you're doing. ... If you notice your hair looking dull and dry, cut back on your styling until you get your hair back."

Larry Baron, the owner and head stylist at Spa Christine in Boston, says the trick to keeping your hair healthy is to maintain its pH balance.

"In order to close the hair cuticle and bring it back to health, you need to keep its pH balance at 4.5 -- that's the level at which your hair will look its best," he tells WebMD. "When it starts to creep up, that's when it starts to look like straw."

Baron's recommendations for maximizing hair health:

• Always put product on your hair before you style with heat. "By putting the product on before you style, you're heating the product, not the hair," Baron tells WebMD. 
• Use extensions and cornrows wisely. "If extensions or cornrows are too tight, it can damage your roots by causing too much tension," Baron says. "There's a new technique where you can have extensions glued in and then removed using baby oil, but whatever way you choose, don't overdo it -- hair is strong, but it does have a breaking point."
• Cut your losses. "When your hair is really damaged and dry, amputate," Baron says. "Just cut it off and start over."

More information can be found here.

8 Ways You're Damaging Your Hair

So as we perm and color our way to the hair we want, when we want it, are we actually doing more harm than good to our locks? Here are eight ways our beauty habits cause hair damage:

1. Bleaching - "Bleaching your hair penetrates the cuticle with chemicals and removes your natural pigment," Mirmirani says. "You are changing the structure of your hair, making it more susceptible to damage."

Once you bleach, she explains, you've altered the strength of your hair, making it weaker. If you add blow drying and styling on top of bleaching, you can really damage your 'do, causing hair breakage, a dull look, and split ends.

2. Perms - "Perming refers to either a chemical straightening or a chemical curling," Mirmirani says. "It works by breaking the inner bonds of the hair and re-forming them back together in a different way."

Like bleaching, it weakens your hair, leaving it dull and damaged over time so that instead of luxurious curly locks or shiny straight tresses, your hair looks brittle and dry.

3. Highlights and coloring - Highlights and semi-permanent dyes aren't as damaging as bleach, but they aren't without consequences, Mirmirani says. They can also change the inner structure of the hair, causing a lackluster look and dryness, especially if you frequently color to hide roots or gray hair.

4. Flat iron and blow-drying - "Heat causes temporary changes to the hydrogen bonds that hold hair together," Mirmirani says, and that can make hair look dull.

Over time, the temporary changes can lead to more permanent damage if you tend to blow dry or iron on a daily basis.

5. Ponytails and braids - "Ponytails and braids can cause hair to break, especially if your style is pulled tightly," Mirmirani says. "If you wear it that way every day, permanent hair damage can occur."
Braiding or putting your hair in a ponytail when it's wet can cause damage sooner because wet hair is more fragile.

6. Over-brushing - Think 100 strokes a day will make your hair shiny and full? Think again.
"Over-brushing your hair can cause split ends and breakage, with the over-brushing causing just too much consistent friction for hair to handle," Mirmirani says.

Cheap brushes don't help either, causing snags and tangles that are hard to get out and resulting in broken hair and split ends.

7. Over-shampooing - "The goal of shampooing is to cleanse the scalp and remove oil buildup on your hair," Mirmirani says.

But over-washing can wash away your hair's natural moisture that helps your hair look healthy, making your hair dry. Although a significant amount of research has gone into making shampoos beneficial for your hair, you can still get too much of a good thing.

"The less vigorous you are in washing your hair, the less damage you'll do to the cuticle," Mirmirani tells WebMD. "And find a frequency to washing your hair that works for you ... whether it's a few times a week or every day."

How do you know when you are overdoing it?
"I have African-American patients who wash their hair once a week to avoid drying it out," Mirmirani says. "You can tell when it's too much if it starts to get dull, which means it's time to scale back on the shampooing."

8. Extensions and weaves - Extensions and weaves are a lot like ponytails and braids. Over time, they can leave hair broken and brittle. The difference is the damage is at the roots where it is harder to cut out.

"If you have a discomfort or ache in the scalp, that indicates that what you've done to your hair is causing too much pressure at the roots," Mirmirani says.

Worse, traction alopecia is a serious hair loss condition caused by wearing tight hairstyles like extensions for too long a time period. So either keep it loose, or try growing your hair instead of going for instant length.


More information can be found here.

何首乌功效及作用

何首乌功效及作用：
 
1.与功效主治相关的药理作用 　　

(1)促进造血功能 　　
小鼠皮下注射首乌液0.2g，每日2次，连续给药3日，可使粒系祖细胞的产率明显高于生理盐水对照组。小鼠腹腔注射何首乌提取液50mg/kg连续给药3日，可使骨髓造血干细胞明显增加，还可显著提高小鼠粒一单系祖细胞产生率，并使骨髓红系祖细胞值明显升高。 　　

(2)增强免疫功能 　　
何首乌对强的松龙和环磷酰胺引起的老年小鼠脾、胸腺抑制性改变有明显对抗作用，使脾巨噬细胞的吞噬率和吞噬指数明显提高。饲喂首乌乙醇浸膏能明显提高老年大鼠外周淋巴细胞 DNA的损伤修复能力。小鼠灌服制首乌 6g/kg，连续给药 7日，能明显提高腹腔巨噬细胞的吞噬能力，对强的松龙引起的吞噬指数下降，有明显的对抗作用。 　　

(3)降血脂与抗动脉粥样硬化 　　
高脂血症大鼠每日灌胃何首乌 4g/kg，连续 10日，能较显著地降低大鼠血清总胆固醇（TC）及血清甘油三酯（TG）的含量。对于高脂血症鹌鹑， 连续灌胃首乌4周，可明显降低血清TC含量和提高 HDL/TC比值。另有实验证明，高脂血症及动脉粥样硬化模型家兔，何首乌灌胃7日，不仅能降低TC含量，还能减轻动脉粥样硬化斑块形成。何首乌水提液 32g/kg喂养小鼠1个月，能明显提高 HDL- C水平。何首乌掺入到饲料中喂养大鼠，90日后，也可明显升高HDL-C，而TG和TC无明显变化，对β脂蛋白有明显抑制作用。何首乌醇提取液给快速动脉 粥样硬化鹌鹑灌胃，连续6周，血浆HDL-C/TC比值显著升高，大剂量组作用更为显著。各给药组均有延缓动脉粥样硬化的作用。何首乌降血脂与抗胆固醇作 用的有效成分包括蒽醌类、二苯烯化合物以及卵磷脂等。 　　

(4)保肝 　　
何首乌所含的二苯烯化合物对过氧化玉米油所致大鼠脂肪肝和肝功能损 害，肝脏过氧化脂质升高、血清谷丙转氨酶及谷草转氨酶升高等均有明显对抗作用，并使血清游离脂肪酸及肝脏过氧化脂质含量下降。在体外能抑制由ADP、 NADPH引起的大鼠肝微粒体脂质过氧化。何首乌还有增加肝糖原作用。生首乌、黑豆汁制首乌和清蒸首乌水煎液对醋酸强的松所致肝脂蓄积有对抗作用，可降低 CCl4引起的肝肿大，使肝重系数降低。 　　

(5)延缓衰老，现代调查有维生素E制止皱纹再生。 　　
何首乌水煎液喂服老年小鼠或青年小鼠，能使脑和肝中蛋白质含量明显增加，提高老年机体DNA修复能力。何首乌的醇提物及水提物能不同程度地增加老年大鼠胸腺胞浆蛋白和核酸含量。 　　何首乌延缓衰老作用与抗氧化作用有关。老年小鼠灌服何首乌水煎浓缩液，能明显增强血中SOD活 性。炮制对首乌抗氧化作用有一定影响，新法炮制品及老法炮制品均有明显提高小鼠全血及脑组织SOD活性作用，并能降低小鼠心、肝、脑组织中及血中LPO含 量，生品对SOD和LPO无明显影响。首乌醇提液或水提提液均能不同程度地提高老年大鼠心、肝、脑的组织SOD含量和降低LPO含量。 　　

(6)对内分泌的影响 　　
何首乌水煎浓缩液长期给小鼠灌胃，可使小鼠肾上腺重量明显增加。何首乌还有类似肾上腺皮质功能 的作用，对摘除双侧肾上腺的小鼠，可使其应激能力明显提高，减少冷冻引起的小鼠死亡率。制首乌对去甲肾上腺素饥饿小鼠肝糖原积累，有促进作用，使肝糖原明 显增加。何首乌对血糖的影响有一定的时效关系，给家兔口服首乌煎剂后30、60分钟内血糖升高达峰值，之后逐渐下降，6小时后血糖比正常低。大鼠肝胰岛素 受体具有高亲和力低容量，及低亲和力高容量两种受体，老年小鼠结合容量显著降低，但亲和力无变化。何首乌对容量和亲和力两个参数均无明显影响。 　　

(7)润肠通便 　　
何首乌生用，润肠通便作用强，其有效成分大黄酚可促进动物肠管运动。部分高脂血症病人服用后，出现大便次数增加和腹泻现象。 　　

2.其他药理作用 　　

曾有报道，何首乌各种炮制品（生首乌、酒蒸首乌、黑豆汁蒸首乌、清蒸首乌）水煎液体外对金黄色葡萄球菌、白色葡萄球菌、福氏痢疾杆菌、宋内氏痢疾杆菌、伤寒杆菌901、 副伤寒杆菌从白喉杆菌、乙型溶血性链球菌等均有不同程度的.抑制作用，其中生首乌煎剂抗金黄色葡萄球菌作用比其他炮制品强，制首乌水煎剂对白色葡萄球菌， 酒蒸首乌水煎剂和地黄汁蒸首乌水煎剂对白喉杆菌的抑制作用比其他首乌强。何首乌对流感病毒有一定抑制作用。此外，何首乌还有减慢心率、扩张冠脉、抗心肌缺 血等作用。 　　综上所述，与何首乌补肝肾，益精血，乌须发，强筋骨功效相关的药理作用是促进造血功能，提高机体免疫功能，降血脂，抗动脉粥样硬化，保肝，延缓衰老，影响内分泌功能，润肠通便等作用。何首乌功效作用的物质基础主要为磷脂、蒽醌类、葡萄糖苷类等成分。

Effects of He Shou Wu 何首乌

I did some search on the effects and usage of He Shou Wu 何首乌, and it seems like it has much other effects and usage of it than turning gray hair back to its original colors.  Read its other usage below:

 

中药功效

解毒，消痈，润肠通便。用于瘰疠疮痈，风疹瘙痒，肠燥便秘；高血脂。 　　

1、骨软风疾（腰膝疼痛，遍身瘙痒，行步困难）。用何首乌（以有花纹者为最好）、牛膝各一斤，同在好酒中泡七夜，取出晒干，捣烂，加枣肉和成丸子，如梧子大。每服三十至五十丸。空心服，酒送下。 　　

2、皮里作痛（不知痛在何处）。用何首乌末，姜汁调成膏涂搽，搽后用布包住，以火烘鞋底熨按。 　　

3、自汗不止。用何首乌末，调唾液，封脐上。 　　

4、肠风下血。用何道乌二两，研为末。每服二钱，饭前服，米汤送下。 　　

5、破伤血出。用何首乌末敷上即止。有特效。 　　

6、瘰疬结核（或破或不破，下至胸前者皆可治），用何首乌根洗净，每日生嚼，并取叶捣烂涂患处。 　　

7、痈疽毒疮。用何首乌不限量，在文武火上熬煎，加酒等量，再煎开几次后，存酒，随时饮用；取药渣焙干，研为末，以酒煮面调成丸子，如梧子大。每服三十丸，空心服，温酒送下。病愈后，药可常服。 　　

8、大风疠疾。用何首乌（以大而有花纹者为好）一斤，泡淘米水中七天，反复蒸、晒数次，加胡麻四两，再蒸再晒，研为末，每服二钱，酒送下，一天服二次。 　　

9、疥癣。用何首乌、区叶等分，水煎浓汤洗 浴，可以解痛、生肌肉。用何首乌茎、叶煎汤洗浴，也有效。　

Side Effects of He Shou Wu 何首乌

It seems like even TCM may not be without side effects.  Here's some side effects that He Shou Wu, a herbal remedy most widely used for returning gray hair back to its original color, may have.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the herbal remedy he shou wu (何首乌, sometimes known as fo ti) is prescribed to enhance general health and increase life span, but its claim to fame is that it also is said to return gray hair to its original color. The direct English translation of he shou wu is "Black-haired Mr. He." In Chinese medicine theory, the kidneys control the growth and color of hair, and he shou wu is said to benefit the liver and kidneys. A commercial product called Fo Ti does not contain he shou wu but is often confused with it because of the similarity in names. Fo Ti can have severe side effects that sometimes have been attributed wrongly to he shou wu due to this confusion. As with any single herbal remedy, though, he shou wu may have side effects of its own.

Loose Stools

He shou wu is sometimes used as a stool softener. It contains the substance emodin, which is a laxative and also is thought to be a liver protective agent. If you take too much or are sensitive to this herb, you may get diarrhea. This effect is primarily connected with taking the unprocessed root form of he shou wu.

Skin Rash

Some people who are sensitive to he shou wu may develop a skin rash. This is rare, but it is a recorded side effect that occurs when high doses of the herb are consumed.

Numbness

Reports of numbness in the arms and legs have been connected with the use of he shou wu. This effect only occurs when 15 or more grams of he shou wu are consumed in a daily dose, far above those recommended in the professional literature.

Estrogenic Effect

He shou wu has a moderate estrogenic effect, meaning it mimics the effect of the hormone estrogen in women. Even though he shou wu does not elevate human estrogen levels, it contains substances that can stimulate the growth of cancers that are sensitive to estrogen-like substances, so women battling certain cancers should not take it.

Liver Dysfunction

Rare reports of liver problems such as jaundice, abnormal function and hepatitis have been connected with the use of he shou wu. In some of these cases, the patients were taking a modified version of he shou wu called Shen-Min. This product for hair loss contains he shou wu combined with other herbs.

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/149915-side-effects-of-he-shou-wu/#ixzz1F4XH8PE3

Natural Hair Loss Remedy - Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herbs

Chinese medicine is effective at treating hair loss and the underlying conditions that cause hair loss. Many Chinese herbs have a record of promoting hair growth that spans thousands of years as effective hair loss remedies. How do Chinese herbs restore the hair?

They build blood, balance hormones, restore Kidney Energy, and direct nourishing blood to the scalp.

Hair loss and thinning hair can result from many causes including stress, poor nutrition (especially a Vitamin B and mineral deficiency), hormonal imbalance, certain prescription drugs,  thyroid disease, cancer (and more specifically cancer treatment), and genetics. All of these hair loss conditions can occur in both men and women. Much like heart disease prevention, even hair loss based in genetics can be addressed with Chinese medicine.

Genetic pattern baldness is often attributed to the chemical DHT (5-alpha Di-HydroTestosterone). It has been found that increasing levels of DHT in hair follicles cause a reaction that reduces blood flow to the follicle and the impairs the growth cycle of  hair. This results in follicle shrinkage and finer and shorter hairs, eventually the follicle dies and stops producing hair. Areas that are 'shiny bald' no longer have live follicles. Areas with shorter, fuzzy, fine hairs still have live follicles that may respond to Chinese tonic herb remedies.

In Chinese Medicine, hair is a direct reflection of the Kidney energy, Liver energy and Blood: a lack of circulation or insufficient amounts of Blood can result in the loss of hair. The Kidney and Liver influence the hormones strongly. The conditions of the hair follicles can also be affected by the toxicity of the blood, and the Liver and Kidney are important organs of elimination of toxins.

The first step in treating hair loss naturally is to improve circulation to the head/scalp, as well as improve the quality of the blood with specific natural herb remedies such as fo-ti or he shu wu, drynaria, dang gui, sesame, and ligustrum. Early intervention is the key to limiting hair loss and promoting hair re-growth. Herbal tonic treatment can vary from 3-12 months depending on the severity of the condition and the length of time that the condition has existed.

Traditional Chinese Medicine can effectively treat hair loss & thinning hair with Chinese tonic herb remedies. The main Chinese herb remedy for hair loss in this formula is he shou wu, or fo ti. It is the best Chinese herb for hair, known for its beneficial effects on strengthening the hair, building Blood, and reversing graying of the hair. Other ingredients include the highly esteemed reishi mushroom to enhance the Kidney energy, Ligustrum to improve blood circulation of the scalp, and other Chinese herbs that restore beautiful hair and skin.

The Chinese way of naturally healthy hair rely on tonic-type herbs that are used over time. Along with proper living habits such as good sleeping patterns, exercise such as walking, tai-qi or yoga, and organic whole foods; natural Chinese tonic herb remedies play an important role in healthy hair.

This natural Chinese herb remedy for hair loss and thinning hair will restore overall health and vitality by supplying the basic building blocks through chemical constituents present in the herbs that are necessary to nourish the hair and skin through the Liver and  Kidney systems. After all, the whole body must thrive in order to have luscious, strong, healthy hair.

The main Chinese herb for hair is he shou wu, or fo ti. It is the best Chinese herb for hair, known for its beneficial effects on strengthening the hair, building Blood, and reversing graying of the hair. Other ingredients include the highly esteemed reishi mushroom to enhance the Kidney energy, Ligustrum to improves blood circulation of the scalp, and other Chinese herbs that restore beautiful hair and skin.

Along with proper living habits such as good sleeping patterns, meditation, exercise such as walking, tai-qi or yoga, and organic whole foods, natural Chinese tonic herbs play an important role in healthy hair and healthy aging skin care.

Herbs for Hair Loss:

Polygonum multiflorum - he shou wu - Fo Ti
The Chinese say that long-term use of this famous "longevity herb" helps return an aging person to youthfulness, as it strengthens the back. The literal translation of the name he shu wu is "black-haired Mr. He" refering to the Chinese legend where Mr. He returned from living in the woods for some time, and his grey hair had turned to black. As it turned out, Mr. He had been consuming fo ti herb to survive. Fo ti is known as the best herb to restore hair color and nourish the skin, hair, teeth and nails. This top Chinese herb is a classic essence tonic and major blood tonic that cleanses the blood.

Ganoderma lucidum - ling zhi - Reishi Mushroom
The Reishi mushroom has an unparalleled reputation in the Orient as the ultimate herbal substance often used to cure immune disorders. For over two thousand years it has been sought-after by mountain sages and by the emperors of China known as the best anti-aging herb. In the first Chinese herbal text (Shennong’s Pharmacopeia) it says that "continuous consumption of Reishi makes your body light and young, lengthens your life and turns you into one like the immortal who never dies." Reishi was traditionally called "the mushroom of immortality."

Schisandra chinensis-wu wei zi
Schizandra is a famous Tonic herb historically consumed by Chinese royalty. It is renowned as a beauty tonic and is considered to be one of the best anti aging, youth preserving herbs. It has been one of the top herbs used for centuries to make the skin soft, moist and radiant.

Ligustrum lucidum-nu zhen zi
A Yin Kidney and Liver tonic herb which is said by the Chinese to prolong life. It is a significant immune enhancing agent. Ligustrum herb is also used as a blood tonic that helps to enhance hair restoration.

Thallus algae-kun bu-Seaweed
Seaweed has many micronutrients & minerals necessary for good health and beautiful hair, skin and nails.

Morus Albus-sang shen-Mulberry fruit spike
Builds blood, nourishes yin and moistens the intestines. Traditionally used in China for premature graying of the hair, mulberry increases nourishment for hair growth.

Urtica dioica - Stinging nettle
Highly nutritious herb containing a multitude of minerals necessary for proper hair growth.

Psoraleae corylifolia-bu gu zhi
A popular Chinese herb to restore premature gray hair to it's natural color. Psoralia also prevents hair loss. As a Yang Tonic, it strengthens Kidney energy.

Ligustrum chuanxiong-chuan xiong- Lovage Root Wallichi
Invigorates the Blood and directs Blood upward, allowing nourishment to reach the head and enhance hair growth.

Rehmannia glutinosa-shu di huang
A Kidney tonic and longevity herb and is found in "anti-aging" formulations for longevity, and rejuvenation. It is a first-class blood tonic that helps to boost hair growth, and benefit sexual functions in men and women.

Dendrobium-she hu-Orchid
This variety of Chinese orchid is an excellent Yin tonic and longevity herb.  Dendrobium is the top herb for restoring moist skin and repairing skin at a cellular level, thus generate beautiful skin. Dendrobium is one of the top Chinese anti-aging herbs.

Angelica sinensis - dang gui
A common herb for invigorating the blood and qi in the Lower Jiao, especially when blood has been stagnated by cold. Dang Gui is considered the best herbs for building blood.

Eclipta prostrata-han lian cao
A rejuvinating tonic for the Liver and Kidney Yin, eclipta supports healthy hair growth. Protects the Liver.

Sesame Indicum-hei zhi ma-Black Sesame Seed
Black sesame seed is a fabulous longevity herb. In addition to its essence-building capacity, it enhances hair growth.

Alisma plantago-aquatica-ze xie-Water Plantain Root
Alisma herb has mild tonic qualities, especially affecting the Kidney/Bladder, and the Spleen/Stomach.

Poria cocos-fu ling
Poria is a fungus that grows on the roots of pine trees widely used in Chinese herbalism to leach out dampness, drain phlegm, and move fluid stagnation.

Salvia miltiorrhiza-dan shen-Red Sage Root
Salvia is a "blood vitalizing" herb used to improve circulation and break up blood stagnation. Recent research in China and Japan indicates that salvia improves the condition and functioning of entire cardiovascular system. It is a famed longevity herb.

What Causes Hair Loss According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy hair depends on an abundant flow of qi and blood to the scalp and hair roots. If this nourishing flow is compromised, the hair will suffer.

Diminished nourishment is most usually caused by:

Blood Deficiency (Blood vacuity)
Blood is made through the digestive process, and blood deficiency can be caused by dietary, or digestive insuficiencies. If the blood lacks nourishing components the best remedy is He Shou Wu, also known as Fo Ti, or polygani multiflori, or fleeceflower root.

Constrained flow (Qi stagnation)
Stress and emotional constraint can restrict the flow of qi and blood in the chest, neck, shoulders, face and head. Massage, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help restore this flow.

Patency of the vessels
The size, diameter, and health of the tiny blood vessels that conduct nourishment to the hair can also play a part. Genetic factors as well as acquired factors can weaken the patency of the vessels making these capillaries fragile or narrow.

Herbal Scalp and Hair Therapy

This looks good.  My wife had gone for the treatment before and find that it was good. They are still having the promotion.  I'm going to make an appointment to give it a try.

Just wonder should I sign up their package.  It's so expensive in the long run.

Details of the promotions are here.

Ps. Btw, anyone with any experience to share on this Herbal Scalp/Hair Therapy?  Please feel free to leave your comments below.  Thanks.  

Read more on the therapy here:

http://iwantmyhealth.blogspot.com/2011/03/finally-called-oriental-hair-solutions.html

Here are some of my thoughts on the therapy.  

Hair Care Tips for Men

1. Pat Dry
Towel drying is one of the biggest causes of damage to men's hair. When hair is wet, it is highly susceptible to damage. When the hair is rubbed with a towel, some of the hairs become tangled in the threads of the towel and become stretched to the breaking point, causing damage to the cuticle (the shingle-like outer layer of the hair), frizziness, and split ends. To properly towel dry, shake out the excess water and stroke your hair in the direction it grows, rather than rubbing the hair with the towel. Drying takes a bit longer this way but after a few haircuts, you'll notice the difference in the way your hair looks. Blow drying is also a common cause of damage to the hair. Excessive blow drying can dry out the hair and scalp. If you must use a blow dryer, apply a thermal styling spray or detangler to coat the hair and protect it from damage, use a wide-tooth comb to prevent pulling, and always leave the hair slightly damp. This will prevent over drying the hair.

2. Cool Off
Nothing feels better than a piping hot shower, but it's wreaking havoc on your hair and scalp. Very hot water strips too much of the essential oil from the hair and scalp and leads to dryness.

3. Avoid Chemical Treatments
Repeatedly coloring or perming hair can leave it damaged, dry, and dull. I recommend avoiding at-home chemical products and seek a good stylist for such services. A stylist will know how to properly prepare you hair and choose the best products for your hair type. Results from a trained professional will almost always look more natural than those which can be produced at home.
 
4. Use a Good Shampoo and Conditioner
A good shampoo and conditioner will help cleanse the hair, add moisture and elasticity, and smooth the cuticle to add shine.

5. Use the Right Tools
Don't use a brush on wet hair, when the hair is most vulnerable. When combing through wet hair, use a wide-toothed comb and gently work out any tangles. Avoid heated tools such as blow dryers or irons which can dry and damage hair.

6. Stay Healthy
The condition of your hair is often a reflection of the overall health of your body. Eat well, exercise, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and reduce stress in your life. Doing so will result in a healthier scalp and great looking hair. Living well and staying healthy will also increase the rate of hair growth.

7. Avoid Tight Hats
A tight hat (or ponytail) can cause "traction alopecia," a condition in which hair is pulled out of the scalp. If worn long enough, the damage can become permanent. A tight hat or ponytail can also cause damage to the cuticle and breakage.

8. Keep it Trimmed
Since the only real way to remove damaged hair is to cut off the damaged section, keeping your hair trimmed regularly will help eliminate split ends. Even if you're growing your hair out, make sure to get it trimmed about every six weeks, but make it clear to your barber or stylist that you only want enough hair removed to eliminate the damage.

9. Reduce Frizz
Low moisture and protein in the hair can cause frizz. To minimize this problem, use a good moisturizing conditioner. A slick, smoothing serum can be applied to add shine and give the hair a smoother appearance.

10. Maintain a Healthy Scalp
Hair starts from the scalp, so for hair that's sleek, strong, and shiny, make sure you take good care of your scalp by following our Scalp Care Tips.
 
Since hair is such a big part of your appearance, keeping it well maintained will make you more attractive. Following the simple guidelines above will put you on your way to a healthy looking head of hair.

More tips can be found here.

Home Remedy Tips for Hair Loss

Here are some home remedy tips for treating hair loss:

1. Massage the scalp with 2-3 drops of essential oil or a good vegetable oil. Massage well into the scalp so that the oil gets into deep roots of hair. Wrap the hair in plastic wrap and place a warm towel around it. Leave it for 2 to three hours or overnight. Shampoo the hair with a mild shampoo. Practicing this at regular basis would help your hair pores get rejuvenated.
2. Eat a handful of white sesame seeds every morning. One handful of these small seeds contains about 1,200 mg. of calcium and magnesium to ignite the required nourishments of your scalp not to loose hair.
3. Take some yogurt everyday (unless you are allergic to milk).
4. Rinse hair with a mix of apple cider vinegar tea to help hair grow.
5. Mix little warmer castor and almond oil and massage over scalp at least once a week.
6. Grind lime seeds and black pepper in equal number in some water and apply on the scalp at regular intervals.
7. Scrub the bald portion with onions till it becomes red. Then applying honey, scrub the scalp once a day.
8. Massage almond oil on scalp 2 to 3 times a day. Further hair loss will stop by doing this practice.
9. Massage coconut milk or Aloe Vera gel into the scalp and hair. Leave it for ½ hour, and then rinse with warm water. Repeat 3 times a week.
10. Massage honey with egg yolk into the scalp and hair. Leave for a 1/2 hour, then rinse to prevent hair loss.

More information can be found here.


I wonder if it works.  Well, gotta give it a try to know...