Screening of Anti-Hair Loss Plant Raw Materials Based on Reverse Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation

The study explores the anti-hair loss potential of plant extracts, including licorice, salvia miltiorrhiza, mulberry leaf, ephedra, and curcumae radix, using reverse network pharmacology and cell experiments. These extracts showed no cytotoxicity on human dermal papilla cells and enhanced markers associated with hair growth, such as ALP and VEGF, while inhibiting factors like TGF-β1 and IL-6 that contribute to hair loss. The extracts also activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, crucial for hair follicle growth. Although promising, the findings are limited to cellular observations, suggesting the need for further research. The study underscores the potential of these plant materials as safe and effective alternatives for hair loss treatment.