There are many alternative treatments that hair loss sufferers may consider, but perhaps one of the most underrated is acupuncture. In this guide to acupuncture for hair loss, you’re going to learn if acupuncture really can help with thin, receding, and generally unhealthy hair. You’ll learn how acupuncture works and if there is any scientific evidence to that shows it can improve hair health. You’ll also learn about the different treatments available to you and what to expect, as well as any possible side effects that may come along with an acupuncture treatment.
But first, it’s important to understand what the treatment is.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice, and it has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of maladies, from insomnia to nausea to lower back pain.
Historically, acupuncture has been used in China as a well-respected treatment alongside other natural remedies, including herbs and massage. Only in recent times has acupuncture become a standalone treatment option for individuals suffering from any number of illnesses and diseases.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a natural, time-tested form of treatment for a number of medical conditions and disorders. Unsurprisingly, acupuncture has a wide range of benefits associated with it.
And even if you have a difficult time accepting the concept of the qi, you’ll be happy to know that acupuncture has been studied quite thoroughly.
Gastrointestinal Balance
While more recent research is warranted, acupuncture has been shown to treat a host of gastrointestinal issues and to promote gastrointestinal motility.
Mental Health Support
Research supports the use of acupuncture to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in pregnant woman. Further, evidence surrounding acupuncture for the treatment of depression and anxiety seems promising, though more research is required.
Muscle and Joint Pain Treatment
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects joints throughout the body. A literature review performed in 2006 showed that numerous studies have indicated the effective use of acupuncture in the management of osteoarthritis pain in the knee joint.
Pain and Tension Relief
Migraines and tension-type headaches (TTH) have been treated effectively for years with the use of acupuncture, and the same has also been seen in the treatment of jaw pain.
Can Acupuncture Help with Hair Loss?
As you can see, acupuncture is an effective treatment for a number of common health problems. But, what about the treatment of hair loss?
Good news for hair loss sufferers—acupuncture can be effectively used to treat hair loss! There are two main benefits that those with hair loss will see when undergoing acupuncture treatments.
First, acupuncture can reduce follicle inflammation and help to create a healthy environment in which hair can grow. Second, acupuncture can increase blood circulation to the scalp which will stimulate the hair follicles, deliver essential nutrients, and promote hair growth. You may know already that the production of DHT (which is believed to be the main cause of male-pattern baldness) leads to the miniaturization of the effected hair follicles. Now, while acupuncture may not put a stop to the production of DHT, it may help to revitalize the damaged hair follicles both due to the reduction in inflammation and the increase of blood flow and nutrient delivery.
