Researchers from Chulalongkorn University and Mahidol University are expanding a joint study into the use of Riceberry-derived compounds to address hair loss and premature greying, with a full clinical trial expected to begin early next year.
The collaborative research centres on AnthoRice Complex, developed from organic Riceberry rice, which has shown promising results in laboratory tests for stimulating hair growth and restoring natural hair colour. The project is led by Assoc Prof Pithi Chanvorachote of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Chulalongkorn University.
He said Riceberry contains high concentrations of anthocyanins -- ranging from 16 to 273 milligrammes per 100 grammes -- as well as essential vitamins including B1, B5 and B12. Anthocyanins are known to stimulate melanin production, the pigment responsible for hair colour. The research team found that AnthoRice Complex could activate melanin production directly at the hair root, addressing both hair thinning and greying.
The compound has been combined with StemAktive technology, a proprietary platform developed by the Chulalongkorn research team. StemAktive uses extracts from five Thai herbs -- butterfly pea, Indian gooseberry, kaffir lime, soybean and blue trumpet vine -- selected for their ability to remove damaged cells, promote hair follicle regeneration and protect hair roots from stress and environmental factors. Lab trials on cell models showed the combined AnthoRice Complex and StemAktive technology increased stem cell growth by five to six times. The organic Riceberry extract was also found to stimulate melanin through a dual-pathway melanogenesis process, helping to rehabilitate hair roots and extend the period during which hair retains its natural dark colour, Assoc Prof Pithi said.
The Riceberry used in the research is supplied by a state enterprise organic farming group in Phichit province, which has worked closely with the research team since last year. The use of organic rice is intended to enhance product safety while adding value to locally grown crops. Sittha Sukkhan, chairman of the state enterprise, said the project could open new markets for farmers cultivating organic Riceberry and increase community-level income if the product is later commercialised.
Clinical trials on humans will be conducted by the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University. According to Rattapon Thuangtong of the Faculty of Medicine, the trial will involve 64 participants aged between 25 and 60, evenly divided between a treatment group and a placebo group, over a six-month period. The study will assess hair growth, changes in hair colour and overall safety.