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Graying hair is often seen as an unavoidable sign of aging. However, new research from Nagoya University in Japan has discovered that a common antioxidant, luteolin, may have the potential to delay or even prevent this process.
Led by researchers Masashi Kato and Takumi Kagawa, the study focused on the effects of luteolin, an antioxidant found in vegetables like celery, broccoli, carrots, onions, and peppers. The findings suggest that luteolin could be a game-changer in the battle against gray hair.
The team examined three antioxidants—luteolin, hesperetin, and diosmetin—on mice genetically predisposed to gray hair. The results were striking: the mice that received luteolin treatments retained their black fur, while their counterparts’ fur turned gray. Interestingly, the results were the same whether luteolin was administered externally or internally.
Professor Kato commented on the surprising discovery: “While we expected antioxidants to have some impact on graying, only luteolin showed significant effects. This suggests luteolin may possess a unique ability to prevent hair graying.”
The key to luteolin’s effectiveness lies in its interaction with endothelins, proteins involved in cellular communication. Luteolin helped preserve the expression of endothelins and their receptors, maintaining healthy melanocyte activity, the cells responsible for hair pigmentation. This preservation of cellular signaling pathways helps prevent the graying process.
Though luteolin appeared to have little impact on hair cycles, its primary effect was on pigmentation rather than growth or shedding. This makes it a promising candidate for tackling age-related hair graying without disrupting other aspects of hair health.
The findings show great potential for future human applications. Luteolin is already available as a supplement for both topical and oral use, suggesting that it could soon play a role in hair care products aimed at preserving natural hair color. Additionally, Dr. Kagawa envisions luteolin’s potential beyond just hair graying, exploring whether its anti-aging properties could extend to other age-related changes, such as balding.
As research continues, luteolin may become a key ingredient in the future of age-related hair care.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on recent research and findings in animal models. Further studies in humans are needed to confirm the effectiveness of luteolin in preventing hair graying in people. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any new supplement or treatment.
More Information: Machiko Iida et al, “Anti-Graying Effects of External and Internal Treatments with Luteolin on Hair in Model Mice,” Antioxidants (2024). DOI: 10.3390/antiox13121549
