Postpartum Hair - Science Hub
Study: What Science Says About Ganoderma lucidum & Postpartum Hair Loss
What researchers are learning about Ganoderma lucidum and hormonal hair changes
After having a baby, your body shifts in ways you didn’t expect.
One of the most frustrating?
Hair that’s slower to come back - or feels thinner than before.
Many of us chalk it up to “normal postpartum hair loss.”
But there’s one hidden player behind this change: DHT.
And there’s one natural ingredient that may support your body’s response to it: Ganoderma lucidum, also known as Reishi mushroom.
Let’s look at what the science says.
Study Overview
Study Title: Anti-androgenic Activities of Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Rumi Fujita, Jie Liu, Kuniyoshi Shimizu, et al.
Published In: Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2005
Reference: PubMed
Key Findings from the Study
The extract of Ganoderma lucidum showed strong activity in inhibiting 5α-reductase, the enzyme that helps convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) - a hormone associated with hair thinning.
Among 19 fungi tested, Ganoderma lucidum demonstrated the strongest effect on reducing DHT-related enzyme activity.
In animal studies, the extract significantly reduced testosterone-induced prostate growth, suggesting that Ganoderma lucidum may influence how the body handles elevated DHT levels.
What This Could Mean for Your Hair Journey
During postpartum recovery, hormone shifts can affect how your hair grows and sheds.
One hormone often involved is DHT.
It can make hair follicles more sensitive and slow the regrowth process for some of us.
This study suggests that Ganoderma lucidum may offer gentle support by:
✔ Encouraging a healthy response to DHT activity
✔ Supporting a calm, balanced scalp environment
✔ Helping your body navigate natural postpartum hormone changes
The takeaway?
If your hair feels slower to return or thinner than before, it may be connected to how your body is responding to postpartum hormone shifts.
Understanding the Connection: DHT & Postpartum Hair Changes
How DHT Affects Hair
- DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone that can bind to hair follicles, making them shrink over time - a process sometimes called "miniaturization."
- When this happens, new hair may grow back finer, weaker, or take longer to appear. After birth, hormonal shifts may increase sensitivity to DHT in some people, making these changes more noticeable.
Where Ganoderma lucidum Comes In
Ganoderma lucidum, found in Luna Gold NIGHTTIME - Hair Renewal, has been traditionally used to support:
✔ A calm, balanced internal environment during times of change.
✔ Natural inflammation response, which is essential for scalp wellness.
✔ Gentle hormonal support during the postpartum transition.
One Thing to Keep in Mind
While Ganoderma lucidum shows promising activity in early studies, its active compounds (like ganoderic acids) may be processed quickly in the body. That means the timing and consistency of use could play a role in how it supports your wellness.
More research is still needed to fully understand the best way to use it for hair wellness - but it’s a fascinating and powerful support to have on your side.
How to Support Postpartum Hair Naturally
Here are four key ways to care for your hair during recovery. Based on traditional use and emerging research:
✔ Support Scalp Circulation
Cordyceps sinensis (found in Luna Gold MORNING - Hair Energy) has been traditionally used to support healthy blood flow and vitality.
✔ Support Hormonal Balance
Ganoderma lucidum (Luna Gold NIGHTTIME – Hair Renewal) is valued for its role in promoting balance during hormonal transitions.
✔ Protect Follicles from Stressors
Inonotus obliquus (Luna Gold AFTERNOON - Hair Strength) contains naturally occurring antioxidants that help support overall scalp wellness.
✔ Build Resilience During Stress
Adaptogens like Ganoderma lucidum help your body respond to daily stress. So it can focus on rest, repair, and renewal.
That’s why we created the Luna Gold Holistic Hair - 30-Day Support System: to walk with you through postpartum recovery with gentle, consistent care.
FAQs: DHT, Hormones & Hair Recovery
How do I know if DHT might be playing a role in my hair changes?
✔ If your hairline or part looks noticeably thinner.
✔ If postpartum shedding continues beyond 12 months.
✔ If you have a family history of hair thinning or hormonal sensitivity.
Can Ganoderma lucidum help support hair health after birth?
Ganoderma lucidum, traditionally used to support balance and relaxation, has shown potential to influence how the body responds to hormonal changes. While it’s not a treatment for hair loss, it may be helpful as part of a daily wellness routine focused on recovery and resilience.
When should I check in with a healthcare provider?
✔ If your hair continues thinning a year or more after birth.
✔ If you notice bald patches or reduced density around the crown or hairline.
✔ If you're also experiencing signs like fatigue, irregular cycles, or weight changes.
