Parvizi MM, Hekmat M, Yousefi N, Javaheri R, Mehrzadeh A, Saki N. Clinical Trials Conducted on Herbal Remedies for the Treatment of Melasma: A Scoping Review.
J Cosmet Dermatol 2025;
24:e16741. [PMID:
39710951 PMCID:
PMC11837239 DOI:
10.1111/jocd.16741]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 11/22/2024] [Accepted: 12/05/2024] [Indexed: 12/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a common skin disorder characterized by acquired hyperpigmentation. Many patients with this condition prefer using herbal remedies instead of chemical agents. This study aims to review clinical trials conducted on the effectiveness of herbal remedies in treating melasma.
METHODS
In this scoping review, we searched the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, SID, and Magiran databases until August 2024. We designed the search strategy using MeSH database keywords "melanosis," "herbal medicine," "plant extracts," "complementary therapies," "traditional medicine," "Persian medicine," "clinical trials," and their Entry Terms. We then reviewed and summarized the relevant articles.
RESULTS
We found a total of 21 clinical trials examining the effectiveness of herbal remedies in treating melasma. The literature review revealed that licorice, rhubarb, a mixture of melon seed and chickpea, sorrel, Aloe vera leaf gel, parsley, tomato, fern, olive, pine bark, and Indian gooseberry had positive effects in treating melasma. Licorice is the most extensively studied herbal remedy for melasma treatment. Some patients who used licorice, rhubarb, and parsley experienced redness and skin allergies.
CONCLUSION
Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of herbal remedies in treating melasma. Further research, including clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, is necessary to assess the efficacy of herbal remedies and natural products, as well as their potential adverse effects.
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