Ancient Chinese ‘hair blackening’ herb may fight balding naturally

People dealing with hair loss are increasingly frustrated with the slow results and potential side effects tied to the two medications most commonly prescribed for the condition.

New research suggests that an ancient remedy may offer a different path. The study focuses on polygoni multiflori radix (PMT), often called tuber fleeceflower, a dried root that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to address hair thinning and premature graying.

According to researchers, the plant has long been credited with a range of health benefits beyond hair growth. Its properties have been associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as potential support for heart and brain health and even anti-cancer activity.

To better understand how the herb has historically been used, the research team examined medical records dating back to 813 during China’s Tang Dynasty. Those writings describe how the root was prepared and administered, helping scientists compare ancient practices with modern research methods.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches health through the balance of yin and yang and the flow of qi. In that framework, hair health is believed to be closely tied to the liver and kidneys. TCM explanations for hair loss often involve conditions such as excessive heat in the blood combined with dryness, damp-heat affecting the digestive system, or deficiencies connected to the liver and kidneys.

PMT has traditionally been used to strengthen those organs, improve blood nourishment, and counteract so-called wind conditions in the body. Practitioners historically prescribed it to strengthen hair roots, slow early graying, and reduce hair loss.

Researchers noted that these traditional explanations resemble patterns seen in androgenic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss. They suggested that by improving blood circulation and scalp health, the herb may also help in cases linked to dryness and inflammation.

Androgenic alopecia affects tens of millions of Americans and remains the most widespread type of hair loss worldwide. Today, treatment usually involves one or both of two medications: finasteride and minoxidil.

Finasteride, commonly sold as Propecia, works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink. Minoxidil, available in both oral and topical forms, increases blood flow to hair follicles and can stimulate thicker hair growth over time.

Some social media discussions claim younger generations are experiencing hair loss earlier, attributing it to factors such as stress, heavy screen use, or mental health challenges. Current data does not clearly confirm that trend. However, market analyses show growing sales of minoxidil products, fueled partly by online prescription platforms like Hims and Hers and concerns about lifestyle factors such as stress, pollution, and diet.

Interest in alternatives has also grown because standard treatments can carry side effects. Reported issues include sexual dysfunction, mood changes, scalp irritation, and unwanted hair growth in other areas of the body.

Researchers say PMT may present a different approach. Instead of simply slowing hair loss, the herb is believed to work more broadly by supporting hormone regulation and improving circulation. The study indicates that it may offer a safer overall profile while also encouraging hair regeneration.

Bixian Han, one of the study’s lead authors, said the findings demonstrate how ancient medical knowledge can align with modern biological understanding.

Han noted that historical writings from as early as the Tang Dynasty described effects that closely match current insights into how hair growth works. Modern research, the team says, is beginning to show that those early observations reflect real pharmacological activity rather than folklore.

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