A Comprehensive Review of Biochemical Factors in Herbs and Their Constituent Compounds in Experimental Studies on Alopecia

April 2020 in “ Journal of Ethnopharmacology ”

Eun Chai Cho, Kyuseok Kim

Studysummary This review assessed experimental studies on herbs used for alopecia, identifying potential mechanisms involving hair cycle management and keratinocyte processes, but highlighted a need for improved evidence on quality control and toxicity of these herbal treatments. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The document is a comprehensive review of experimental studies on the effects of herbs and their compounds on alopecia, examining their potential mechanisms of action in relation to the hair cell cycle. It includes 73 studies, with various in vivo and in vitro models, primarily using C57BL/6 mice and human dermal papilla cells. The review found that herbs can manage the hair cycle, keratinocyte proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, hormones, and inflammation, potentially prolonging the anagen phase, shortening the telogen to anagen transition, and inhibiting premature catagen phase. However, it also highlighted the need for better evidence regarding quality control, taxonomy, and toxicology to ensure the efficacy and safety of these treatments. The document concludes that while herbal treatments show promise, further evidence development is necessary. It also notes the importance of accurate taxonomy and comprehensive toxicological data in herbal treatment studies for alopecia.

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