Chinese Thuja
The Chinese thuja, scientifically referred to as Thuja Orientalis, is a perennial shrub or small tree native to Asian regions like China, Korea, and Japan. Throughout the ages, people in East Asia have turned to extracts from this plant to address a range of health concerns, including hair loss, common colds, sores, arthritis, and infections. Both the seeds and leaves of the thuja plant can be used to extract essential oils, solidifying its enduring role in traditional and complementary medicine with a deep-rooted history.
In the context of hair loss, this plant enjoys popularity in Asia but remains relatively obscure in Europe and the USA.
Is it effective against hair loss?
Chinese Thuja, a widely popular plant in certain Asian countries, has been the subject of numerous research studies. To date, these studies have collectively provided us with a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of Chinese Thuja.
Regarding the composition of Chinese Thuja, its composition differs according to its extraction method:
Chinese Thuja Extract:
- Flavonoids (apigenin, quercetin, kaempferol)
- Terpenoids
- Steroids
- Volatile oils
Chinese Thuja Essential Oil:
- Monoterpenes (alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, bornyl acetate)
- Sesquiterpenes (delta-cadinene)
- Polyphenols
- Polysaccharides
- Coumarins
To understand the difference, it’s simple: the extract is obtained from the leaves and stems, and contains all the bioactive compounds present in the plant (flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, volatile oils).
The essential oil is specifically extracted by steam distillation of the leaves and stems. It contains mainly the volatile and aromatic compounds such as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.
Scientific studies: Chinese Thuja can prevent hair loss
Several scientific studies have been conducted on mice. Here are a few examples:
2013 Study: Chinese Thuja vs Minoxidil 1%
In a study conducted in 2013 by Nan-nan Zhang and colleagues, the hot water extract of Chinese Thuja (T. orientalis) was effective in promoting hair growth in mice.
Here are some results published by the study:
(source)
The effects are more visible here:
The study mentions that the topical application of Chinese Thuja induced a strong expression of proteins B-Catenin and Sonic hedgehog (Shh), which play significant roles in hair growth.
2016 Study: Cedrol extracted from chinese Thuja vs Minoxidil 2%
In a 2016 study, a component called cedrol extracted from Chinese Thuja was compared to 2% minoxidil in mice. The results were highly promising as cedrol outperformed the 2% minoxidil in promoting hair growth.
Here are some images from the study:
I believe that further research on cedrol is warranted, given these very encouraging results.
2017 Study: Chinese Thuja on sebum production and hair loss
In a 2017 study, Chinese Thuja extract demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing scalp sebum production and promoting hair growth in hamsters, while also accelerating the growth of skin cells.
The researchers also evaluated an oil combination (HGPEE) that included Chinese Thuja along with other oils, and it yielded similar results to the use of Chinese Thuja extract alone.
The accompanying images clearly depict the decrease in sebocytes, thus confirming the sebum-reduction properties of Chinese Thuja:
BOLE : chinese thuja extract ; HGPEE : oil blend containing Chinese Thuja
Traditionally, Chinese Thuja has been employed as a remedy for hair loss and skin conditions such as excessive sebum production. This study serves as a validation of its longstanding traditional use.
2019 and 2023 studies: Chinese Thuja increase dermal papilla cells multiplication and triggers Akt signaling pathway
Two studies from 2019 and 2023 have shown that Chinese Thuja extract has the potential to promote hair growth by enhancing the multiplication of dermal papilla cells.
The 2023 study goes a step further by revealing that Chinese Thuja impacts the Akt signaling pathway, subsequently triggering a series of other signaling pathways, such as Wnt/B-catenin, and the release of growth factors like IGF1.
This intricate system operates like a cascading process, but to put it succinctly, it promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss.
Chinese Thuja demonstrates anti-androgen properties
In addition to all the properties mentioned earlier, Chinese Thuja also possesses anti-androgenic properties.
In a 2016 study conducted by Bei Zhang and his team, Chinese Thuja was found to stimulate hair regrowth and inhibit the activity of the 5α-reductase enzyme in mice. These findings suggest the potential of Chinese Thuja in the treatment of testosterone and DHT-induced alopecia.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a natural androgenic hormone synthesized by our bodies from testosterone in various tissues. This conversion is mediated by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase (5aR).
DHT is a significant factor in androgenetic alopecia, as it plays a role in the inflammatory process occurring in the scalps of individuals genetically predisposed to hair loss. This process leads to the gradual thinning of hair, a phenomenon known as miniaturization. Therefore, reducing the formation of DHT is believed to potentially reduce hair loss.
Chinese Thuja has anti-inflammatory properties
In a 2004 study, Chinese Thuja extract showed anti-inflammatory properties by reducing the production of specific pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the extract displayed significant hair growth stimulation effects.
Inflammation is a defense mechanism of the immune system that is triggered when the body faces any form of attack, such as infection, irritation, muscle strain, or injury.
Interestingly, nearly all forms of alopecia are characterized by chronic inflammation in the scalp, and reducing this inflammation has been shown to be effective in reducing hair loss.
This suggests that Chinese Thuja extract could also be effective in reducing inflammation related alopecia like alopecia areata, although further research is needed to confirm this.
Closing thoughts and verdict
I believe that Chinese Thuja could be an excellent treatment for various types of hair loss, given the very promising findings from studies conducted on mice. It exhibits anti-androgenic, anti-inflammatory properties, and promotes hair growth.
While Chinese Thuja has a traditional use for hair loss, further human studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness definitively.
If you’re interested in trying it, you can opt for an extract or essential oil. It’s also worth noting that the observed effects may be linked to cedrol, which is a path worth exploring.
Precautions & side effects
- Skin Irritation: Topical applications may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
- Gastrointestinal distress: Ingesting Chinese Thuja can lead to stomach upset or nausea.