Evaluation of Cacumen Platycladi Extract for Hair Loss Prevention: Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Clinical Application

Hair loss is a prevalent condition with various causes, and effective treatments are in high demand. Cacumen Platycladi (Platycladus orientalisleaves), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been historically used to prevent hair loss. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanisms of Cacumen Platycladi extract (CPE) in preventing hair loss. Using a gradient extraction method with 1,3-butanediol, ethanol, and water, bioactive compounds like quercitrin, myricetin, and myricitrin were enriched and identified via Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). The results showed that CPE inhibited 5α-reductase activity, enhanced the antioxidant capacity of human dermal papilla cells (HDPCs), and upregulated the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway to promote vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and collagen type XVII (COL17) expression. A 12-week clinical trial demonstrated that CPE significantly reduced hair loss and increased local hair density compared to placebo, with no adverse effects. These findings support the potential of CPE as a safe and effective natural alternative for hair loss prevention.