Abstract

A REVIEW ON: PUMPKIN SEED OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH IN MEN WITH ANDROGENIC ALOPECIA

Sankhanil Pandit, Ahana Biswas, Prabu M. and Dr. Kavitha P. N.*

ABSTRACT

Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seed oil (PSO) is a common product in Slovenia, Hungary, and Austria and is considered as a herbal remedy used to treat several health conditions. PSO mainly consists of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and was reported to improve hair growth in male pattern hair loss. Pumpkin seed oil has been shown to block the action of 5-α reductase and achieve anti-androgenic effects. The randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study on mice was designed to investigate the effectiveness, efficacy, and tolerability of PSO for the treatment of male pattern hair loss and mild androgenic alopecia. The USA FDA approved topical minoxidil and oral finasteride use to treat AGA. But due to its long-term side effects physicians may also suggest natural oils for lesser or no side effects and pumpkin seed oil is one of these. This review aims to critically discuss the topical applications of pumpkin seed oil and also offer relevant information on PSO.

Keywords: anti-androgenic, 5-? reductase, androgenic alopecia, minoxidil, finasteride.