Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Hair greying is a common aspect of the natural ageing process. Although it is generally not considered a medical problem, its high prevalence can substantially impact emotional state due to aesthetic concerns. A growing body of research has demonstrated that natural products and their derivatives derived from plants possess advantages and potential in the treatment of hair greying. AIM OF THE STUDY: To review the last research progress in the treatment of hair greying by natural products and their derivatives, focusing on the target and mechanism of action of natural products and their derivatives and providing a reference for future clinical use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and CNKI) for studies published between January 2005 and June 2025. The research focused on the pathogenesis of hair greying and the use of natural products and their derivatives to prevent and treat it, using the keywords: "hair greying", "hair pigmentation", "white hair", "snow hair", "melanocyte stem cells" and "melanin". RESULTS: Account of natural products (e.g., Polygoni multiflori radix) and their derivatives (e.g., Epimedin B), are expected to treat hair greying due to their various qualities to regulate melanocyte stem cells, enhance melanin synthesis, or promote melanosome transport. Compared to oral administration, topical application represents a preferred approach for promoting hair pigmentation. CONCLUSIONS: We discussed and summarized the mechanism of natural products and derivatives in the treatment of hair greying, which provided a reference for future clinical use.