Improvement of Androgenetic Alopecia with Topical Sophora Flavescens Aiton Extract, and Identification of the Two Active Compounds in the Extract That Stimulate Proliferation of Human Hair Keratinocytes

The study investigated the effects of Sophora flavescens Aiton extract on androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and identified two active compounds in the extract that stimulate proliferation of human hair keratinocytes. The extract was found to promote epithelial cell proliferation and hair shaft elongation ex vivo. Two pterocarpan derivatives, L-maackiain and medicarpin, were identified as the major bioactive compounds present in the extract that stimulate the proliferation of primary hHKs. A clinical study showed that the extract was an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia. Overall, the study suggests that Sophora flavescens root extract has potential as a treatment for hair loss.