Kidney Health: Myths and Facts About Hair Loss - Traditional Chinese Medicine

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About the kidneys!


Doctor, I have some questions! First: I've heard that excessive indulgence can lead to kidney deficiency? (A high school student indulging once every 1-2 days) Second: I've also heard that kidney deficiency can cause hair loss and baldness? Third: If hair loss is due to kidney deficiency, will it grow back? Fourth: Does staying up late contribute to kidney deficiency? Fifth: Does excessive liver heat cause hair loss? And will it grow back?

Wenqiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/12

Dr. Ding Hanxiang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine


Hello: The kidneys are one of the five organs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and the physiological characteristic of the five organs is to store rather than to excrete.
Overuse can lead to damage to the organ.
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss, including deficiency of qi and blood, liver and kidney deficiency, and damp-heat, all of which can lead to hair loss.
Once the deficiencies are addressed and the body's functions can return to normal, the lost hair should be able to regrow.
The period from 11 PM to 3 AM is the time when the gallbladder and liver meridians are active, and TCM believes that the liver and kidneys are interconnected.
Therefore, prolonged staying up late, if the body cannot compensate and recover, can lead to kidney deficiency.
If the liver fire is reduced without causing damage to other organs or deficiencies in qi and blood, regrowth should be possible.
Wishing you health and happiness.
Sincerely, Dr.
Ding Han-Hsiang, Attending Physician, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2007/09/12

More Info


When it comes to understanding the relationship between kidney health and hair loss, there are several myths and facts that need to be clarified. Let's address your questions one by one, while also providing a broader context about hair loss, kidney health, and other contributing factors.

1. Does excessive sexual activity lead to kidney deficiency?
The belief that frequent sexual activity can lead to kidney deficiency is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and other holistic health philosophies. However, from a modern medical perspective, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Healthy sexual activity, when consensual and safe, does not inherently cause harm to kidney function. It is essential to focus on overall health and well-being rather than attributing specific health issues to sexual behavior.

2. Can kidney deficiency cause hair loss or baldness?
The idea that kidney deficiency leads to hair loss is another concept found in traditional medicine. In modern medicine, hair loss can be attributed to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and stress. While kidney health is crucial for overall bodily function, there is no direct link established between kidney deficiency and hair loss in scientific literature. Hair loss conditions like androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) are primarily influenced by genetic predisposition and hormonal levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

3. If hair loss is due to kidney deficiency, will it grow back?
If hair loss were indeed linked to kidney health, addressing the underlying kidney issue could potentially lead to hair regrowth. However, since most hair loss is not directly related to kidney function, the regrowth of hair depends on the specific cause of the hair loss. For example, if the hair loss is due to stress or hormonal changes, managing those factors may help in regrowing hair. In cases of permanent hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, regrowth may not be possible without medical intervention.

4. Does staying up late cause kidney deficiency?
Staying up late and poor sleep hygiene can lead to various health issues, including fatigue, stress, and hormonal imbalances. While chronic sleep deprivation can affect overall health and may indirectly impact kidney function, it is not accurate to say that it directly causes kidney deficiency. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is essential for maintaining overall health, including kidney health.

5. Does excessive liver heat lead to hair loss?
In traditional Chinese medicine, "liver heat" is thought to contribute to various health issues, including hair loss. However, from a modern medical standpoint, hair loss is more commonly associated with hormonal changes, genetics, and nutritional deficiencies rather than liver function. If hair loss is occurring, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while traditional beliefs about kidney health and hair loss exist, modern medicine emphasizes a more nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to hair loss. If you are experiencing significant hair loss, it is crucial to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider who can evaluate your condition, consider your medical history, and recommend appropriate treatments. This may include lifestyle changes, nutritional support, or medical interventions tailored to your specific situation.

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