Postpartum Hair - Science Hub
Study: Can Inonotus obliquus Support Hair Follicle Growth?
What researchers are discovering about this natural compound and its effect on hair follicle cells
After giving birth, it’s normal for hair to feel thinner or slower to grow. But what’s happening under the surface may surprise you.
Hair regrowth starts deep in the follicle, in special cells called dermal papilla cells. These tiny command centers help determine how thick, strong, and fast your hair grows.
One natural compound, Inonotus obliquus, is showing promise in supporting these cells and helping your scalp create the right conditions for healthy hair.
Let’s take a look at the research.
Study Overview
Study Title: Lanostane-type triterpenes from the sclerotium of Inonotus obliquus as pro-proliferative agents on human follicle dermal papilla cells
Authors: Kazumi Sagayama, Naonobu Tanaka, Takatoshi Fukumoto, Yoshiki Kashiwada
Published In: Journal of Natural Medicines, 2019
Reference: PubMed
Key Findings from the Study
Inonotus obliquus contains natural compounds called lanostane-type triterpenes, which were shown to activate human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs)- the key cells that help regulate hair growth cycles.
Researchers identified four specific triterpenes that showed even stronger effects on follicle cell activity than minoxidil (the active compound in many hair regrowth formulas), in a lab setting.
The study suggests these compounds could be promising ingredients in natural hair care approaches focused on follicle support.
What This Could Mean for You
Healthy hair growth starts at the root.
And more specifically, in dermal papilla cells, which signal whether a hair strand keeps growing or starts to shed.
This study suggests that natural compounds in Inonotus obliquus may offer gentle support by:
✔ Activating follicle cells that are central to the hair growth cycle.
✔ Helping maintain a scalp environment where follicles can thrive.
✔ Offering a plant-based alternative to synthetic approaches, rooted in traditional wellness.
The takeaway?
If your hair feels slow to come back after birth, it may be time to give your follicles the support they need to reawaken and rebuild.
How Inonotus obliquus Supports Hair Follicle Health
What Are Dermal Papilla Cells?
- These are specialized cells at the base of each hair follicle.
- They help regulate the hair growth cycle by signaling when hair should grow, rest, or shed.
- When these cells are weak or under stress, hair can enter the shedding phase too soon, leading to thinning or stalled regrowth.
How Inonotus obliquus May Help
✔ Contains lanostane-type triterpenes, studied for their ability to activate follicle cells.
✔ Supports conditions that may help extend the anagen phase (the active growth phase) of hair.
✔ In lab studies, certain compounds outperformed minoxidil in stimulating follicle cell activity.
While more research is needed, this study highlights Inonotus obliquus as a promising natural ingredient for follicle-focused hair wellness.
How to Support Hair Regrowth Naturally
Caring for your follicles goes beyond one ingredient.
Here's a science-informed, holistic approach to supporting your hair after birth:
✔ Support Follicle Activity Naturally
Inonotus obliquus (found in Luna Gold AFTERNOON – Hair Strength) contains plant compounds studied for their ability to activate key follicle cells.
✔ Improve Scalp Circulation
Cordyceps sinensis (Luna Gold MORNING – Hair Energy) has been traditionally used to support oxygen delivery and blood flow.
✔ Maintain Hormonal Balance
Ganoderma lucidum (Luna Gold NIGHTTIME – Hair Renewal) is used in traditional wellness to support equilibrium during postpartum shifts.
✔ Protect Follicles From Stress
Inonotus obliquus also offers antioxidant support, helping reduce the effects of oxidative stress on fragile new hair.
That’s why we created the Luna Gold Holistic Hair - 30-Day Support System. To nourish your follicles from every angle, gently and consistently.
FAQs: What You Need to Know About Hair Follicle Growth
How do I know if my follicles need extra support?
✔ If your hair feels slow to grow back after birth.
✔ If your strands feel thinner or more fragile than before.
✔ If shedding continues past 12 months postpartum.
Is Inonotus obliquus clinically proven to regrow hair?
While large-scale human trials are still needed, recent studies on follicle dermal papilla cells show promising activity. These findings suggest that compounds in Inonotus obliquus may help support the hair growth cycle. Especially during recovery phases like postpartum.
When should I be concerned about slow hair regrowth?
✔ If shedding hasn't slowed by 12 months postpartum.
✔ If you notice visible thinning, a wider part, or reduced density.
✔ If you're also experiencing fatigue, irregular cycles, or other hormonal symptoms.
