A review on naturopathic effect of Elaeocarpus serratus leaves application for seborrheic dermatitis

Abstract

Elaeocarpus serratus is called Ceylon olive/ Veralu in Sri Lanka. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions distributing across South Asia and East Africa. In native naturopathic medicine, Elaeocarpus serratus leaves have been used for several medicinal preparations including skin diseases like seborrheic dermatitis. Native Sri Lankans uses the decoct ion, boiled water or the pastes of these leaves externally over the scalp to reduce the seborrheic dermatitis condition. Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory scalp disease that occurs with the disruption of the skin’s microbiota of the scalp. This condition occurs in infants and in adults as two variants. It may appear on scalp, face, chest, and body folds. Primary and secondary data were collected using scientific sources, previously published books, journals, and research articles, authentic Ayurvedic texts and records. Data was analysed revealing the therapeutic effects of Elaeocarpus serratus leaves applications for seborrheic dermatitis. Data revealed that considering the symptoms of the seborrheic dermatitis, it is associated with Vata, Pitta dosa vitiations. The bioactive phytochemicals like flavonoids, fatty acids, myricitrin present in Elaeocarpus serratus contributes the medicinal properties and the pharmacological properties like anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antioxidant activities, reduce the seborrheic dermatitis condition. According to the Ayurveda perspective, Elaeocarpus serratus leaves contain the properties to effectively manage the seborrheic dermatitis. Further clinical investigations and analysis are required to conclude the percentages of efficacy.