In TCM, our kidneys play many vital functions and one important role is in our hair health. With ample nourishment from our kidney essence and blood, our hair will appear lustrous and thick. Without proper nourishment, our hair will appear dry and brittle, or suffer from thinning and premature graying.
Whether we are born with a weak constitution, or have overworked kidneys due to unhealthy lifestyle habits, we can strengthen and improve our kidney functions with acupuncture, Chinese herbs, as well as with the food we eat.
According to the five elements, black is the colour associated with the kidneys. Hence, most food associated with black, such as black fungus, black beans, black dates, and black sesame seeds, are all considered beneficial to kidney health.
Besides massaging the scalp to improve local circulation, some of the acupoints that we can stimulate to strengthen our kidneys are:
Tai Xi (太溪 KD 3): In the depression midway between the tip of the medial malleolus and the attachment of the achilles tendon. (The hollow point between your inner ankle and edge of the tendon adjacent to it)
Shen Shu (肾俞 UB 23): On the back, 1.5 cun lateral to lower border of the
spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebra L2, level to Ming Men (GV
4). (Approximately 2 fingers' width apart from the spine and 1 thumb above the iliac crest/top of hip bone)
Apart from our kidneys, our liver plays an important role in producing healthy locks as well. We can also stimulate our kidney and liver by massaging or gently hitting along the meridian lines with our fist.
Last but not least, having sufficient sleep and keeping our emotions in check are important factors that keep our hair healthy.
Modern lifestyles are causing people of a younger age to suffer from hair problems. As individual condition varies, do consult a TCM physician to assess and treat the underlying health-related issues.
Article By: Physician Jolyn Loh
Place of practice: Minka Healthcare
Graduated from NTU Double Degree in Biomedical Sciences and TCM, Jolyn has gained experiences in both clinical and managerial skills from multiple private practices. She is currently the Principal Physician at Minka Healthcare, and is well-liked by her patients for her attentiveness and detailed explanations.
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