Apigenin is a bioflavonoid commonly associated with chamomile flowers but can also be found in other foods like parsley and celery.
It can be taken in a concentrated dietary supplement for relaxation, sleep, and antioxidant support, but it may have other promising benefits, too.
Researchers looked into how apigenin might help with hair growth by looking at a protein called TGF-beta-1, which is linked to hair loss in androgenic alopecia (AGA) — a common type of hair thinning.
They created a test to measure TGF-beta-1 activity in skin cells, exposed the cells to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked with hair loss, and tested whether apigenin would be effective against hair thinning.
The results?
Apigenin lowered TGF-beta-1 and helped the skin and hair follicles grow faster. When the scientists tested this on rat hair follicles, they found that apigenin made hair follicles grow longer, suggesting it could stimulate hair growth [1].
These are really promising results on the potential benefits of apigenin for hair loss, but research has yet to be conducted in humans, so we'll have to wait and see.
Benefits of Apigenin for Hair
We're not saying that apigenin supplements will prevent hair loss or even give you amazing results in hair growth because they're not FDA-approved for that purpose. However, there is research that suggests apigenin may play a role in supporting scalp and follicle health by helping to maintain normal hair growth cycles:
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Supports Scalp Health: As an antioxidant, apigenin may help protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, which can impact scalp and hair health.
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Maintains Normal Hair Growth Cycles: Research suggests apigenin may influence TGF-beta-1, a protein involved in the hair growth cycle, which, in theory, could help maintain normal follicle function.
That said, hair growth is complex and influenced by genetics, hormones, nutrition, and overall health. Apigenin isn't a treatment for hair loss, but finding ways to add the flavonoid into a balanced lifestyle shouldn't hurt your efforts for hair growth.
Does Apigenin Cause Hair Loss?
No, apigenin doesn't cause hair loss. Some early research suggests that apigenin may support hair health by influencing certain cellular pathways involved in the hair growth cycle.
Studies indicate that apigenin may help regulate normal levels of TGF-beta-1, a protein linked to hair follicle activity. High levels of TGF-beta1 are associated with hair follicle shrinkage in androgenetic alopecia. In cell and animal studies, researchers found that apigenin may help lower TGF-beta-1 levels, potentially supporting a healthy hair cycle.
It's also worth noting that hair loss can have many causes, and apigenin isn't a drug approved to treat hair loss. More research is needed to understand its full effects on hair health. If you're experiencing hair thinning, it's best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.
Does Apigenin Promote Hair Growth?
Formal human studies on apigenin for hair haven't been well established. However, some people still incorporate apigenin into their routine to feel healthier, more relaxed, and more optimistic about their hair care efforts.
There are a lot of complexities around the reasons for hair loss, and apigenin shouldn't be considered a treatment. That being said, it does have benefits towards relaxation, sleep, and antioxidant health — so many people find it's still worth adding to their evening routine. If they happen to notice a change in their hair health, it's a bonus.
Resources:
- Huh, S., Lee, J., Jung, E., Kim, S. C., Kang, J. I., Lee, J., ... & Park, D. (2009). A cell-based system for screening hair growth-promoting agents. Archives of dermatological research, 301, 381-385.
