The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2024; 13(2):160-166 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2024.13210

Research Article

Orchid callus extract: a sustainable and natural active to promote hair growth

Bobby Cherian Kallukalam¹ , Pavani Karempudi² , Ajay Kumar Dixit² , Gurpreet Kalsi²

Bobby Cherian Kallukalam,Pavani Karempudi,Ajay Kumar Dixit,Gurpreet Kalsi

1. Corporate R&D, Biosciences Department, ITC Limited, Life Sciences & Technology Centre, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
2. Corporate R&D, Biosciences Department, Life Sciences & Technology Centre, ITC Limited, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 19th March, 2024 / Accepted: 26th April, 2024 / Published : 30th April, 2024

Abstract

Background: Tissue culture is an important tool that can help to overcome many of the limitations associated with traditional plant cultivation methods. By adopting tissue culture techniques, it is possible to produce high-quality plant based raw materials in a more sustainable and environment friendly way. By cultivating calluses of Dendrobium spp. under controlled conditions, it is possible to obtain a consistent and high-quality supply of bioactive compounds that can be harvested and purified. This approach may also reduce the need for traditional harvesting methods that can damage natural habitats and ecosystems. Aims: Evaluating the efficacy of orchid callus extract as a sustainable active that can be deployed in the personal care industry as a possible hair growth promoting ingredients Methods: Six different callus extracts were prepared and tested on in vitro hair growth assays using goat and human hair follicles. Selected extracts were further validated on the proliferation profile of human hair follicle stem cells. Results: This study provides evidence that orchid callus extracts have a positive impact on stimulating the growth of hair follicles and improving the proliferation capacity of hair follicle stem cells. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that orchid callus extracts may have potential applications in hair care formulations. The use of sustainable and natural sources of bioactive compounds, such as orchid callus extract, may offer a more environment friendly alternative to traditional ingredients and may help to meet the growing demand for natural and sustainable personal care products.