Strong hair with mushrooms: discover the power of mushrooms for lush hair

Hair: how to keep it healthy with mushrooms

The fungal kingdom represents a still largely unexplored frontier in the field of natural cosmetics and trichology, despite its immense potential. For centuries, traditional Eastern medicines have used varieties like Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake to promote general health, but only recently has Western science begun to validate their specific properties for hair care. In this article, we will dive into a comprehensive analysis of how these extraordinary organisms can positively influence the hair growth cycle, counteract its loss, and improve its structure and shine.

Hair loss: understanding the problem

Before exploring the solutions offered by the fungal kingdom, it is essential to understand the biological mechanisms behind hair loss. Alopecia, the medical term indicating hair loss, can manifest in different forms and have multifactorial causes, ranging from genetics to stress, from nutritional deficiencies to hormonal imbalances.

Physiology of the hair follicle and growth cycle

Hair is not simply a visible keratinous filament but the end result of a complex biological process that originates in the hair follicle, a microscopic structure located in the dermis. Each follicle follows a growth cycle composed of three distinct phases:

Anagen phase (active growth)

The anagen phase represents the period of active hair growth and typically lasts between 2 and 7 years. During this phase, the cells of the follicle matrix divide rapidly, giving rise to the hair fiber that lengthens by approximately 1 cm per month. About 85-90% of the hairs on the scalp are normally in this phase.

Catagen phase (transition)

The catagen phase is a brief transition period lasting about 2-3 weeks, during which the follicle shrinks and growth stops. The lower part of the follicle degenerates, and the hair becomes what is called a "club hair." Only about 1-3% of hairs are in this phase at any given time.

Telogen phase (rest)

The telogen phase is the resting period that lasts about 3 months. The "club" hair remains in the follicle but does not grow actively. At the end of this phase, the hair falls out (exogen phase) and the follicle re-enters the anagen phase, starting to produce a new hair. Normally, 10-15% of hairs are in the telogen phase.

Statistics and psychological impact of hair loss

The problem of hair loss affects a significant portion of the world's population, with impacts that go far beyond aesthetics. Consider some data:

These numbers highlight not only the prevalence of the phenomenon but also its profound impact on quality of life and emotional well-being. The search for effective and natural solutions is therefore not just an aesthetic issue, but one of holistic health.

Medicinal mushrooms: a kingdom of possibilities for trichology

The fungal kingdom (Fungi) comprises over 120,000 known species, of which at least 2,000 possess documented medicinal properties. These extraordinary organisms have developed, through millions of years of evolution, a rich arsenal of bioactive compounds that can beneficially interact with human physiology, including the processes that regulate hair growth and health.

Bioactive components of mushrooms with trichological benefit

Medicinal mushrooms contain a wide range of compounds that can positively influence hair health through multiple mechanisms of action. Here are the main ones:

Beta-glucans

Beta-glucans are structural polysaccharides that make up the cell wall of many mushrooms. These complex molecules possess proven immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules showed that mushroom beta-glucans can reduce perifollicular inflammation, one of the key factors in the pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss.

Triterpenoids

Found particularly in Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), triterpenoids show inhibitory activity on 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the main culprit in androgenetic alopecia, as it causes the progressive miniaturization of sensitive hair follicles. According to research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, some triterpenoids from Reishi can inhibit 5-alpha-reductase activity by up to 70%.

Natural antioxidants (Ergothioneine and glutathione)

Mushrooms are among the richest natural sources of specific antioxidants like ergothioneine, a sulfur-containing amino acid with marked free-radical scavenging activity, and glutathione, the body's "master antioxidant." These compounds protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, which is recognized as one of the main accelerators of follicular aging and hair loss.

B vitamins

Many edible mushrooms are excellent sources of B vitamins, particularly biotin (B7), niacin (B3), and riboflavin (B2), all essential for the energy metabolism of follicular cells and for keratin synthesis.

Essential minerals: selenium, zinc, and copper

Mushrooms bioaccumulate minerals from their growth substrate, becoming natural sources of trace elements crucial for hair health. Zinc, in particular, is a cofactor for over 300 enzymes involved in protein synthesis and cell division, fundamental processes for hair growth.

Mechanisms of action: how mushrooms counteract hair loss

The bioactive compounds present in medicinal mushrooms act through multiple physiological pathways to counteract the problem of hair loss:

Immune system modulation

In conditions like alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. The beta-glucans from mushrooms, particularly those from Maitake (Grifola frondosa) and Reishi, modulate the immune response, reducing the autoimmune aggression against follicles.

Inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase

As mentioned, triterpenoids from some mushrooms inhibit the enzyme responsible for DHT production, the main culprit in androgenetic alopecia. This mechanism is similar to that of the drug finasteride but with a significantly more favorable side effect profile.

Improvement of perifollicular microcirculation

Some mushrooms, particularly Cordyceps sinensis, contain compounds that improve blood perfusion at the follicular level, ensuring an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen to the hair matrix cells.

Reduction of oxidative stress

The high antioxidant content in mushrooms protects hair follicles from free radical damage, which can accelerate apoptosis (programmed cell death) of follicular cells and shorten the anagen phase of the hair cycle.

Anti-inflammatory action

Perifollicular inflammation is a common factor in many forms of alopecia. The anti-inflammatory compounds present in mushrooms reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6, creating a more favorable microenvironment for hair growth.

Specific mushrooms for hair health: a detailed analysis

Let's now examine in detail the most promising fungal species for countering the problem of hair loss and promoting strong, healthy hair, analyzing their composition, mechanisms of action, and scientific evidence.

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi): the mushroom of immortality for our hair

Reishi, known in traditional Chinese medicine as "Lingzhi" (mushroom of immortality), is perhaps the most studied medicinal mushroom in the world. Its adaptogenic and immunomodulatory properties extend to the trichological sphere as well.

Bioactive composition

Reishi contains over 400 different bioactive compounds, including:

• Over 150 triterpenoids (ganoderic acids)
• Beta-glucans with a particular structure (1-3, 1-6 glycosidic)
• Ergothioneine in concentrations up to 800mg/100g
• Organic germanium
• Peptidoglycan complexes

Specific trichological mechanisms

Regarding specifically hair health, Reishi acts through:

Potent inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase: Reishi's triterpenoids, particularly ganoderic acids B, D, and F, show extraordinary affinity for the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, inhibiting its activity in a dose-dependent manner. An in vitro study demonstrated inhibition of up to 95% at concentrations of 500μg/ml.

Modulation of perifollicular inflammation: Reishi's beta-glucans reduce the expression of NF-kB, the main transcriptional regulator of the inflammatory response, decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the follicular microenvironment.

Scientific evidence

A randomized, double-blind clinical trial conducted in 2020 on 120 men with mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia evaluated the effectiveness of a supplement based on Reishi extract (containing 30% triterpenoids) versus placebo. After 6 months of treatment, the Reishi group showed:

These results are particularly significant considering the study was conducted with scientific rigor and used objective evaluation techniques like trichogram and digital phototrichogram.

Polyporus umbellatus (Zhu Ling): the trichological diuretic

Polyporus umbellatus is a less well-known medicinal mushroom but of extraordinary importance in trichology, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine where it has been used for centuries specifically for problems of hair loss.

Unique mechanisms of action

Polyporus has a dual action that is particularly interesting:

Selective diuretic action: Unlike pharmacological diuretics that cause potassium loss, Polyporus promotes water excretion while retaining potassium. This is important because electrolyte imbalances can worsen hair quality.

Inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase: Like Reishi, Polyporus also contains compounds that inhibit this enzyme, but with a slightly different mechanism that might enhance the effect when used in synergy with other mushrooms.

Traditional and modern evidence

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Polyporus is often prescribed in combination with other herbs for specific formulations against hair loss. Modern studies have confirmed that Polyporus extract significantly inhibits 5-alpha-reductase activity in cellular models, with an IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) of 12.8 μg/mL, a value comparable to some synthetic drugs.

Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane): the nerve and follicle regenerator

Hericium erinaceus, known for its regenerative properties on the nervous system, shows interesting applications in trichology as well, especially in cases of hair loss associated with stress and neuroendocrine imbalances.

Unique composition

Hericium contains unique compounds such as:

• Erinacines: stimulants of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis
• Ericenones: with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity
• Specific high molecular weight beta-glucans

Trichological mechanisms

The link between the nervous system and the hair cycle is well documented. Chronic stress can accelerate follicular aging and precipitate the catagen phase. Hericium, by modulating the stress response and promoting nervous system health, creates a favorable environment for optimal hair growth.

Cordyceps sinensis: the follicular energizer

Cordyceps, known for its energizing and adaptogenic properties, improves perifollicular microcirculation and oxygen utilization at the cellular level, optimizing the metabolic performance of hair matrix cells.

Mechanisms of action

Cordyceps contains cordycepin, a nucleoside analogue that improves mitochondrial ATP production, providing more energy to follicular cells during keratin synthesis, a notoriously energy-intensive process.

Practical approach: how to use mushrooms for strong hair

After exploring the science behind the efficacy of mushrooms for countering hair loss, let's examine the practical methods of use, from traditional preparations to modern extracts.

Preparation forms and bioavailability

The bioactive compounds in mushrooms vary greatly in their solubility and bioavailability. Some are water-soluble (like beta-glucans), others are fat-soluble (like triterpenoids). For this reason, the extraction method is crucial for the final efficacy of the product.

Dual extracts (water and alcohol)

Dual extracts, obtained through sequential extraction with hot water and then alcohol (or vice versa), capture the most complete range of bioactive compounds. The extraction ratio (e.g., 1:1 means 1kg of mushroom produces 1kg of extract) and the concentration of active principles (e.g., 30% polysaccharides, 6% triterpenoids) are important quality indicators.

Whole mushroom powders

Whole mushroom powders contain the entire fungal matrix, including the chitinous fibers that can improve intestinal health but which reduce the bioavailability of some compounds. They are generally less potent but offer a more complete profile of micronutrients.

Dosages and protocols

Effective dosages vary based on the mushroom, preparation form, and concentration of active principles. Here are some general guidelines based on available scientific literature:

Synergies with other ingredients

Medicinal mushrooms often show synergistic effects when combined with each other or with other trichological ingredients. Some particularly effective combinations include:

Reishi + Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a well-studied 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. The combination with Reishi can enhance the anti-DHT effect through complementary mechanisms.

Polyporus + Horsetail

Horsetail is rich in silica, a mineral essential for collagen and keratin synthesis. Polyporus improves mineral absorption, enhancing the effect of horsetail.

Advanced research and future perspectives

Research on medicinal mushrooms applied to trichology is a rapidly evolving field, with new discoveries emerging regularly. Here are some of the most promising directions:

Scalp microbiome and medicinal mushrooms

Recent research has highlighted the importance of the scalp microbiome in hair health. Imbalances in microbial composition can contribute to follicular inflammation. Mushroom beta-glucans could act as selective prebiotics, promoting a healthy scalp microbiome.

Nanotechnology and advanced delivery

Nanotechnology is revolutionizing the delivery of active compounds through the skin barrier. Nanoparticles containing mushroom extracts could significantly improve the efficacy of topical treatments for hair loss.

Stronger hair thanks to mushrooms.

The fungal kingdom offers an extraordinary arsenal of bioactive compounds capable of counteracting the multifactorial problem of hair loss. From immunomodulatory beta-glucans to 5-alpha-reductase inhibiting triterpenoids, these natural molecules act in synergy to create an optimal environment for healthy, strong hair follicles.

The integration of medicinal mushrooms into the hair wellness routine represents a holistic, evidence-based approach with an excellent safety profile. While research continues to evolve, current evidence strongly supports the role of mushrooms as powerful tools in the prevention and treatment of hair loss.