I am encountering patients who are coming to the student clinic who want to focus on aging gracefully. I admire patients who are serious about their health and wellness. Most patients not only want to feel good they want to look good as well. Personally, I like to use Plum Blossom on those patients who have thinning hair in certain spots. It is not a good idea to use this modality if the patient is thinning all over. The clinic has the herbal patent or granules called He Shou Wu (Foti Hair) which is often used for patients dealing with hair loss.

Plum Blossom is a small handheld instrument with small needles located at the end. I tap the patients scalp in the areas where thinning is noticeable. The primary purpose for using Plum Blossom for hair loss or thinning is to stimulate blood circulation and Qi to the area in hopes of promoting hair growth. I have taking pictures of one patient who has been undergoing this modality for a while. We will take pictures again toward the end of the trimester.

An herb that is often used for thinning or hair loss is He Shou Wu (Foti Hair). Although it is carried in the clinic it can also be bought online. I do not suggest purchasing herbs or herbal formulas online without a recommendation from an acupuncturist who understands the actions and mechanisms of Chinese herbs. He Shou Wu tonifies the liver and kidneys and nourishes the blood and Jing. There are some contraindications, this is why it is important for patients who are experiencing hair loss to consult with an acupuncturist who is an herbalist before taking this supplement. Some research suggest that this herb may cause liver damage. He Shou Wu is also used as an ingredient in some shampoos and conditioners. Some patients often have researched this herb before they come and are intrigued with the before and often photos they have seen online. I must determine what is causing the hair loss before deciding on a treatment plan.

Americans are living longer and want to feel great about their health and physical well-being. Some practitioners may feel like this is not a necessary chief compliant, but I do. I enjoy seeing their enthusiasm when there is a possibility to help using Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, I am all for it!

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