Phytotherapy leverages plant-based compounds—like quercetin, curcumin, and carnosic acid—to combat inflammation and support hair follicle health. Many botanicals target the prostaglandin D₂ receptor (GPR44), a key mediator of inflammation linked to hair thinning. If GPR44 is overly active, follicles can be suppressed, leading to progressive hair loss.
Your expression level of GPR44, defined by genetics, affects how well phytotherapeutic treatments may help restore scalp health and support regrowth.
Genetics & Botanical Response
This trait reflects variants that influence GPR44 receptor expression in scalp tissue. Higher receptor levels mean increased sensitivity to PGD₂, which can promote follicle miniaturization and inhibit growth. Understanding your GPR44 profile helps determine whether botanical strategies are likely to be efficacious.
Likelihood Levels & What They Mean
- Low likelihood
Your GPR44 expression is normal, suggesting limited inflammatory activity from PGD₂, and therefore botanical anti-inflammatory treatments may offer minimal benefit. - Moderate likelihood
With moderately increased GPR44 expression, your follicles are more sensitive to inflammation. Botanicals may help, if used alongside Prostaglandin-modulating therapy. - High likelihood
Elevated GPR44 expression implies significant inflammatory sensitivity. Well-formulated phytotherapy could meaningfully lower PGD₂ impact and support scalp recovery.
Targeted Strategies by Likelihood Level
Low Likelihood – Limited Benefit from Phytotherapy
- Focus elsewhere first
Nutrient, hormonal, or dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-focused treatments may deliver more impact than botanical anti-inflammatories alone. - Consider phytotherapy as secondary
Botanical extras can still provide general scalp wellness, though not likely hair restoration.
Moderate Likelihood – Complementary Botanical Support
- Start combination approaches
Pair topical botanicals (nettle, turmeric, sea buckthorn, rosemary, milk thistle, parsley) with primary hair-restoration treatments. - Calm inflammation proactively
These botanicals can help neutralize moderate PGD₂-driven scalp irritation, supporting follicle health.
High Likelihood – Meaningful Support from Phytotherapy
- Prioritize well-formulated botanicals
Focus on ingredients with strong evidence—quercetin, curcumin, carnosic acid, resveratrol, apigenin. - Use topicals targeting PGD₂
Biomimetic scalp treatments designed to block PGD₂ signaling may have significant benefit. - Monitor and iterate
Track hair-quality improvements and scalp comfort closely to fine-tune your botanical regimen.
How to Proceed
Insights from your GPR44 expression profile empower you to apply phytotherapy in a smart, targeted way. Whether your genetics suggest limited, moderate, or significant benefit, combining botanicals with other proven treatments allows you to tailor your strategy effectively for healthier hair over time.
Resources
StrandIQ SNP Marker Count: 2
StrandIQ Genes for Trait:
PTGDR2
References:
Francès, M.P., et al. (2024). Utilising SNP association analysis as a prospective approach for personalising androgenetic alopecia treatment. Dermatology and Therapy (Heidelberg), 14(4), 971–981. PMID: 38555553.
Garza, L.A., et al. (2012). Prostaglandin D2 inhibits hair growth and is elevated in bald scalp of men with androgenetic alopecia. Science Translational Medicine, 4(126), 126ra34. PMID: 22440736.
Nieves, A., Garza, L.A. (2014). Does prostaglandin D2 hold the cure to male pattern baldness? Experimental Dermatology, 23(4), 224–227. PMID: 24521203.
Shin, D.W. (2022). The physiological and pharmacological roles of prostaglandins in hair growth. Korean Journal of Physiology & Pharmacology, 26(6), 405–413. PMID: 36302616.
This content, including StrandIQ™ DNA analysis reports and any Happy Head products and/or services referenced therein, is for informational and cosmetic purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content does not constitute medical advice and should not be used to make healthcare decisions. References to prescription treatments are educational in nature. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for any medical concerns or treatment decisions.
