Potential Remedial Effects of <i>Solanum nigrum</i> Berries on Alopecia: An <i>In Vivo</i> Study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the ability of Solanum nigrum (S. nigrum) to stimulate hair growth. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of two different extracts named methanol and petroleum ether from S. nigrum when applied topically. Hair loss was induced in Swiss albino rats by subcutaneously administering testosterone for 21 days. The extract was applied at the same time to assess its ability to prevent hair loss, and various measures such as follicle density, anagen/telogen (A/T) ratio, and skin section histology were monitored. Finasteride solution was used as a standard for topical application. The group treated with petroleum ether extract of S. nigrum showed noticeable hair regrowth, evidenced by increased (A/T) ratio, follicle density, and positive results in skin sections. The study’s findings suggest that the petroleum ether extract derived from S. nigrum shows potential in treating hair loss induced by testosterone in experimental animals.