In Vitro 5α-Reductase Inhibition by Selected Ayurvedic Herbs for Androgenic Disorders

This study examines the inhibitory effects of six Ayurvedic herbs on the enzyme 5α-reductase, which is linked to androgenic disorders such as androgenic alopecia. The herbs tested include Prunus dulcis, Aloe barbadensis, Bacopa monnieri, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Emblica officinalis, and Eclipta alba. Results indicate that all extracts showed promising inhibitory activity, with Emblica officinalis and Eclipta alba having the most significant effects. The study suggests these herbs could be natural alternatives to synthetic inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride, which have side effects. The research also notes that most herbal aqueous extracts have similar effects to water extracts, except for Aloe barbadensis, which is more potent in its water extract form. These findings support the potential use of these herbs in therapeutic applications for managing alopecia and in haircare products.