Biota Leaf and Vodka Scalp Tonic

Why people make this tonic

Years ago, Nourilo 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, Nourilo 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.

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.

Nourilo’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.