Gray hair is often considered an inevitable part of aging, but evidence suggests lifestyle strategies—including diet—could slow it down. A recent study in mice found that luteolin, a plant-derived antioxidant, may help prevent hair graying by targeting key cellular processes.

Researchers tested the effects of three antioxidants—luteolin, hesperetin, and diosmetin—on hair graying in mice prone to premature graying. They applied the compounds topically and administered them orally, then analyzed changes in hair color, stem cell activity, and molecular markers associated with aging hair follicles.

Luteolin, but not the other antioxidants, substantially reduced hair graying in the mice. Both topical and oral luteolin helped maintain communication between hair follicle stem cells and melanocyte stem cells,which are essential for pigment production. Mice treated with luteolin also had fewer aging-related changes in these cells, suggesting it protects against age-related hair follicle dysfunction.

These findings suggest that luteolin is a promising candidate for an anti-graying treatment. Luteolin is abundant in celery, green pepper, broccoli, carrots, and olive oil, and is also available as a dietary supplement. Learn about other strategies to slow or prevent hair graying in this episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick.