Phytotherapeutic Alternatives to the Use of Finasteride and Dutasteride as 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review

The review discusses the use of phytotherapeutic alternatives to finasteride and dutasteride in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. The current primary treatments, finasteride and dutasteride, inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into DHT, a contributor to hair loss. However, these treatments have potential side effects, including sexual dysfunction and psychological disorders. The review highlights several plant-based products, such as Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), Ginseng (Panax ginseng), Green tea (Camellia sinensis), and Pumpkin seed oil (Cucurbita pepo), which have shown antiandrogenic effects and beneficial impacts in treating androgenetic alopecia without significant side effects. These could serve as viable alternatives to finasteride and dutasteride.