Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Vitiligo
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Alpha-Lipoic Acid | Refer to label instructions |  [2 stars] In one study, supplementing with a combination of antioxidants including alpha-lipoic acid increased the effectiveness of ultraviolet light therapy.
|
Folic Acid | Refer to label instructions | [2 stars] Studies have shown folic acid to be effective at skin repigmentation in people with vitiligo. |
Ginkgo | 120 mg daily of a standardized extract | [2 stars] Taking ginkgo may help improve repigmentation of skin. |
Khella | 120 to 160 mg of a khellin herbal extract daily | [2 stars] Supplementing with khella may increase the sun sensitivity of pigmenting skin cells. |
Phenylalanine | 50 mg daily per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight, with ultraviolet light exposure | [2 stars] L-phenylalanine, in conjunction with ultraviolet light exposure, may improve repigmentation of skin. |
Picrorhiza | 400 and 1,500 mg of powdered rhizome | [2 stars] In one trial, picrorhiza, in combination with the drug methoxsalen and sun exposure, speeded recovery in people with vitiligo. |
Vitamin B12 | Refer to label instructions | [2 stars] Studies have shown vitamin B12 to be effective at skin repigmentation in people with vitiligo. |
Betaine Hydrochloride | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Lack of stomach acid may play a role in vitiligo. Supplementing with betaine HCL may help repigment the skin. |
PABA | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] PABA, a compound commonly found in B-complex vitamins, has been shown to repigment skin affected by vitiligo. |
Vitamin B-Complex | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] PABA, a compound commonly found in B-complex vitamins, has been shown to repigment skin affected by vitiligo. |
Vitamin C | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Vitamin C has been shown to be effective at skin repigmentation in people with vitiligo. |
Vitamin D | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] When used in combination with sun exposure, a form of vitamin D called calcipotriol may be effective in stimulating repigmentation in children with vitiligo. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.