Ganoderma lucidum ethanolic extract for the treatment of androgenic alopecia in rats with testosterone-induced Baldness.

Background: Alopecia is a widespread hair loss condition affecting numerous individuals worldwide. This study aims to investigate the potential hair growth-promoting properties of a preparation containing an ethanolic extract of Ganoderma lucidum and its primary components in a model of testosterone-induced alopecia. Aim: The objective of this research is to assess the effects of Ganoderma lucidum extract on hair regeneration using a testosterone-induced alopecia model. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using five groups of rats: negative control group (n = 6), positive control group (n = 6), testosterone plus minoxidil 2% (n = 6), testosterone and ethanolic extract of Ganoderma lucidum extract (10 mg/kg) (n = 6), and testosterone and ethanolic extract of Ganoderma lucidum extract (15 mg/kg). To induce alopecia, subcutaneous testosterone (1 mg/kg SC) was administered daily to all groups except the negative control group for 21 consecutive days. After 21 days, Anagen/telogen (A/T) ratio and the number of follicles were measured and recorded. Results: The standard group, treated with minoxidil 2%, showed a higher anagen/telogen (A/T) ratio, follicular density, and hair length compared to the positive control group. The groups treated with ethanolic extract of Ganoderma lucidum at 10mg/kg and 15mg/kg displayed increased anagen/telogen ratio and improved hair follicle quantity and morphology compared to the positive control group. Furthermore, the group treated with 15mg/kg of the extract showed more favorable outcomes compared to the 10mg/kg group. These results were comparable to the effects of the commonly prescribed drug, Minoxidil 2%, used to promote hair growth in individuals with androgenetic alopecia. Conclusion: The preparation containing an ethanolic extract of Ganoderma lucidum, especially at a concentration of 15mg/kg, demonstrated significant hair growth-promoting effects in the testosterone-induced alopecia model. Our findings suggest the potential of Ganoderma lucidum extract as a possible treatment for alopecia and merit further exploration for therapeutic applications.