Investigation on effect of a natural topical formulation containing Saw palmetto, Rosmarinus officinalis and Olea europaea in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia

Abstract

Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common type of hair loss, is caused by the miniaturization of androgen-sensitive hair follicles. FDA-approved drugs for AGA have many side effects. It has been demonstrated that herbal compounds have many benefits, including patient compliance, lower side effects, and have a more mechanism of action in the treatment of AGA. Aim: Evaluation the efficacy of topical herbal solution in patients with AGA and comparison with 5% minoxidil Materials and Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, clinical trial study, 24 male volunteers (aged 23–43 years, mean 33/04 5/812) with AGA were selected. Participants were randomly classified (1:1) into two groups. The first group received 5% minoxidil topical solution (MTS) and the second group received 5% minoxidil plus the topical herbal solution (MTS+THS). To determine efficacy, the hair diameter was measured at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks. Results: After 24 weeks of therapy, the MTS+THS group was significantly superior to the MTS group in terms of change from baseline in hair diameter and treatment benefit. At week 24 compared to baseline, the mean hair diameter of the MTS + THS group increased compared to the MTS group (p=0/005) and hair loss decreased in MTS + THS group versus MTS group (p=0/001). The differences between the two groups were statistically significant. There were no serious adverse events during and after the study. Conclusion: This herbal solution can be a substitute either for patients who haven’t got any efficacy with standard medications or are unable to tolerate their side effects. This herbal solution for the first time covers all four major causes of AGA.