TLDR Cepharanthine is a well-tolerated drug with multiple medical uses, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Cepharanthine (CEP), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid used in Japan since the 1950s, treated various acute and chronic conditions such as leukopenia, snake bites, xerostomia, and alopecia. Derived from Stephania cephalantha Hayata, CEP exhibited anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, immuno-regulatory, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-parasitic properties. Its multifactorial mechanism included membrane effects and interference with metabolic pathways like AMPK and NFκB, crucial for its anti-inflammatory action. The review traced CEP's historical development, detailed its pharmacological actions, and proposed future clinical applications for this well-tolerated drug.
13 citations,
October 2013 in “The Journal of Dermatology” Cepharanthine may help hair growth by increasing IGF-I in scalp cells.
16 citations,
April 2011 in “Recent Patents on Inflammation & Allergy Drug Discovery” Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease causing hair loss in patches, often starting before age 20, and while some cases recover on their own, treatments include topical corticosteroids, minoxidil, and promising new methods like IL-31 antibodies and 308-nm Excimer laser therapy.
3 citations,
June 2023 in “Molecules/Molecules online/Molecules annual” Cepharanthine has many medicinal uses but needs improvement for better effectiveness.
182 citations,
November 2018 in “Cosmetics” Seaweeds have beneficial compounds for skin care, including anti-aging and protective effects.
8 citations,
April 2020 in “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” Herbs might help with hair loss, but more research is needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
70 citations,
July 2020 in “Pharmacological Reports” Cepharanthine, a Japanese hair loss drug, shows promise as a COVID-19 treatment but needs more testing.
Cepharanthine could be a strong antiviral against COVID-19.
