Biota Leaf and Vodka Scalp Tonic

Why people make this tonic

Years ago, Bro Niu came across a classic formula for a hair-growth tincture during his Chinese herbal medicine studies. The original recipe used biota (bian bai) alongside several other herbs and was steeped in baijiu spirit — the result was effective in theory but rather pungent, and the oily components of some herbs left hair greasy and unpleasant. Over time, Bro Niu refined and simplified the approach. He first tried steeping biota alone in whisky for friends and family, and found the results genuinely encouraging. Today he recommends vodka as the base: its high, clean alcohol content (typically 40% or above) means it evaporates quickly from the scalp without leaving any odour, while also providing an antiseptic effect. The botanical compounds in biota are drawn into the alcohol and, when massaged into the scalp, are traditionally said to penetrate the hair follicles and stimulate growth.

Who it suits / who should be cautious

• Suitable for adults experiencing gradual hair thinning, post-partum hair loss, or age-related hair loss
• For external use on the scalp only — keep away from eyes
• Do not use on broken or irritated scalp skin
• Keep out of reach of children
• Those with alcohol sensitivity should do a small patch test before full application

Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)

• Biota leaves and branches (bian bai): Used in Chinese traditional medicine both internally (as a cooling hemostatic herb) and externally in hair tonics. Classically associated with cooling the scalp, reducing inflammation of the hair root, and promoting circulation to the follicles
• Vodka (high-proof alcohol): Acts as an efficient solvent to extract the active compounds from the plant material; also has inherent antiseptic properties. Its neutral odour is a key practical advantage over wine-based spirits

Ingredients (1 bottle)

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Biota branches (bian bai)	2 large sprigs	Available at flower shops; use the whole sprig including leaves, small twigs, and any seeds
Vodka	1 bottle (~700 ml)	40% alcohol minimum; whisky at 40%+ also works
Clean glass jar	1	Sterilised; must be airtight

Method

1. Rinse the biota sprigs under running water to remove dust and debris.
2. Hang the sprigs upside-down in a well-ventilated spot overnight to air-dry thoroughly.
3. Once dry, use scissors to cut or break the sprigs into smaller pieces that fit into your glass jar.
4. Place all the biota pieces into the clean jar.
5. Pour the entire bottle of vodka over the plant material, ensuring it is fully submerged.
6. Seal the jar and leave to steep at room temperature for at least 7 days.
7. After one week, the tonic is ready to use. Apply to the scalp morning and evening, massage gently for a few minutes, and allow to dry naturally.

Bro Niu’s tips

Biota is readily available at flower markets and garden shops — buy the whole plant with leaves, stems, and seeds intact, as the full plant is used. The alcohol content matters: aim for 40% or above, whether using vodka or whisky. The higher the alcohol, the more effectively it extracts the plant compounds and the faster it evaporates from the scalp after application. Unlike older folk formulas that used multiple herbs with strong odours, this simplified version is practical and odour-free — which makes it much easier to maintain as a daily habit.

Community questions answered (selected)

• Q (Tsz): I had blood in my urine starting 10 days after giving birth, with no bacteria found; doctors say it is interstitial cystitis. I urinate very frequently. Is there a soup that might help? Bro Niu: There is a possibility it could be related to a bladder stone, though not necessarily. Try a soup of fresh cogon grass root (mao gen), lotus root node, and fresh corn silk — simmer 5 bowls of water down to 2 bowls and drink. Take 3 doses and see if it improves. The aim is to increase urinary flow, not to restrict it.

• Q (kerry123): I have had a tickly, dry cough for a week, mainly in the evening. No other symptoms. Any food-therapy suggestion? Bro Niu: Try simmering a quarter of a golden luo han guo with 3–4 sliced dried figs in 4 bowls of water until reduced to 2 bowls. Drink warm. This helps moisten and soothe the throat and airways.

---

Published November 30, 2021 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.