Last verified: 17 days ago
Pea Sprout Extract
Also known as: AnaGain, AnaGain Nu, Pisum sativum sprout extract, pea shoot extract
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Early-stage research suggests pea sprout extract may reduce hair shedding when taken daily.
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What it does
Pea sprout extract is a concentrated extract from the young shoots of the common pea plant (Pisum sativum). Early research suggests it may help reduce hair loss by activating genes involved in...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
100 mg daily (oral); 2% topical solution
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Found in
What the Science Says
Pea sprout extract is a concentrated extract from the young shoots of the common pea plant (Pisum sativum). Early research suggests it may help reduce hair loss by activating genes involved in hair follicle growth, specifically FGF7 and noggin. One small pilot study found that 100 mg taken daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced hair shedding within 28 days, with no reported side effects.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to regrow hair that has already been lost. Not a replacement for clinically proven hair loss treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. Evidence comes from a single tiny pilot study — don't expect dramatic results. No evidence it works for pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).
Evidence-Based Benefits
May reduce excessive hair shedding after 4 weeks of daily oral supplementation.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 100 mg daily
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Topical application increases expression of hair growth genes FGF7 and noggin in the scalp.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 2% topical solution
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data available from the provided studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Only one very small pilot study (21 volunteers) supports oral use — results need replication in larger trials
- The key study appears to be industry-funded research on a branded ingredient (AnaGain Nu), which introduces potential bias
- No long-term safety data beyond 8 weeks of use
- Over 1,000 supplement products contain this ingredient despite extremely limited clinical evidence
Products Containing Pea Sprout Extract
See how Pea Sprout Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pea Sprout Extract do?
Early-stage research suggests pea sprout extract may reduce hair shedding when taken daily.
What is the effective dose of Pea Sprout Extract?
100 mg daily (oral); 2% topical solution
Is Pea Sprout Extract safe?
Only one very small pilot study (21 volunteers) supports oral use — results need replication in larger trials
What doesn't Pea Sprout Extract do?
Not proven to regrow hair that has already been lost.
Research Sources
- PMID: 31680356
- General knowledge
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-07-05