Dermatological effects of Pistacia species: A systematic review

Abstract

Different parts of Pistacia species are traditionally used to treat various skin problems. Traditional experiences can be a good basis for research on the therapeutic effects of medicinal plants. The active compounds of plants can be identified and used in different disorders in an innovative way. There are several studies that have evaluated the Pistacia species for dermatological disorders. However, despite the valuable effects of the Pistacia species on skin disease, there is no comprehensive review of the dermal effects of these plants. So, in this study, current evidence regarding the dermatological effect of the Pistacia species has been reviewed. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for in vivo, in vitro, and clinical studies that examined dermatological effects of Pistacia species. According to the review, most of the evidence of dermatological effects in the Pistacia genus comes from preliminary studies on wound healing, cutaneous leishmaniasis, inflammation caused by UV rays and photo-protection, hyperpigmentation disorders, and atopic dermatitis. The Pistacia genus was implicated in 3 clinical studies and 30 in vivo/in vitro studies showing several mechanisms that go beyond its dermatological effects. The traditional medicinal effects of these herbs are supported by some scientific evidence. The potential protective/therapeutic effects of these herbs need to be studied further so that they can be considered as possible future candidates for use in skin care products.

Keywords: Herbal medicine, Natural products, Pistacia, Skin disorders, Traditional Persian medicine, Wound