What Does the Gugo Plant Do for Hair?

The gugo plant has long been hailed in the Philippines as a natural remedy for stronger, healthier hair. With its roots in traditional medicine, it remains a staple in modern hair care for its scalp-nourishing and hair-strengthening effects. But what exactly makes the gugo plant so integral to local beauty rituals, and more importantly, does it live up to the hype?

The gugo plant (Entada Phaseoloides) is a large woody vine native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Traditionally, its bark is soaked, pounded, and used as a natural shampoo. Gugo produces a lather thanks to its natural saponins, compounds that cleanse the scalp while helping maintain its natural balance.

In pre-commercial hair care days, locals would rub gugo bark directly on the scalp to clean hair, stimulate circulation, and remove product buildup. Today, gugo extract is often incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and serums that aim to enhance scalp health and support hair growth.

While shampoos and topical treatments like those containing gugo plant extract can support scalp health, it’s important to understand that they don’t directly make hair grow faster. Hair growth rate is largely determined by genetics, hormones, and overall health. However, what these products can do is create the optimal environment for healthy growth by nourishing the scalp, strengthening hair at the root, and preventing breakage. Some of its widely reported benefits include:

• Improved scalp circulation. Massaging gugo into the scalp is believed to stimulate blood flow, which may help nourish the hair follicles and encourage growth.
• Cleansing without drying. Gugo’s natural saponins gently cleanse the scalp without stripping it of natural oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
• Reduced hair fall. By strengthening the roots and removing pore-clogging buildup, gugo may help minimize hair fall associated with breakage.
• Dandruff control. Its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve itchy, flaky scalp conditions over time.

With consistent use, many users report hair that feels stronger and looks shinier. While more clinical studies are needed to confirm some of these effects, centuries of anecdotal evidence support the gugo plant's reputation as a hair care ally.

You may not be able to control the rate of your hair growth, but you can help promote stronger strands and a healthier scalp over time. Try adding these to your haircare routine.

Even just five minutes a day of gentle scalp massage can enhance nutrient delivery to the scalp. Use your fingertips or a soft silicone brush to boost absorption of any treatment oils or serums.

Strong hair starts with a balanced diet rich in iron, biotin, vitamin D, and protein. These nutrients fuel keratin production, the protein that makes up your hair’s structure.

Frequent blow-drying, straightening, or bleaching can lead to dryness and breakage. Let your hair air-dry when possible, and opt for gentler, low-heat styling techniques to preserve its strength.

If you’re concerned with hair fall, try alternating it with Dove Biotin Hairfall Rescue 1-Minute Conditioner, which nourishes hair from root to tip and visibly reduces hair fall. If you’re concerned about breakage, try adding Sunsilk Strong & Long Shampoo to your rotation. It contains a blend of biotin, aloe vera, and castor oil, which makes hair up to three times stronger as it grows. Consult your doctor before trying new products, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.

Tight hairstyles like ponytails and braids can stress the hair shaft and roots. Opt for looser styles and use silk scrunchies that are gentler on your strands. In addition, consider switching to silk pillowcases to reduce friction while you sleep.

The gugo plant may not be a miracle cure, but it offers a gentle, effective way to support hair health when used consistently and as part of a balanced routine. If you’re looking for a botanical boost, you can try adding gugo-infused shampoos to a solid regimen that aims to strengthen hair as it grows.