The Beneficial Effects of an Oriental Herbal Complex Supplement on Women’s Hair and Scalp Conditions: A 24-week, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study

Abstract

Purpose: Diet is an environmental factor with the potential to significantly influence body changes. Up to now, no study has investigated the effects of the black bean-licorice-biotae folium extract on humans. Therefore, in this study, we examined the effects of this extract on hair and scalp -with regard to total hair number, hair diameter, scalp moisture and sebum. Materials and Method: This study was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial with a 28 week duration. At the -4 week time point of test product intake, participants were enrolled according to criteria and underwent a washout period (4 weeks). At weeks 0, subjects were randomly assigned to one of two treatment regimens: (i) placebo product (4 capsules/day, 700 mg/capsule) or (ii) test product (4 capsules/day, 700 mg/capsule). At weeks 0 and 24, we performed a visual assessment, hair number count and hair diameter, scalp hydration level and sebum excretion level. Results: Expert assessment was positive for the test group. Although the effect on the hair density was not significant, it was positive. Additionally, the hair diameter in the test group significantly increased and significantly decreased in the placebo group. For scalp hydration, the effect was only positive. However, for sebum, the complex appeared to help sebum secretion decrease. There were no safety issues. Conclusion: This study shows that this oriental herbal complex supplement (a Black Bean (Glycine max), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch), and Biotae Folium (Thuja orientalis) mixture) is probably effective in improving hair and scalp conditions.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, G. uralensis, and G. inflata) and Their Constituents as Active Cosmeceutical Ingredients

“…Licoricidin blocked UV-A-induced photoaging acting as ROS scavenger. This activity is connected with the modulation of MMP-1 [68].…”

“…The beneficial effects of an oriental herbal supplement containing G. uralensis in addition to Glycine max, and Thuja orientalis were assessed on women's hair numbers, hair diameter, scalp moisture and sebum, and scalp conditions, finding a real benefit in improving hair and scalp conditions [68]. In addition, other formulations containing licorice showed beneficial effects as a remedy for hair fall [86,87].…”