Can patients with alopecia areata take Huai Sh熟地黄 (steamed rehmannia root)?
Apr 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
When the etiology of alopecia areata is related to insufficient liver and kidney function or deficiency of qi and blood, moderate consumption of cooked rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) may be beneficial. Shu Di Huang has functions of nourishing yin, enriching blood, and replenishing essence and marrow, which can help improve hair thinning or loss caused by insufficiency of essence and blood. However, caution should be exercised regarding the dosage to avoid excessive intake that may cause stomach discomfort, indigestion, or other adverse symptoms.
Prepared rehmannia root (Sh熟地黄) is also known as Rehmannia glutinosa. Patients with alopecia areata may take an appropriate amount of prepared rehmannia root under medical guidance if they also suffer from liver and kidney deficiency or qi and blood deficiency. However, it is not recommended for individuals with excessive internal damp-heat or weak digestive function. If any abnormal reactions occur, timely medical consultation is advised. Detailed explanation is as follows:
When the cause of alopecia areata is related to liver and kidney deficiency or qi and blood insufficiency, moderate consumption of prepared rehmannia root may be beneficial. Prepared rehmannia root has functions of nourishing yin and blood, and enriching essence and marrow, which may help improve hair thinning or hair loss caused by deficiency of essence and blood. However, dosage should be controlled to avoid excessive greasiness that may impair digestion, leading to indigestion or other discomforts.
If alopecia areata is accompanied by internal accumulation of damp-heat or spleen and stomach weakness, prepared rehmannia root should not be consumed. Due to its greasy nature, prepared rehmannia root might exacerbate damp-heat symptoms, such as thick greasy tongue coating, oily scalp, or sticky stools. Moreover, blind consumption of prepared rehmannia root could aggravate internal damp-heat, thus being detrimental to hair growth.
At the same time, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive consumption of a single herb is important to prevent adverse effects on the body.
