In 2014, Huo et al. tested galangin in a mouse model of vitiligo induced in C57BL/6 mice through the daily topical application of hydroquinone (2.5%) on shaved dorsal skin for 60 days. Thirty days after the final hydroquinone application, investigators began oral administration of galangin for 30 days. Hair grew back after treatment darker than the original color, with histologic analysis revealing that mice treated with galangin and the positive control 8-methoxypsoralen had an increased number of melanin-containing hair follicles, compared with untreated animals. In addition, galangin treatment was associated with significant increases in the number of cutaneous basal layer melanocytes and melanin-containing epidermal cells. Compared with controls, treatment with galangin and 8-methoxypsoralen led to increased serum levels of tyrosinase and decreased levels of malondialdehyde and lower cholinesterase activity. Galangin and 8-methoxypsoralen use also increased the expression of tyrosinase protein in treated skin. The investigators concluded that galangin improved hydroquinone-induced vitiligo in mice and warrants further study as a potential vitiligo treatment in humans (Phytother. Res. 2014 28:1533-8).
Conclusion
Alpinia officinarum is one of many botanical agents with a long history of applications in traditional folk medicine, particularly in Asia. There is a relative paucity of evidence regarding the dermatologic applications of this plant, but recent findings support continued research into its various potential cutaneous benefits, with particular focus on the main active ingredient galangin.
Dr. Baumann is chief executive officer of the Baumann Cosmetic & Research Institute in the Design District in Miami. She founded the Cosmetic Dermatology Center at the University of Miami in 1997. Dr. Baumann wrote the textbook “Cosmetic Dermatology: Principles and Practice” (New York: McGraw-Hill, 2002), and a book for consumers, “The Skin Type Solution” (New York: Bantam Dell, 2006). She has contributed to the Cosmeceutical Critique column in Dermatology News since January 2001. Her latest book, “Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients,” was published in November 2014. Dr. Baumann has received funding for clinical grants from Allergan, Aveeno, Avon Products, Evolus, Galderma, GlaxoSmithKline, Kythera, Mary Kay, Medicis Pharmaceuticals, Neutrogena, Philosophy,Topix Pharmaceuticals, and Unilever.