As interest in this field continues to gain traction, new research has discovered the beneficial side effects of quercitrin on hair growth. Here’s what the science says.
Published in the National Library of Medicine in the last quarter of 2020, a research team from Chungnam National University, South Korea, put forward their findings.
They investigated the “molecular mechanisms of quercitrin” – an extract from houttuynia cordata extract.
Houttunya cordata is known as an attractive low-growing “chameleon plant”, clarified Gardeners’ World Magazine.
This means hairs fall out while others are in the growth phase; otherwise, everyone would repeatedly go completely bald every few years.
The scientific research paper pointed out that quercitrin increased the “expression of growth factors”, such as “bFGF, KGF, PDGF-AA, and VEGF”.
From this data, the researchers concluded: “Quercitrin is (one of) the active compound(s) of Hottuynia cordata extract which showed hair growth promoting effects.”
What’s quercitrin?
WebMD stated quercitrin is a plant pigment (i.e. a flavonoid) that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quercitrin is easily obtainable in supplementation form, which can be found in some supermarkets and health stores.
It’s also found in vegetables, said WebMD, with the following list containing “high amounts”:
- Kale
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Raw asparagus
- Capers
- Raw red onion
- Nuts and seeds
- Olive oil
- Red grapes
- Cherries
Quercitrin is also available in herbs, such as:
- American elder
- St John’s wort
- Ginkgo biloba
When taken as food, quercitrin is likely safe, but if taken in supplement form, one is advised to speak to their doctor first.
This is to ensure quercitrin supplementation won’t interact with any other medications you may be on.
Hair loss prevention works well in tandem, so as well as taking quercitrin – whether it’s from food or supplements – other measures can help.
For example, the daily use of minoxidil is recommended for those concerned about hair loss.
Minoxidil is medication used for the treatment for male-pattern hair loss.