Potential Effects of Plumbago europaea Root Extract on Alopecia: An Experimental Rat Study

Introduction: Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common condition affecting people worldwide. Plumbago zeylanica has been reported to have promising effects on hair growth. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of P. europaea root extract for the treatment of induced alopecia in a rat model. Methods: A controlled experimental pathology study was conducted on a sample of three Sprague- Dawley adult rats with induced alopecia through injections of the chemotherapeutic drug cyclophosphamide. Three concentrations of the root extracts of P. europaea were applied topically to the affected area every two to three days for 11 days. The potential to enhance hair growth was evaluated by assessing histomorphological changes in macroscopic and microscopic examinations of skin samples. Results: The hair follicles and hair shaft diameters showed a dose-dependent effect, with the 100% extract concentration showing a significant positive effect compared to the natural-based hair growth control and the 25% extract concentration (P-value= 0.013, P-value= 0.039, respectively). Moreover, the extract demonstrated a positive effect on the number of hair follicles only at high concentrations, and on the diameter of the hair shaft at concentrations equal to 50% of root extract or higher. Discussion: P. europaea extract promotes the growth of hair by increasing the size and quality of hair follicles. Saponins, phenolics, and antioxidants are examples of bioactive substances found in plant species that promote follicle growth and reduce hair loss. Clinical evidence shows that plant-based bioactives, notably exosome-rich extracts, can significantly increase hair density and thickness in patients with alopecia. conclusion: Conclusion: Topical application of highly concentrated (100%) P. europaea root extract enhanced hair growth in three ways: increasing the number of hair follicles, hair shaft diameter, and hair length. This novel finding suggests that the P. europaea root extract is a promising agent for the treatment of alopecia. Conclusion: Topical application of highly concentrated (100%) P. europaea root extract enhanced hair growth in three ways: increasing the number of hair follicles, enhancing hair shaft diameter, and stimulating hair length. This novel finding suggests that the P. europaea root extract is a promising agent for the treatment of alopecia.