Formulation Development and Investigations on Therapeutic Potential of Nanogel from Beta Vulgaris L. Extract in Testosterone-Induced Alopecia

The study developed a nanogel from Beta vulgaris L. (beetroot) extract and tested its effectiveness in treating testosterone-induced alopecia in 24 male Swiss albino mice. The nanogel, prepared by ionic gelation method and incorporated in carbopol 934 gel, had a particle size of 274 nm. The extract contained quercetin and stigmasterol, with drug entrapment efficiency ranging from 56 to 85% for quercetin and 43-79% for stigmasterol. The nanogel was found to be stable and showed sustained release in vitro. The study found that a 5% Beta vulgaris hydroalcoholic extract nanogel showed significant hair growth initiation, decreased testosterone levels, increased total protein content, increased anagen/telogen ratio, and increased hair follicular density compared to the control group, suggesting its potential to treat testosterone-induced alopecia.