A Narrowed Look Into Plant-Derived Testosterone 5α-Reductase Inhibitors for Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most prevalent cause of hair loss in men and women, resulting from a combination of genetic susceptibility and androgen hormones. Increased activity of testosterone 5α-reductase in hair follicles leads to increased synthesis of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT's destructive effect on hair follicles is one of the leading reasons for hair loss. Conventional pharmacotherapeutic treatments, e.g. finasteride and minoxidil, are frequently accompanied by adverse effects and may be ineffective for certain people. Recent years have seen a rise in research on plant-derived testosterone 5α-reductase enzyme inhibitors. These herbal substances produced by various plant extracts and natural ingredients show promise in terms of fewer side effects and improved tolerability. This mini review investigates herbal testosterone 5α-reductase inhibitors for treatment AGA.