TLDR Medicinal plants are used to treat skin conditions, but more evidence is needed before recommending them widely.
The document from October 21, 2019, discussed the use of medicinal plants in treating various skin conditions, a practice that has been ongoing for thousands of years. The plants used varied regionally, based on local flora, and included species such as Phlebodium aureum, Ginkgo biloba, Rosmarinus officinalis, and others. The paper noted an increasing demand for complementary therapeutics due to concerns about potential side effects from synthetic drugs. However, it emphasized the need for more scientific evidence and better documentation before recommending herbal medicinal treatments to dermatologic patients. The review specifically discussed the use of herbal medicinal products in treating chronic skin diseases like vitiligo, alopecia, psoriasis, and genital warts.
26 citations
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April 2019 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Herbal alternatives like saw palmetto and green tea may offer safe, effective treatment for hormonal hair loss.
52 citations
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September 2018 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Ginseng and its compounds may help hair growth and prevent hair loss, but more human trials are needed to confirm this.
14 citations
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January 2014 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Minoxidil with Korean red ginseng improves hair density and thickness more than minoxidil alone.
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March 2011 in “Oxidative stress and disease” Some herbal treatments are effective for skin disorders, but more research and regulation are needed.
95 citations
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June 2002 in “The Journal of Dermatology” Onion juice is more effective than tap water for hair re-growth in patchy alopecia areata.
122 citations
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November 1998 in “Archives of Dermatology” Aromatherapy with certain essential oils is a safe and effective treatment for hair growth in alopecia areata patients.
December 2020 in “Jurnal Wiyata: Penelitian Sains dan Kesehatan” Aloe vera peel extract gel helps speed up the healing of minor burns in rabbits.