A Systematic Review of Anti-Aging Effects of 23 Traditional Chinese Medicines
May 2021
in “
Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
”
TLDR Some traditional Chinese medicines may have anti-aging benefits and could help with hair growth, but more research is needed.
The 2021 systematic review evaluated the anti-aging effects of 23 traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) based on 212 selected papers. The TCMs, including Ganoderma lucidum, Panax ginseng, and Lycium barbarum, showed potential anti-aging effects due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. They also enhanced DNA repair and telomerase activity, crucial for cell longevity. The review found that these medicines could be developed as anti-aging drugs or used in the medical cosmetology industry. However, the authors emphasized the need for more rigorous clinical trials to confirm these effects and establish safe dosage guidelines. Notably, Plumbago zeylanica extract was found to enhance the growth of hair follicle dermal papilla cells, suggesting potential benefits for hair growth.
