Khulanjaan (Alpinia galanga): A novel herb for Melasma management

Melasma is a common skin ailment that affects young women especially during pregnancy and at menopause. It is more common in Asian and Hispanic women. Studies have found that it affects about 0.25-4% of the population in South East Asia. It is characterized by symmetrical gray to brown hyperpigmented lesions over sun exposed areas of the skin and is associated with substantial psychological impacts. The management of melasma is challenging and requires a long term treatment. Although various treatment modalities including topical and systemic are available viz, Azeilic acid, Kojic acid, Glycolic acid, HQ, Retinoids, Topical steroids, Mequinol, Arbutin and Glutathione, but, prolonged treatment may lead to various noxious effects. So, there has always been search for safer alternatives. Herbs are a better option. Plant products have been used for medicinal purpose long before people could write. Various herbal preparations have been tried for treatment of melasma. These have been found to be safe and effective. The present review aims at the management of melasma with a well known herb of Unani system of medicine i.e., Khulanjaan (Alpinia galanga) and summarizes the current pharmacological activities, major bio actives, reported mechanisms of action and its possible anti melasma activity. It is considered a safe herbal medicine with fewer side effects.