Symptom family: Hair Conditions

What is Dry Hair?

Dry hair, often described as dull and brittle hair, is a common concern affecting many individuals. It's characterized by hair that lacks moisture, leading to a lackluster appearance and increased vulnerability to damage.

Symptoms may also include a dry scalp and hair that feels coarse to the touch. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dry hair is seen as a reflection of internal imbalances within the body, and its treatment is rooted in the principles of restoring harmony.

How does TCM view Dry Hair?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dry hair is seen as a symptom of internal imbalances known as patterns. These patterns represent unique disharmonies within the body. TCM emphasizes identifying the specific pattern behind dry hair in each individual before determining treatment.

This holistic approach addresses the root causes of dry hair, such as Blood Deficiency or Yin Deficiency, ensuring not only hair health but overall well-being.

Root Causes of Dry Hair in TCM

Dry hair in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) often results from internal imbalances affecting overall harmony. One primary cause is Blood Deficiency, marked by dry hair, dizziness, scanty menstruation, and poor memory.

Yin Deficiency, involving the Kidneys, Liver, or both, is another significant cause. Symptoms like dizziness, tinnitus, lower back pain, and dry hair can indicate this pattern. Understanding these patterns guides TCM in selecting formulas and herbs, offering a holistic approach to manage dry hair and enhance overall well-being.

Explore below more details about what might cause Dry hair according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Limb Numbness Skin Dryness Withered And Brittle Nails Pale Lips Scanty Menstruation Blurry Vision

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency Dry hair, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | Ba Zhen Tang | Guo Qi Yin | Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia... see more Si Wu Tang | Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Si Wu Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Blurry Vision Skin Dryness Night Sweats Scanty Menstruation Diabetes Menopausal Symptoms

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Liver Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang
Kidney Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Yin | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency Dry hair, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | Ba Zhen Tang | Guo Qi Yin | Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Limb Numbness Blurry Vision Skin Dryness Withered And Brittle Nails Scanty Menstruation Amenorrhea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Si Wu Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Liver Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Hearing Loss Lower Back Pain Insomnia Blurry Vision Dry Throat Skin Dryness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Kidney Yin Deficiency Dry hair, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Yin | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Hair

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Dry hair, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Dry Hair

TCM practitioners often recommend tailored formulas and herbs to address the root causes of this condition.

For example, in cases of Blood Deficiency, formulas like Si Wu Tang (Four Substances Decoction) with key herbs like Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) are used to tonify Blood. When there's Yin Deficiency, Zuo Gui Wan (Restore the Left Kidney Pill) with Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi) is prescribed to nourish Yin.

These formulas aim not only to improve hair quality but also to enhance overall well-being by restoring harmony to the body. It's important to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address dry hair, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that sedate and calm the mind
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that clear liver-Heat
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that expel parasites

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Hair Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency, Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Blood Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Guo Qi Yin Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang Blood Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Liver Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Hair Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qing Gu San Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney Yin Deficiency
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin Kidney Yin Deficiency
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Kidney Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Hair Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Guo Qi Yin Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Hair Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for dry hair

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Wu Tang Blood Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang Blood Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin Kidney Yin Deficiency
Guo Qi Yin Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for dry hair

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify qi and blood" recommended for dry hair

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency, Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency, Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency... see more
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for dry hair

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Liver Blood Deficiency

TCM Herbs for Dry Hair

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address dry hair, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
  • Herbs that cool the blood
  • Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
  • Herbs that expel parasites
  • Herbs that nourish the heart and calm the spirit

"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for dry hair

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Stellaria Roots (Yin Chai Hu) Qing Gu San
Mudan Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi) Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San

"Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit" recommended for dry hair

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Mother Of Pearl (Zhen Zhu Mu) Zhen Zhu Mu Wan
Dragon Bones (Long Gu) Zhen Zhu Mu Wan

"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for dry hair

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Elm Seed Cakes (Wu Yi) Bu Dai Wan
Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi) Bu Dai Wan