The Benefits and Common Uses of Platycladus orientalis Leaves for Hair Growth and Darkening

Platycladus orientalis leaves are the dried branches and leaves of the cypress family plant Platycladus orientalis (Chinese arborvitae). In traditional Chinese medicine they are classified as a commonly used medicinal material for cooling the blood, stopping bleeding, promoting hair growth and darkening the hair. Folk custom has long popularized using Platycladus orientalis leaves boiled in water to wash the hair or steeped in liquor to rub on the scalp, in order to improve premature graying of the beard and hair and hair loss; it is one of the more widely circulated hair care methods. The Platycladus orientalis tree itself is cultivated in both northern and southern regions, so the material is fairly easy to obtain.

From the traditional understanding, Platycladus orientalis leaves are cold in nature and bitter and astringent in taste, and are believed to clear heat and cool the blood, dispel wind and dry dampness. Premature graying of hair and hair loss caused by excessive scalp oiliness are often related to blood heat and damp-heat of the scalp, so people with these conditions use Platycladus orientalis leaves for regulation more often. Modern research has also found that Platycladus orientalis leaves contain volatile oils, flavonoids and other components that are somewhat helpful for scalp health, but the actual effects vary from person to person and cannot be generalized.

There are roughly several common ways to use it: first, boil dried Platycladus orientalis leaves in water, let it cool to warm, then use it to wash the hair or soak the scalp; second, steep Platycladus orientalis leaves in baijiu liquor for a period of time, then take the medicinal liquid and apply it to the hair loss area and gently massage; third, boil Platycladus orientalis leaves together with mulberry leaves and other ingredients in water to wash the hair. Whichever method is chosen, it needs to be used consistently for a period of time before changes may be seen, and expecting results in a short time is unrealistic.

It should be noted that Platycladus orientalis leaves are an auxiliary conditioning measure and cannot replace proper treatment. If hair loss is relatively severe, or if the scalp has breaks, eczema or similar conditions, a doctor should be consulted first to avoid irritation that makes it worse. Before use, a small test can be done behind the ear or on the inner side of the arm to confirm there is no allergy before continuing. At the same time, combining it with a regular daily routine and a balanced diet will make hair care and protection more effective.