Hair Loss
Thick, shiny, and strong: this is how everyone wishes for their hair. Various factors can influence the growth and health of hair.
Daily hair loss is a natural process. Just like all cells in the body, hair goes through phases of growth, rest, and shedding. On average, people lose between 70 and 100 hairs from their head each day. Normally, these are continuously replaced. If hair loss exceeds regrowth, the hair becomes thinner, and ultimately, a bald head may result. This condition is known as “alopecia.” There are three different types: hormone-related, diffuse, and circular hair loss. The “male” hair loss, or “androgenetic alopecia,” is the most common form, accounting for approximately 90% of all hair loss cases. For men, this often becomes a primary beauty concern, leading to emotional stress.
Possible Causes
Hormonal changes are often the cause of increased hair loss. In women, this phenomenon can occur during hormonal transitions such as menopause, childbirth, or after long-term use of birth control pills. Not only hormonal changes but also thyroid dysfunction, medication, environmental toxins, poor nutrition, or stress can negatively impact hair health.
Better Care
The factors listed above are associated with diffuse hair loss. This can be addressed by:
A balanced diet (whole foods, fruits, and vegetables)
Ensuring the body gets the appropriate trace elements like zinc and copper
Sufficient iron, folic acid, biotin, and vitamin C
What Can Vital Mushrooms Do?
The medicinal mushroom Polyporus umbellatus is becoming increasingly used in the context of diffuse and, in particular, nutrition- and stress-related hair loss. (Scientific studies: Yasunori Inaoka et al. 1994; Hitoshi Ishida et al. 1999; Satish Patel et al. 2015). Polyporus umbellatus contains bioactive compounds that can influence hair growth, specifically by significantly prolonging its growth phase. These include Polyporusterones A and B, Acetosyringon, and 3,4 Dihydroxybenzaldehyde. These bioactive substances play a crucial role in the growth of new hair. These scientific findings are supported by the many positive experiences of people who have taken Polyporus umbellatus in the form of a combination of mushroom extract and mushroom powder over months. In addition to Polyporus umbellatus, Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) can be used in cases of nutrient deficiencies related to hair loss. If hormonal issues are causing the hair problems, Cordyceps sinensis can be applied.
Mag. Dr. Gerhard Gruber
Microbiologist specializing in Myco- and Phytotherapy
