Evaluation of the effectiveness of topical formulation of Falcaria vulgaris extract in patients with vitiligo

Abstract

Introduction: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by progressive depigmentation of the skin, which can significantly impact patients' psychological well-being and quality of life. Despite various treatment options, effective and safe therapies remain limited. Falcaria vulgaris, a medicinal plant documented in traditional Iranian medicine, has been proposed as a potential therapeutic agent for vitiligo.Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Falcaria vulgaris extract 3% cream in comparison with betamethasone valerate 0.1% cream in patients with stable nonsegmental vitiligo.Materials and Methods: In this randomized, left–right comparative clinical trial, 36 patients with bilateral nonsegmental vitiligo were enrolled at the dermatology clinic of Sina Hospital, Tabriz, Iran. Each patient applied Falcaria vulgaris 3% cream to one side of the body and betamethasone valerate 0.1% cream to the contralateral side, once daily, for 12 weeks. Treatment efficacy was assessed using the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Additionally, the Vitiligo Noticeability Score (VNS) and percentage of repigmentation were evaluated at the end of the study. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.Results: Intragroup analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in VASI scores in both treatment sides after 12 weeks (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding VASI reduction, percentage of repigmentation, or VNS. Reported adverse effects were mild and transient, including burning, pruritus, and dryness at the application site.Discussion: Daily application of Falcaria vulgaris 3% cream demonstrated comparable efficacy to betamethasone valerate 0.1% cream, suggesting its potential as a safe and effective herbal alternative in the treatment of vitiligo