Veggie Antioxidant Fights Hair Greying

Research from Nagoya University in Japan suggests that a common antioxidant found in vegetables could help prevent hair from greying. The study, conducted by Masashi Kato and Takumi Kagawa, focused on luteolin, an antioxidant present in foods such as celery, broccoli, carrots, onions, and peppers.

In experiments, mice bred to exhibit age-related greying were given luteolin. These mice notably retained their black fur, contrasting with their cage mates who developed grey hair. This effect was observed regardless of whether luteolin was administered externally or internally.

The mechanism behind luteolin's anti-greying effect appears to be its ability to maintain endothelins, proteins crucial for cell-to-cell communication. By supporting these signaling pathways, luteolin helps prevent the decline in melanocyte function typically associated with hair greying.

Researchers noted that luteolin's impact is primarily on pigmentation rather than hair growth or shedding. The study's findings, published in late 2024, hold potential for human application, as luteolin is also available as a supplement. Further research may explore its anti-aging benefits beyond hair greying, potentially including balding.