ALOPECIA: EXPLORING CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS AND THE PROMISING POTENTIAL OF HERBAL MEDICINE

Hair, a vital component of the human body, originates from the skin's ectoderm and acts as a protective appendage. It includes two types: terminal hair, which is dark and thick, and vellus.   Hair growth follows three cyclical phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Typically, 50–100 hairs are shed daily; excessive loss leads to a condition known as alopecia. Alopecia, characterized by hair loss, affects millions worldwide and presents in various forms, each with distinct etiologies and clinical manifestations. The primary types include androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and cicatricial alopecia. While numerous treatment options are available, ranging from topical applications like minoxidil and corticosteroids to systemic therapies such as finasteride and immunosuppressants, these often have limited efficacy and potential side effects. Therefore, the quest for more effective and safer treatments continues. Herbal medicine has emerged as a promising alternative, offering natural remedies with fewer side effects. Herbs such as ginseng, saw palmetto, rosemary, and peppermint essential oils have demonstrated potential in promoting hair growth and improving scalp health. These herbal treatments are valued for their holistic benefits and minimal adverse effects, making them an attractive option for many patients. Integrating herbal remedies with conventional therapies could provide a more comprehensive and personalized approach to managing alopecia. This review underscores the need for ongoing research into both conventional and herbal treatments to develop effective strategies for combating hair loss and improving patients' quality of life.