Deciphering Anti-Alopecia Activity of Polyphenol from Beta Vulgaris Root Against 5α-Reductase: Molecular Insight

The study explores the anti-alopecia potential of Beta vulgaris (beetroot) root extract, particularly its compounds 4-picoline and betalain, which show significant binding to the 5α-reductase enzyme with binding energies of -4.09 and -7.93 kcal/mol, respectively. This suggests their potential as effective natural inhibitors of the enzyme, which is involved in androgenetic alopecia. The findings propose Beta vulgaris root as a promising alternative treatment with potentially fewer side effects compared to current medications like finasteride and minoxidil, due to its good pharmacokinetic profile and lack of major toxic effects.