Chamberbitter (P.urinaria)
Chamberbitter (Phyllanthus urinaria) is a small annual herb native to Asia. It has elliptic leaves and tiny yellow-green flowers. The name comes from its very bitter taste. In traditional medicine, chamberbitter is used to make teas, extracts, and powders. But it is not commonly known in Western medicine.
The Phyllanthus family comprises numerous distinct varieties, making it essential to accurately identify them by their precise scientific names.
Is it effective against hair loss?
Currently, our knowledge and scientific research on the application of topical Chamberbitter for addressing hair loss are quite limited.
Chamberbitter extract contains numerous components, the concentration of which can vary based on various factors :
- Phyllanthin
- Hypophyllanthin
- Niranthin
- Quercetin
- Ellagic acid
- Gallic acid
- Geraniin
- Corilagin
- Rutin
- Ursolic acid
- Beta-sitosterol
- Alkaloids
Anti-androgen properties
In a 2018 study, the scientists screened Euphorbiaceae plant extracts using an anti-5α-reductase assay.
Among the samples tested, the extract of Phyllanthus urinaria (Chamberbitter) showed the most potent activity with 24.3% and 64.6% inhibition at 50 and 200 µg/mL against the enzyme, respectively. The extract also suppressed the androgen activity of dihydrotestosterone in the LNCaP cell line.
These results indicate that the extract of P. urinaria may be a multi-potent agent for androgen-derived alopecia. They tested its activity on a hair regrowth model using mice. The extract of P. urinaria showed hair regrowth activity.
This suggests that applying Chamberbitter topically might be a promising approach to reduce DHT levels and potentially offer a practical solution for androgenetic alopecia.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a natural androgenic hormone synthesized by our bodies from testosterone in various tissues. This conversion is mediated by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase (5aR).
DHT is a significant factor in androgenetic alopecia, as it plays a role in the inflammatory process occurring in the scalps of individuals genetically predisposed to hair loss. This process leads to the gradual thinning of hair, a phenomenon known as miniaturization. Therefore, reducing the formation of DHT is believed to potentially reduce hair loss.
Closing thoughts and verdict
To date, there isn’t enough research on Chamberbitter (P. urinaria) to definitively claim its effectiveness in combating hair loss. However, the only available study on this plant shows promise, indicating that it may reduce DHT levels by inhibiting 5aR.
Nonetheless, I would recommend considering treatments with established efficacy until more in-depth studies become available.
Precautions & side effects
- Allergies: if you have known allergies to similar plant-based extracts or components, exercise caution when using Japanese ramie extract. Especially to the family of nettles.
- Skin irritation: In some cases, topical application of Japanese ramie extract may cause skin irritation, redness, or itching. Perform a patch test before using it extensively on your skin.
- Gastrointestinal distress: Some individuals may experience stomach upset, diarrhea, or nausea when using Chamberbitter.