Ancient Chinese hair-blackening herb may help treat balding naturally

A new study reviews polygoni multiflori radix (PMT), a traditional Chinese 'hair-blackening' root used for hair loss and early graying, and reports that historical records and modern studies describe effects consistent with hair biology.

Researchers reviewed traditional and modern sources on polygoni multiflori radix (PMT), a dried root tuber used in Chinese medicine for hair blackening and hair loss. The team examined historical medical records alongside contemporary studies to compare recorded effects with current biological understanding. Traditional Chinese Medicine links hair health to the liver and kidneys and describes patterns such as liver-kidney yin deficiency and blood heat with wind-dryness. The authors report that descriptions from historical texts are consistent with some findings in modern hair biology. Key points: - PMT, also called tuber fleeceflower, has a long history of use for hair loss and premature graying in Chinese medicine. - The researchers reviewed medical diaries dating back to the year 813 during the Tang Dynasty. - TCM concepts cited in the review link hair condition to liver and kidney function; PMT is described as tonifying those organs and improving blood and scalp condition. - Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is commonly treated today with finasteride and minoxidil; the article notes known side effects of those pharmaceuticals. - The study authors report that modern studies describe antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and circulation-related effects for PMT, and they state PMT may support hair regeneration and has a reported "more favorable safety profile" compared with some drugs. Summary: The review highlights PMT as a traditional remedy that historical records and some modern studies describe in ways that align with current understandings of hair biology. Undetermined at this time.