Bakuchi
Psoralea corylifolia contains psoralen (a furocoumarin that intercalates DNA upon UV exposure, used in PUVA therapy) and bakuchiol (a meroterpene phenol with retinol-like activity). A double-blind RCT (n=44) found 0.5% bakuchiol cream comparable to 0.5% retinol for reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation after 12 weeks, with significantly better tolerability (less scaling/stinging). Bakuchiol shows antioxidant effects, increases collagen (COL1A1, COL7A1), and enhances wound healing. For vitiligo, psoralen-containing preparations have traditional use and case study support, but robust RCT evidence is lacking. Preclinical data suggests bone-protective effects via prenylated isoflavones and catecholamine-modulating antidepressant properties.
Quick Answer
What it is
Psoralea corylifolia contains psoralen (a furocoumarin that intercalates DNA upon UV exposure, used in PUVA therapy) and bakuchiol (a meroterpene phenol with retinol-like activity). A double-blind RCT (n=44) found 0.5% bakuchiol cream comparable to 0.5% retinol for reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation after 12 weeks, with significantly better tolerability (less scaling/stinging).
Key findings
- Grade B: Wrinkle Surface Area (Skin Health)
- Grade B: Hyperpigmentation (Skin Health)
- Grade B: Tolerability (Scaling/Stinging) (Skin Health)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Bakuchi
Quick Facts: Bakuchi
- Best Evidence:Grade B
- Conditions Studied:3
- Research Outcomes:5
- Grade B Findings:3
- Key Effect:Skin Health
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (12)
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