The concept of blood in Donguibogam aligns closely with modern medicine's understanding of blood circulation and nutrient supply. The blood in our vessels is not a simple fluid, but a carrier of numerous components essential for sustaining life. Erythrocytes in blood transport oxygen throughout the body via hemoglobin, leukocytes manage immunity, and platelets attend to hemostasis. Blood also delivers diverse nutrients and hormones to cells everywhere.
In particular, hair is among the fastest-growing tissues in our body, second only to nails. Because hair follicle cells constantly divide and grow, they require substantial amounts of energy, nutrients, and oxygen. If blood circulation is impaired or the quality of the blood itself declines, hair follicle cells cannot receive the nourishment they need. Just as plants wither when deprived of sufficient water and sunlight, hair follicle cells struggle to function normally when undernourished.
One common cause is iron deficiency anemia. Iron is a core building block of hemoglobin; when iron is deficient, hemoglobin cannot be produced adequately, and erythrocytes cannot carry oxygen effectively. The entire body enters a state of hypoxia. At this point, the body prioritizes sending oxygen to vital organs essential for survival, such as the heart and brain. Consequently, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, considered less urgent, inevitably drops. This shortens the hair growth cycle, causes hair to thin, and in more severe cases leads to telogen effluvium.
Beyond alopecia, anemia causes a range of symptoms. When oxygen delivery to the brain decreases, dizziness and headache can occur, and when oxygen is deficient in muscle tissue, chronic fatigue and lethargy often follow. Without adequate nutrients and oxygen, the skin loses its healthy color, appearing pale or dull. Nails may break easily or develop koilonychia, curving inward like a spoon. All of these symptoms serve as warning signs of compromised blood circulation and nutritional status.
This is not limited to iron deficiency alone. Similar symptoms can arise when other nutrients vital for hair health and blood production—such as vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin C, protein, and zinc—are lacking. In addition, endocrine diseases such as thyroid gland dysfunction or chronic stress can impair circulation and nutrient absorption, contributing to alopecia. The stress hormone cortisol can also interfere with iron absorption and directly affect hair follicles.
Ultimately, the value placed on blood in Donguibogam corresponds directly with modern medicine's emphasis on normal blood composition and healthy blood circulation. Healthy blood optimizes overall function and brings vitality to all cells and tissues, including hair. Therefore, when symptoms of alopecia or anemia appear, a fundamental approach is needed to assess whole-body health, replenish necessary nutrients, and improve blood circulation rather than treating it merely as a superficial concern. Alongside a clear diagnosis, daily habits that gently support the body remain essential.
