VERNONIA ANTHELMINTICA (L.) WILLD IN THE TREATMENT OF VITILIGO: INSIGHTS FROM TRADITIONAL UYGHUR MEDICINE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

While a wide variety of treatment approaches and multiple hypotheses towards disease pathophysiology, vitiligo remains an enigma in medical science. Vernonia anthelmintica  (L.) Willd. (Kaliziri), a medicinal plant rooted in Traditional Uyghur Medicine (TUM), has been used to treat patients with vitiligo historically. Here, the review comprehensively discusses existing literature studies associated with Kaliziri, aiming to bridge ethnopharmacological knowledge with contemporary scientific insights into vitiligo and provide clues about priorities for its future application in vitiligo research and clinical studies. Achieved literature sources highlight a diverse phytochemical composition of Kaliziri, including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and alkaloids, which are associated with mechanisms of melanocyte protection and functions, such as stimulation of melanogenesis, immunomodulation, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory effects. Preliminary clinical data suggest potential repigmentation effects, although the quality and consistency of available studies remain limited. Major bottlenecks in clinical translation include the lack of standardized extracts, challenges in quality control, and regulatory barriers. Overall, Kaliziri shows promise as a complementary therapeutic approach for vitiligo, warranting further exploration through well-designed clinical trials and standardized preparation protocols to ensure efficacy, safety, and broader acceptance in modern dermatological practice.