Potential Herbal Therapy in Dermatology: A Review of Malaysian Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Abstract:: Dermatology is a medical aspect that revolves around the diseases of the skin. The incorporation of medicinal plants in the treatment of skin diseases has been widely used since ancient days. Malaysia is blessed with various plant species and rich biodiversity with tropical weather yearround. With the emerging use of medicinal plants in dermatology, more studies on their potential therapeutic effects need to be reviewed thoroughly. Thus, the purpose of this work is to critically review relevant publications on related pharmacological activities and potential use of Malaysian plants for dermatological purposes. The articles that were found related to the research field were retrieved from several online databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Hindawi, and ScienceDirect published from 2016 to 2022. The pharmacological activities that were commonly associated with the treatment of skin diseases include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and wound healing. Various phytochemical compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, and vitamins were found to contribute to the therapeutic potential of plant extracts against skin diseases. In conclusion, the understanding of the plant’s pharmacological activities is important to evaluate its therapeutic potential to be used against specific skin diseases. More reliable references are required to ensure safety and efficacy of medicinal plants in dermatology.