In an experimental study, the hairs grow back more rapidly after application of propolis.
Many virtues are attributed to propolis: it has antiviral and anti-fungal activity, which can prevent and treat respiratory infections, treat genital herpes, improve oral hygiene, oppose free radicals and advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) responsible for accelerating aging and it would even be effective for boosting hair growth! This is suggested by a new Japanese study among mice and published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Propolis is a resin which is used to cover all the interior surfaces of the hive in order to ensure its watertightness and solidity. The propolis is secreted by the buds of certain trees. The bees collect the propolis by collecting it on their hind legs and bringing it back to the hive. The propolis contains more than 300 active identified molecules. By extraction, the beekeeper can obtain pure propolis composed of 100% of active molecules of pharmacological interest such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, essential oils and some other potent organic compounds (fatty acids, sugars …).
Propolis is effective against bacteria, viruses. The flavonoids it contains allow it to be effective against the flu virus. Propolis is often used to treat wounds and to accelerate the healing of canker sores and genital herpes. Taken in the form of a mouthwash, it can also help soothe after oral surgery. Propolis is also used in the treatments of dermatological ailments, such as burns and acne for example. It’s also active against candidiasis.
A previous study showed that propolis could promote the multiplication of cells contributing to hair growth. In this new study, the researchers wanted to know if the propolis could promote the appearance of new hair strands. They used mice which they shaved or depilateded on their backs. The researchers then applied propolis on the skin of some mice.
The results show the hairs of the mice that received propolis were repelled faster than those of the mice which did not receive propolis. The number of cells involved in hair growth increased after the application of propolis. Therefore, propolis stimulates hair growth by inducing the proliferation of keratinocyte.
The researchers tested the propolis on mice for which a hair which grew back was possible, unlike a “bald” mouse. However, scientists point out that hair loss is often the result of inflammation. However, since propolis has anti-inflammatory properties, researchers expect it can also help to treat baldness.
This is a study which could give hope to all men and women who lose their hair even if additional studies are needed to confirm the hypothesis of the researchers.
Reference
Miyata S, Oda Y, Matsuo C, Kumura H, Kobayashi K. Stimulatory Effect of Brazilian propolis on Hair Growth through Proliferation of Keratinocytes in Mice. I Agric Food Chem. 2014 Dec 10; 62 (49): 11854-61. DOI: 10.1021/jf503184s. Epub 2014 Nov 26.
