Mixture of Mastic Gum and Peppermint Extracts Promotes Hair Growth and Health in Vitro and in C57BL/6 Mice
- Author:
Seoyoon HAM
1
;
Young In LEE
;
Yujin JANG
;
Sang Gu LEE
;
Jangmi SUK
;
Inhee JUNG
;
Jae Hyun PARK
;
Ju Hee LEE
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Yonsei Medical Journal 2025;66(5):310-320
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Hair disorders, which are often attributed to conditions associated with a shortened anagen growth phase, oxidative stress, and hormonal dysregulation, especially during aging, have profound psychological implications. Currently, only minoxidil has been approved as a topical hair growth solution; thus, alternative therapies for treating hair loss and promoting hair health are urgently needed. Herein, we aimed to develop and assess a novel method to promote hair growth and health using mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) gum and peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) extracts.
Materials and Methods:After determining the optimal ratio of mastic gum and peppermint extracts, we performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to verify the efficacy of the 7:3 mastic gum-peppermint mixture (MP73; FHH-MG) for enhancing hair growth and health.
Results:Mastic gum significantly promoted cell proliferation and demonstrated synergistic benefits when combined with peppermint extract. In vitro, FHH-MG increased human dermal follicle papilla cell proliferation and demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In vivo, treatment with FHH-MG dose-dependently enhanced hair growth and gloss and increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor, β-catenin, and insulin-like growth factor-1 in C57BL/6 mice compared to the negative control.
Conclusion:The novel mixture exhibited hair growth-promoting effects in C57BL/6 mice; thus, FHH-MG may serve as a botanical alternative for hair growth and health promotion.
