I think it encourages circulation in the scalp area. As far as fasting goes, I've only had mutiple 3-5 day fasts while on the TK, and I'm going to start my Summer fast in the next few days. I'll be going all out with sitzing, the chi machine and a bunch of other stuff. I also get my hair cut Thursday all I'll be taking it even shorter than it is, which is less than 1 inch, so I'll keep you updated. Besides my skin, at to even a greater extent, my hair changing color is the most visable tetimony to the cleansing/natural living (even though I am FAR from perfect yet) lifestyle. It makes people think when you start looking younger as you're getting older. Take care.