HERBAL CREAMS OF REISHI EXTRACT AND TEA TREE OIL FOR HIRSUTISM–AN IN VIVO STUDY

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of herbal creams containing reishi extract and tea tree oil for treating hirsutism. Three formulations were tested on female Swiss Albino mice: RHC (reishi extract), THC (tea tree oil), and RTC (combination). Results showed that THC and RTC significantly reduced hair growth, with THC being the most effective (p<0.001) and RTC also showing significant results (p<0.05). RHC did not significantly reduce hair growth. Histological analysis indicated mild to moderate reduction in hair follicle and sebaceous gland size for THC and RTC. The study concluded that tea tree oil was more effective than reishi extract and the combination product, suggesting potential for these herbal actives in treating hirsutism, though further studies are needed for reishi.