A traditional Chinese medicine, Polygonum multiflorum, is showing promise as a potential treatment for hair loss, according to a recent scientific review. The plant, used for centuries to promote hair growth, is attracting attention as a gentler alternative to common treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, which can carry unwanted side effects.
Researchers have found that Polygonum multiflorum appears to impact multiple biological processes involved in hair growth and can potentially slow down hair loss. Unlike many standard treatments that target a single pathway, this herb seems to work on several simultaneously. The review suggests it can reduce the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage, while also protecting hair follicle cells from premature cell death.
The findings come as the search for effective hair loss treatments continues. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss, affects millions globally. While existing medications are widely used, many patients seek holistic approaches due to concerns about long-term use and adverse reactions.
Recent research also highlights the complex biological factors involved in hair loss. A study published in late January 2026 indicated a connection between severe alopecia areata and systemic inflammation. Researchers found that patients with significant hair loss exhibited elevated levels of inflammatory markers, which decreased alongside hair regrowth during treatment with JAK inhibitors. A new oral medication, deuruxolitinib, a JAK-inhibitor, demonstrated significant improvements in hair growth in a Phase 3 study, with up to 38 percent of patients achieving near-complete scalp coverage after 24 weeks, compared to less than 1 percent in the placebo group.
Separately, scientists in Taiwan have discovered a potential method to stimulate hair regrowth by activating fat cells in the skin. In tests on mice, activating these cells led to hair regrowth within 20 days, offering a possible alternative to surgical interventions or medications. The research suggests that activating these cells triggers a restorative response to skin injuries or irritation, prompting hair regrowth.
