Can you show me a person with absolutely no hair fall? Finding such a person, especially these days, is impossible. Hair loss has become such a critical issue worldwide that scientists are researching more to find a feasible natural solution. Raspberry ketone is one of those newly found ‘miracles.’ Though studies are still going on to know more about its efficacy in dealing with hair loss, the evidence indicates that the innovation is quite an efficient remedy for hair growth. (1)(2)
About Raspberry Ketone
Raspberry ketone is primarily obtained from red raspberries (Rubus idaeus) and is found in small amounts in similar fruits like strawberries, cranberries, blackberries, kiwi, etc. This is what gives red raspberries their unique, spicy aroma and flavor. The chemical compound is Rasketone, p-Hydroxybenzyl acetone, Oxyphenylon, 4-(p-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, Rheosmin, and Frambinone.
Raspberry ketone, which has been stirring up the health industry for quite some time now for its potential weight loss properties, is similar to the most active component of chili peppers, i.e., ‘capsaicin.’ However, the substance used in synthetic supplements is not extracted from real red raspberries. Instead, it is produced industrially to avoid huge expenses. Besides being used in weight loss supplements, Raspberry ketone is also used in the cosmetic industry to treat hair loss and promote growth.
Also Read – Flax Seeds – Why and How to Use Them for Hair Growth
Why Raspberry Ketone For Hair?
Overweight or obese people have been pretty excited about the belly fat-busting qualities of raspberry ketone. Still, it has been found that the chemical compound can do much more than help with weight loss. It can significantly benefit our scalp and hair when applied topically or as a supplement. Here is how:
- It promotes the regrowth of healthy hair
- It can treat alopecia areata to some extent
- It can turn out to be a potent remedy for baldness
Studies To Consider
According to Japanese research, the ketones present in the red raspberry extract can increase hair growth by as much as 50% in people suffering from androgenic alopecia or pattern baldness after a continuous treatment of 5 months. This finding led the researchers to conclude that the ketone content of the berry extract can stimulate the hair follicles lying on the scalp, thereby boosting the growth of locks dramatically. It also made them believe that the natural extract of raspberry holds excellent properties for curing baldness and preventing its occurrence.
Another study focusing on the causes of baldness in men also contributed to discovering the benefits of raspberry ketone. Scientists conducting the study found a protein named prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), which is believed responsible for extreme hair fall and baldness in men. The genes analyzed from the bald patches were compared to those analyzed from the parts of the scalp with intact hair. The analytical result revealed that the production of PGD2 was almost three times higher in the bald areas than in the areas with hair. Further studies also disclosed that the hair follicle density throughout the bald area was remarkably low and closely linked to the high level of PGD2. Based on these findings, a reliable hair growth and restoration remedy was developed, and raspberry ketone was perfect.
How Does Raspberry Ketone Work For Hair Growth?
As said before, raspberry ketone is chemically similar to capsaicin, the component in hot peppers, and gives us a burning sensation while consumed. Many studies have already been conducted on capsaicin, which has been found to add to the expression of IGF-1 (an insulin-like growth factor) in the dermal layer (especially in the hair follicles on the scalp). This increases the growth of hair, even in bald people. Similar effects were observed in the case of raspberry ketone, too.
The extract of red raspberry can boost the production of insulin growth factor-1 in our scalp while applied topically. It activates our sensory neurons and stimulates them to release calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which eventually promotes the formation of IGF-1 and leads to hair regrowth.
Words Of Caution
Essentially, these studies are not enough to prove the efficacy of raspberry ketone in curing baldness. More and more research is needed to develop every information related to the fact. It should always be kept in mind that scientists are yet to learn the correct dosage, drug interactions, side effects, etc., associated with the usage of raspberry ketone for hair growth. Hence, it is always recommended that you consult with your physician before deciding on the internal or external use of raspberry ketone.
Summary
Raspberry ketone, primarily derived from red raspberries, has gained attention for weight loss and potential hair growth benefits. Studies suggest its application or supplementation may promote hair regrowth and address conditions like androgenic alopecia. Japanese research indicates a significant increase in hair growth after continuous use. Chemical similarities with capsaicin, found in hot peppers, suggest a mechanism involving insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) stimulation in the scalp, encouraging hair regrowth. However, caution is advised, as more research is needed to establish efficacy, dosage, and potential side effects.
