What Are the Treatments for Premature Graying of Hair?
May 15, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Premature graying of hair can be improved through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). If it is caused by kidney deficiency, formulas such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Rehmannia Six Formula), Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena and Phellodendron with Rehmannia Six Formula), or Jin Kui Shen Qi Wan (Jin Kui Kidney Qi Pill) may be prescribed. Additionally, incorporating kidney-nourishing foods into the diet—such as black sesame seeds, black beans, and goji berries—is recommended. If premature graying results from blood heat, herbal remedies including raw rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang), red peony root (Chi Shao), tree peony bark (Dan Pi), dandelion (Pu Gong Ying), and poria (Fu Ling) may be administered under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner.
In today’s society, many adolescents experience premature graying of hair—a condition that not only affects their psychological well-being but also impacts their work, daily life, and studies. So, what are the treatment options for premature graying in young people?
What Are the Treatment Options for Premature Graying in Young People?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers effective approaches to improve premature graying. If the condition stems from kidney deficiency, herbal formulas such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Rehmannia Six Formula), Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena and Phellodendron with Rehmannia Six Formula), or Jin Kui Shen Qi Wan (Jin Kui Kidney Qi Pill) may be prescribed. Additionally, incorporating kidney-nourishing foods into the diet—such as black sesame seeds, black beans, and goji berries—is recommended. If premature graying is caused by blood heat, a TCM practitioner may prescribe herbs including raw Rehmannia root (Sheng Di Huang), red peony root (Chi Shao), tree peony bark (Mu Dan Pi), unopened pagoda tree flowers (Huai Hua), dandelion (Pu Gong Ying), and poria (Fu Ling). Regular consumption of hair-darkening foods—such as Fo-ti (He Shou Wu)—is also beneficial.
Hair color is determined by the quantity of pigment granules within the hair shaft. Hair turns gray when melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells in hair follicles—lose functionality and fail to generate sufficient pigment to maintain natural hair color. In healthy individuals, melanocyte activity typically begins declining around age 35; however, some individuals develop gray hair as early as their teens—a condition medically termed “premature canities.” Contributing factors may include excessive academic or life stress, blood heat, kidney qi deficiency, or genetic predisposition.
Maintaining regular sleep patterns, minimizing stress, cultivating a positive mood, and consuming ample fresh fruits and vegetables—as well as foods rich in vitamins and protein—can help nourish the body and support overall health. We hope this information proves helpful!
