Phytotherapeutics for the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Narrative Review

This narrative review highlights the potential of phytotherapy as an alternative treatment for androgenetic alopecia, a genetic condition causing progressive hair loss. Conventional treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are effective but often have significant side effects, leading to poor adherence. The review analyzed studies from 2018 to 2023 and found promising evidence for the use of phytotherapeutics such as Serenoa repens (saw palmetto), Camellia sinensis (green tea), Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin seed), and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary). These natural products work by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, reducing dihydrotestosterone, and providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, improving scalp blood circulation. Notably, rosemary oil showed similar efficacy to minoxidil in hair follicle regeneration. The findings suggest that phytotherapeutics offer an effective and safer approach to managing androgenetic alopecia, minimizing hair loss progression without the adverse effects of conventional treatments. However, further studies are needed to evaluate standardized extracts and better define dosage for safety and efficacy.