Menopause and Hair Loss: Can Chinese Herbal Medicine Help?
Hair loss during menopause can be one of the more unexpected and emotionally challenging changes women face. As oestrogen levels decline, many women notice their hair becoming thinner, falling out more easily, and growing back more slowly. While this can feel distressing, there are supportive and holistic approaches that can help.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), menopausal hair loss is often linked to Kidney Qi Deficiency and Blood Deficiency. Both the Kidney and Liver systems are involved when it comes to hair, but with different roles. Let's take a look:
Understanding Hair Loss in TCM
✅ Hair is governed by the Kidneys
In the classic text, Chapter 10 of the Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic), “The Kidneys produce marrow and the marrow nourishes the brain. The state of the Kidneys is reflected in the hair.” This implies that healthy, vibrant hair depends on strong Kidney Essence (Jing)—especially as people age, since Jing naturally declines over time.
✅ Hair is nourished by Blood, which is stored in the Liver
While the Kidneys “govern” the hair, the Liver plays a supporting role by storing Blood.
Chapter 9 of the Huang Di Nei Jing (Su Wen), ALSO teaches that “Blood (is the spirit and Qi...) its flourishing is seen in the hair.”—a reflection of the idea that hair relies on rich, nourishing Blood and Essence to stay healthy and vibrant.
Since Blood nourishes the hair, a Liver Blood deficiency can also be a treatment strategy to thinning, dryness, or hair loss.
So, in summary:
Kidney Essence provides the foundation for hair growth and health (especially over time and with ageing).
Liver Blood nourishes the hair, ensuring it stays shiny, full, and rooted.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Hair Health
Chinese Herbal Medicine offers a time-tested way to support the body from within. Herbs like:
He Shou Wu (Polygonum Multiflorum) – traditionally used to nourish Liver and Kidney, tonify Blood, and support hair pigmentation and growth. Modern studies suggest it may help prolong the hair’s growth phase.
Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) – known for its powerful blood-nourishing properties and ability to support women’s hormonal balance.
Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berry) – supports Liver and Kidney Yin and is rich in antioxidants.
Classic formulas are often prescribed to help restore balance and replenish the body’s reserves. These formulas aim to nourish the Blood, replenish Kidney Essence, and support Liver function—the key pillars of strong, healthy hair in TCM.
A 2016 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the potential for Chinese herbs to promote hair growth by improving microcirculation in the scalp and reducing oxidative stress, both of which play a role in hair health.
Taking a step forward with Menopause and Hair Loss
When the body lacks sufficient Qi, Blood, or Kidney Essence, the hair may become dry, brittle, or fall out more easily. This is why nourishing and strengthening these systems is key in supporting healthy hair during midlife.
In addition to herbs, an experienced practitioner may recommend dietary and lifestyle strategies to support hair health—such as warm, blood-building foods, rest, and stress reduction. Acupuncture can also enhance circulation to the scalp and regulate hormonal imbalances that may contribute to hair thinning.
If you're navigating hair loss during or after menopause, know that there are gentle, natural ways to support your body. A qualified TCM practitioner can tailor treatment to your unique constitution and help address the root cause—not just the symptoms—of hair loss.
Looking for a holistic approach to support healthy hair during menopause? Book a consultation at our Northern Beaches clinic to explore how Chinese Herbal Medicine and acupuncture can support you.
