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| - Last Updated on February 6, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
We came across an article on a website promoting the benefits of Gulmohar tree leaves. The article claims Gulmohar leaves can cure baldness. We did the fact check to term it as Mostly False.
The Claim
An article on a website called Herzindagi claims that Gulmohar tree leaves can cure baldness. It says, if one applies the paste of gulmohar leaves on their head, it can result in new hair growth.
Fact Check
Gulmohar, scientifically known as Delonix regia, is a vibrant tree commonly found in tropical regions. Its striking red flowers and lush green leaves make it a popular ornamental plant. But does it really have the ability to cure baldness and promote hair growth? Let’s find out!
What are the benefits of Gulmohar tree leaves?
Gulmohar leaves, along with other parts of the plant such as flowers, seeds, and bark, contain various medicinally active compounds. These include flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, sterols, beta-sitosterol, lupeol, tannins, carotenoids, and phenolic acids. Here are some of the reported benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic: The leaves have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. But the research is still preliminary, we need more to conclude the potential analgesic activity.
- Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Gulmohar leaves and other parts of the plant exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial activities.
- Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants, gulmohar leaves help neutralise free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Cardio-protective and Gastro-protective: The leaves have shown potential in protecting the heart and digestive system. The studies are still in their initial stages, mostly done on rats.
- Hepato-protective and Renal Benefits: Studies indicate that the leaves may improve liver and kidney functions without adverse side effects.
- Antidiabetic: Its methanol extract has the potential to lower the blood sugar levels. But this is also awaiting a human trial.
- Wound Healing: The leaves also have wound healing activity.
- Antiemetic: The methanolic extract of gulmohar leaves significantly reduces vomiting better than the standard drug chlorpromazine in chicks.
- Traditional Uses: In folk medicine, gulmohar leaves are used to treat conditions like constipation, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, pneumonia, malaria, and pain.
What are the likely risks of using Gulmohar tree leaves?
Gulmohar has many potential benefits. There are numerous proposed medicinal uses of a gulmohar tree which are still waiting to be tapped. While it may offer some health benefits, they also come with likely risks:
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might experience allergic reactions upon contact with or consumption of gulmohar leaves.
- Toxicity: Ingesting large quantities of gulmohar leaves can be toxic and lead to adverse health effects.
- Health Issues: Excessive or unsupervised long-term usage may lead to Asthma and Cardiovascular problems. The leaves and seeds have antifertility power (observed in rats). So if you want to conceive, avoid it. It is also harmful for breastfeeding mothers, young children and older people.
- Limited Research: There is limited scientific research on the safety and efficacy of gulmohar leaves for medicinal use. The existing research is mostly on animals or in vitro (lab studies). Also, the side effects or risks are not well documented. Thereby making it difficult to recommend them confidently.
Can Gulmohar tree leaves cure baldness?
No, not really. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Gulmohar leaves can cure baldness. They have several potential health benefits, but these do not include preventing or reversing hair loss. Most of the alleged benefits have been studied in animals as of now and we need further research in humans.
We connected with Dr Sachin Gupta, Dermatologist, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, for his opinion on Gulmohar tree leaves. He says, “I always tell my patients to be careful with these kinds of claims. There’s no scientific evidence that Gulmohar leaves can cure baldness. Hair loss is a complicated issue influenced by your genes, hormones, lifestyle and external environment. At home practices like hair oil massage and healthy diet may support your hair health. But home remedies may not offer a cure for hair loss, especially in severe cases. Treatments that really work usually include medications like minoxidil or finasteride, procedures like PRP and hair transplant for late stages.”
What are the consequences of using home remedies for baldness?
Using unproven remedies can delay effective treatment and may sometimes lead to adverse reactions. If you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend proper treatments based on your specific condition.
Why does baldness happen?
Baldness is the loss or absence of hair. It is usually most noticeable on the scalp. However, it can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows. Baldness, or alopecia, can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Genetics: The most common cause of baldness is androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition that affects both males and females.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving androgens, can lead to hair loss.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disease, alopecia areata, and scalp infections can cause hair loss.
- Medications: Certain medications, including those for cancer, arthritis, depression, and heart problems, can lead to hair loss as a side effect.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and protein can contribute to hair thinning and loss.
- Ageing: Progressing age is also one of the reasons for hair loss or baldness.
- Environmental Factors: Quality of water, air and excessive weather conditions, along with sun exposure affects your hair and may cause hair thinning.
- Social Habits: Smoking and drug abuse increases the risk of hair loss. On the other hand, a moderate consumption of alcohol may have a positive effect on hair growth. But the research is very limited and hence, we want to warn everyone that this should not serve as your cue to start drinking.
Are there natural remedies for baldness?
Some natural remedies, such as oils, scalp massages, and dietary supplements, support hair health. There are also claims that Ayurvedic remedies can cure all types of baldness. However, these are not actual cures. Their effectiveness varies, and they cannot replace medically proven treatments.
What are the medically-proven treatments for baldness?
Medically-proven treatments include topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, and hair transplantation. These treatments are scientifically sound and effective for many individuals. Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hair treatments can support overall hair health and possibly reduce hair loss.
You should see a doctor if you notice sudden, patchy hair loss, if your hair is falling out in clumps, or if you experience scalp pain or itching. A doctor can help diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.
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