As with most things in life, as we get older, inevitable changes occur. One such change which can cause much dismay is noticing less hair on our heads. However, by turning to nature this dreaded age-old curse could be halted. Green tea has been praised for centuries for its numerous health benefits and could be the answer for preventing balding and helping to increase hair growth.
Green teas are well known for being rich in antioxidants with most of the antioxidants in green tea coming from compounds known as flavanols.
These flavanols are a type known as catechins.
The most abundant and powerful catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
However, it is not just its impressive reduction in serious health diseases which has garnered green tea’s interest but also its major benefits to one’s hair.
Green tea’s extracts are being used for many other purposes, such as preventing hair loss and improving hair health.
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What the studies said
In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine, human hair growth enhancement by green tea was further analysed.
“Green tea is a popular worldwide beverage, and its potential beneficial effects such as anti-cancer and antioxidant properties are believed to be mediated by epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of polyphenols,” noted the study.
It continued: “Recently, it was reported that EGCG might be useful in the prevention or treatment of androgenetic alopecia by selectively inhibiting 5alpha-reductase activity.”
“We suggest that EGCG stimulates human hair growth through these dual proliferative and anti-apoptotic effects on DPCs,” concluded the study.
How does EGCG increase hair growth?
During hair loss, the hair’s natural growth cycle changes.
The cycle includes three phases including androgen (hair growth), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (hair loss).
Two hormones, namely testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, can decrease the hair growth phase and increase hair loss.
Research has shown that EGCG can inhibit the effects of these hormones and slow hair loss.