TOKYO, Dec 12 — A substance from honeybee hives called propolis encouraged hair growth in mice during a new study conducted by researchers in Japan.

The resin-like material is used by honeybees to seal small crevices in their hives, according to the research team, which says it could contain important clues for reversing hair loss in humans.

Spring-boarding on recent research suggesting propolis could promote the growth of cells that contribute to hair growth, Ken Kobayaski and his team were curious to find out if it could actually create new locks.

They prepped their mice by either shaving or waxing them, and in both cases those that had received a topical application of propolis grew their fur back faster than those that didn’t.

Importantly, the number of cells involved in hair growth increased after propolis had been applied to the skin.

While propolis was only tested on mice that were capable of growing fur rather than balding mice, the research team points out that hair loss is often the result of inflammation.

Because it contains anti-inflammatory elements, the researchers say they expect propolis to reverse hair loss due to balding, although they acknowledge that further testing is necessary.

Propolis, which also has antifungal properties, was used to treat tumours, inflammation and wounds in ancient times.

The study was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. — AFP/Relaxnews