Researchers found a cure for baldness in a thousand-year-old plant. It prevents the death of hair follicle cells

[Teknoloji Muhabiri]

The plant called He Shou Wu, used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, is back on the agenda with new scientific findings suggesting it can simultaneously target the fundamental biological mechanisms of hair loss.

"Androgenetic alopecia" (also known as male pattern baldness), the most common type of hair loss, affects millions of people worldwide.

Although often associated with aging, this condition is increasingly appearing at younger ages and affects both men and women. Characterized by a receding hairline at the temples, thinning on the crown and forehead, oily scalp, dandruff, itching, and follicular inflammation, the condition can lead to significant baldness if not intervened early.

Treatment options are limited. The two most commonly used drugs are treatments with the active ingredients "finasteride" and "minoxidil." Minoxidil stimulates hair follicle cells by converting into its active form on the scalp, while finasteride prevents testosterone from converting into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which shrinks hair follicles.

However, the need for more effective treatments without side effects continues.

REDISCOVERY OF AN ANCIENT PLANT

A new review published in the scientific journal Journal of Holistic Integrative Pharmacy points to a remarkable candidate: Polygonum multiflorum. This root plant, known as "He Shou Wu" in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for over a thousand years. Described in ancient texts as a plant that "darkens hair and nourishes essence," He Shou Wu is now seen to possess biological effects that support these claims through modern scientific research.

The study's first author, Bixian Han, says, "We combined ancient wisdom with modern science. We found that the effects described in texts from the Tang Dynasty onwards surprisingly align with what we know about hair biology today. This is not folklore; it's pharmacology."

FROM HORMONES TO CELL LIFE

According to research, He Shou Wu, unlike existing drugs that focus on a single mechanism, simultaneously affects many biological processes that lead to hair loss.

In laboratory and animal studies, processed root extracts of the plant were shown to strongly inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme responsible for DHT production. Components such as emodin and physcion were found to reduce DHT levels in skin tissue and decrease androgen activity associated with hair follicle miniaturization.

The plant also protects hair follicle cells from premature cell death (apoptosis). While the growth phase of hair shortens during male pattern baldness, TSG, an important component of He Shou Wu, activates PI3K/Akt pathways that support cell life; it increases protective proteins while suppressing signals that trigger cell death. This contributes to the prolongation of the hair's growth phase.

SIGNALS TRIGGERING HAIR REGENERATION

The review provides strong evidence that He Shou Wu also activates the Wnt/β-catenin and Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathways, which are critical for hair regeneration. In animal experiments, topical applications of the plant were observed to bring "dormant" hair follicles back into the growth phase, increasing β-catenin and Shh levels in the scalp. Disruption of these signals is known to be one of the distinguishing features of male pattern baldness.

In addition, the plant increases growth factors such as IGF-1, VEGF, and FGF-7, which support hair follicle growth and vascular formation, while reducing inhibitory signals such as TGF-β and Dkk-1, which force hair follicles into regression. This dual effect helps restore the necessary balance for healthy hair production.

SCALP BLOOD CIRCULATION IS STRENGTHENED

Blood circulation, another factor often overlooked in hair health, is also within He Shou Wu's sphere of influence. Research shows that the plant improves microcirculation in the scalp, creating a more favorable environment for hair follicles by increasing oxygen and nutrient transport.

He Shou Wu, used for over a thousand years, is today among the key ingredients in many medical formulations and approved cosmetic products for hair loss in China.

IS IT SAFE?

Experts emphasize that the plant is generally considered safe when processed correctly using traditional methods, but incorrect preparation or overdoses have rarely been associated with liver damage. Therefore, standardized production, correct dosage, and modern application methods are stated to be critically important.

While extensive clinical studies are noted as necessary, according to researchers, He Shou Wu could be a strong example for next-generation approaches that go beyond single-target drugs in hair loss treatment.