In Ayurveda, bakuchi is used in Twaka dosha (skin disease), Kusta (leprosy Sweta kusta (leukoderma). Shwitra (vitiligo) in various classical texts. The compounds obtained from plants exhibit activity against various skin diseases. Psoralen and isopsoralen assist in the production of 

melanin by transforming dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in the presence of sunlight. Therefore, it helps in treating vitiligo, leprosy and psoriasis. Psoralen has been found effective for the treatment of psoriasis and alopecia areata when used alone. (Saurabh Singh, 2022). It is a promising agent in anti‐acne formulations due to the presence of phenolic compounds Bakuchiol. It proved safe and non‐irritant and can be used for more extended periods of the day because it showed no irritation and is non‐sensitized. A study concluded that this plant could be effectively used to treat eczema.  (Fiaz Alam, 2017 )

Besides these activities, Bakuchi (P. corylifolia) has antiaging, pesticidal, anti-diabetic, anti-hypercholesterolemic, and anti-asthma activity. Also, this plant is effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease. (Chudzińska, 2022)

It possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antioxidant activities. Research proved that formulations containing bakuchiol combined with other active substances, such as ginkgo biloba leaf extract and mannitol, were tested in a two-month clinical study on 111 participants. Those who used the cream with active substances showed a reduction in the intensity of seborrhea and alleviation of inflammation. Finally, it was concluded that the reduction of inflammation was probably caused by the anti-inflammatory & antibacterial properties of bakuchiol against Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, involved in the formation of acne vulgaris. (Chudzińska, 2022)

The extraction process of bakuchiol from the Psoralea plant requires purification through liquid–liquid partitioning and column chromatography, followed by characterisation of the isolated product via nucleic magnetic resonance (NMR) and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GCMS). Based on the complex isolation process, bakuchiol may be extracted in a less pure form, such as the compound of bakuchiol as a racemic mixture, a whole plant P. corylifolia extract, or as bakuchi oil. (Najiba Afzal BS, 2023)

According to Ayurveda, Bakuchi oil was prepared in three different media, i.e., Kalka (paste), Taila and Drava (kwatha/milk etc.) in a ratio of 1:4:16, respectively. Bakuchi kwatha was prepared by taking one bakuchi seed part, and 16 parts of water were added to it. They were kept overnight (12 hours), and the next day the heating process was carried out at 95 – 1000C till the volume was reduced to 1/4^th. After filtering, Bakuchi kwatha was collected. For Bakuchi kalka, fine powder of Bakuchi was prepared with the help of mortar and pestle. After that, it was triturated with enough water, and kalka was prepared. For the oil process, Sesame oil was taken in a stainless-steel vessel and heated in medium heat till the moisture completely evaporated. Bakuchi kalka was added to it, followed by Bakuchi kwatha. Heating was continued maintaining the temperature between 95 – 1000C with occasional stirring to avoid sticking the paste in the bottom of the vessel. After a perfect duration, the oil was filtered with the help of a cotton cloth. This filtered Taila was known as Bakuchi oil. (Acharya MJ, 2015)

Melanocytes are highly dendritic & melanin-producing cells found in the epidermis skin. Tyrosinase is a key enzyme required for melanin synthesis. Keratinocytes are the cells where the storage of melanin takes place. Human keratinocytes are the cells that make up most of the epidermis. (Anupama Sharma, Biochemical evaluation of depigmentation in C57/BL6 mice and its treatment by Psoralea corylifolia. Linn (Bakuchi) seed oil and seed extracts, 2022)

Proper melanin synthesis in the melanocyte cell is essential for the standard colour of skin. (Kapil Patil, 2021)

Bakuchiol’s mechanism of action against hyperpigmentation is not fully known. However, a 2010 study in mice assumes that it involves inhibition of melanin biosynthesis and is concentration dependent. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Antioxidants have been used in dermatological and cosmetic products because of their property of scavenging and destroying aggressive oxidising agents and free radicals that are involved in various skin conditions. (Amit Kumar Rai, 2019)

As a potent drug, bakuchi oil possessed significant rejuvenating properties. Also, plants have a wide range of antioxidant compounds responsible for antioxidant activity. Several bioactive substances, such as bakuchiol, psoralen, isopsoralen, corylin, corylifolin, and psoralidin, were evaluated for their antioxidant potential. It possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antioxidant activities. (Saurabh Singh, 2022)

The research concluded that the reduction of inflammation of Acne skin was probably caused by the anti-inflammatory & antibacterial properties of bakuchiol against Propionibacterium acnes bacteria involved in the formation of acne vulgaris. (Chudzińska, 2022)

An experiment from 2019 of Bakuchi oil for skin anti-ageing was conducted on different skin types, thus proving that bakuchiol applied to oily skin does not cause comedogenic effects and is safe. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Skin ageing is a natural process progressing with age, during which the skin loses its elasticity and firmness and becomes thinner and wrinkled. There is also so-called skin photoaging, a consequence of long-term exposure to sunlight (UV).

A 2014 study in the United States found that bakuchiol, like vitamin A and its derivatives, affects gene expression. It has been proven to stimulate fibroblasts and cause an increase in collagen synthesis. These results confirmed the functionality of bakuchiol, which turned out to be like the effects produced using retinoids. Another Study from 2019 showed a significant decrease in the presence of wrinkles, an increase in skin firmness and a reduction in redness, and an overall improvement in skin condition by effects of the bakuchiol serum.  It was conducted on different skin types, thus proving that bakuchiol applied to oily skin does not cause comedogenic effects and is safe. (Chudzińska, 2022)

As per Ayurveda, Bakuchi removes dandruff and increases hair growth when applied externally because of its hair-beneficial properties. It also improves the quality and lustre of hair. It is also beneficial for grey hair. Bakuchi Churna helps to improve hair growth and controls dandruff when applied externally (Gayatri K. Bahatkar, 2021)

It is a critical plant within the Indian Ayurveda and Tamil Siddha systems of drugs and Chinese medicine. The seeds of this plant incorporate a variety of coumarins, including psoralen. Bakuchi extract contains some flavonoids, coumarins, and meroterpenes, as well as excessive concentrations of genistein. It is used to prevent hair loss. (Anju Goyal, 2022)

Melanocytes are highly dendritic & melanin-producing cells found in the epidermis skin. Tyrosinase is a key enzyme required for melanin synthesis. Keratinocytes are the cells where the storage of melanin takes place. Human keratinocytes are the cells that make up most of the epidermis. (Anupama Sharma, Biochemical evaluation of depigmentation in C57/BL6 mice and its treatment by Psoralea corylifolia. Linn (Bakuchi) seed oil and seed extracts, 2022)

Proper melanin synthesis in the melanocyte cell is essential for the standard colour of skin. (Kapil Patil, 2021).

Lacking melanin production makes it lighter than the natural skin colour, hypopigmentation. Vitiligo is an example of Hypo pigmentation.

(Anupama Sharma, Biochemical evaluation of depigmentation in C57/BL6 mice and its treatment by Psoralea corylifolia. Linn (Bakuchi) seed oil and seed extracts, 2022)

Clinicians also recommend Psoralen, but the mode of action inside the body has yet to be discovered. The seeds are more effective than the psoralen (active component). Other chemical components of Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia Linn.) having potent antioxidant potential will also be studied for better results. The present study is designed by orally providing the seed extract of Bakuchi with seed powder and topically seed oil without UV exposure only in the presence of sunlight. No sores, inflammation or uneasiness was observed in the study samples due to increased antioxidant potential. Increased antioxidant potential played a significant role in the regeneration of melanocytes.  (Anupama Sharma, 2022)(Anupama Sharma, Biochemical evaluation of depigmentation in C57/BL6 mice and its treatment by Psoralea corylifolia. Linn (Bakuchi) seed oil and seed extracts, 2022)

In everyday life, more and more attention is required to the origin of raw materials for daily products. They must be natural, ecological and have minor environmental interference. For this reason, many cosmetic companies are trying to replace synthetic ingredients with those from nature. One such synthetic ingredient is retinol, which belongs to the family of retinoids – vitamin A derivatives. Its primary function is to improve skin conditions, anti-acne and anti-wrinkle. Despite its many advantages, retinol also has many limitations. One may be bakuchiol, which has shown similar effects to retinol in clinical trials. Bakuchiol is a natural substance extracted from the Bakuchi plant. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Bakuchiol is the natural alternative to vitamin A, and thus is the so-called “bio retinol” since it helps to provide the same benefits but with fewer harmful side effects. It is a terpene phenol isolated in 1966 from bakuchi seeds and belongs to a significant group of compounds in the class of natural products referred to as meroterpenoids. The seeds have been used to treat psoriasis, leucoderma, leprosy, acne, and inflammatory skin diseases. Pure bakuchiol has been reported to protect squalene and many skin lipids from oxidation due to its excellent antioxidant activity. Furthermore, it possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-tumour, and hepatoprotective. (Agnieszka Lewińska, 2021) It has been proven to stimulate fibroblasts and cause an increase in collagen synthesis. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Retinoids were first studied in the early 20th century. Retinoids refer to vitamin A derivatives characterised by similar biological activity and structural formula. The most active one is all-trans-retinol, which chemically belongs to alcohol. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Retinol is commercially produced and administered as esters, such as retinyl acetate, palmitate, and retinoic acid. It should be noted that both vitamin A/retinol derivatives have been suggested to be irritating, skin-affecting, and cancer-preventative agents, especially when combined with sunlight.(Agnieszka Lewińska, 2021). Retinol and its derivatives have several clinically proven properties, such as an anti-wrinkle effect, stimulation of collagen synthesis, anti-acne activity and removal of skin discolouration. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Despite many superlatives, retinoids also have several side effects, so people with sensitive skin or pregnant women cannot use them. In addition, using vitamin A and its derivatives requires building up skin tolerance to increase concentrations and measures to reduce side effects such as redness or itching of the skin. Another significant limitation is the low photostability of retinoids, which makes them not recommended for use in summer. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Bakuchiol is a relatively new substance that became popular several years ago for its skincare properties. Despite the differences in its chemical structure, it was quickly compared to the well-known vitamin A and its derivatives. The advantage of bakuchiol is its effective, clinically proven anti-wrinkle effect and its negligible side effects and lack of limitations depending on the season or concentration. (Chudzińska, 2022)

Leucoderma- Oral therapy is combined with topical application on the lesions of leucoderma. 

Leprosy- Butter mixed with Bakuchi powder and buttermilk should be ingested to eradicate all types of kushtha.

Skin aliments- Bakuchi seed oil is used for the treatment.

Skin disorders/diseases- Bakuchi seed extracts have been used to treat skin-related problems such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, boils, skin eruptions, scabies & ringworm. 

• It is usually consumed after purification. Non-purified Bakuchi may create severe side effects like nausea and vomiting.
• It cannot be used undiluted and in high doses on the skin. Otherwise, it can cause severe skin infections, like skin discolouration, allergies and rashes.
• Bakuchi should be taken at the recommended dose and particular duration by Doctor’s recommendation since high doses and prolonged uses cause severe hyperacidity and gastritis.
• Bakuchi should be used only under medical supervision during pregnancy, breastfeeding females and children.
• Bakuchi has a hot potency, so it should not be used on sensitive skin.
• Bakuchi seed paste should be used with milk, rose water or any cooling substance if the patient’s skin is hypersensitive since it is potency.
• Bakuchi oil also can cause mild skin irritation and a burning sensation when applied externally. Due to excess use of Bakuchi, it may cause hepatotoxicity.
• Some products like curd, pickles, fish etc., should be avoided in case of vitiligo treatment.

In overuse, Bakuchi has been associated with rapid breathing, dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, and vomiting. It is associated with Hematemesis, loss of consciousness and even coma in severe overdose cases. Various side effects such as renal complications, blistering, mental depression, dermatitis, loose motions, annoyance and sleeplessness have been reported. Prolonged therapy is also reported to affect the immune system, eyes and liver.

                                                              (Gayatri K. Bahatkar, 2021)

1. How does bakuchiol compare with retinol?

Bakuchiol is a relatively new substance derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant that became popular several years ago for its skincare properties. Despite the differences in its chemical structure, it was quickly compared to the well-known vitamin A and its derivatives which provides anti-ageing & anti-acne benefits to the skin. However, it has some limitations & side effects. The advantage of bakuchiol is its clinically proven anti-wrinkle & anti-acne effects and its negligible side effects and lack of limitations depending on the season or concentration. 

2. What are the skin-care benefits of bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, may help address signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve tone and texture. Moreover, it possesses Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory & Antibacterial properties which have been proven to reduce and control all skin-related problems and help to promote natural colour complexion and normalise individual skin pigmentation.

3. Can you mix bakuchiol with vitamin C?

Bakuchiol is suitable for all skin types: dry, sensitive, oily and combination. It is a gentle solution for anyone wanting anti-ageing results without irritation. It can be used with vitamin C and acids in serum and creams.

4. Is Bakuchiol good for acne?

Yes, Bakuchiol is good for Acne.

5. Can you use Bakuchiol every day?

Yes, you can use Bakuchiol every day.  However, whenever you feel itchiness, redness, and irritation on the skin, consult a doctor or decrease the number of days of oil application.

6. How can Bakuchi (Babchi) seed oil be applied to the face and body?

Bakuchi seed oil can be applied to the face and body in combination with coconut oil …

• Take a few drops of Bakuchi oil (as per your requirement)
• Add an equal quantity of coconut oil to it.
• Apply it on the face and body.

7. How should Bakuchi be used to treat vitiligo or Leucoderma?

In vivo, evaluations and visual surveys indicated that the seed powder of Bakuchi exhibits proven efficacy compared to control in pigmenting the white patches of vitiligo skin on the patient’s forearm and face. Despite the risky and expensive multiple regimens involving oral administration, there is demand for safer, more economical, and more efficacious topical natural remedies than monotherapy. Therefore, Bakuchi offers a possible solution to the problem of small circular white lesions of vitiligo. It also helps to remove toxins from the skin and revitalises the area.

After applying its paste, it improves the colour of the skin. Bakuchi shows visible skin colour and complexion changes. The darker skin area steadily covers all white patches by helping shrinks the white area.

8. Can Bakuchi be used for respiratory diseases?

Bakuchi is also used for respiratory health. Oil is responsible for accumulating phlegm or mucus deposits in respiratory passages and lungs. It helps reduce chronic fever and relieve nasal congestion, cold, bronchitis, headache, whooping cough, breathing difficulties, asthma and sinusitis. It reduces the formation of mucus and helps to maintain the overall health of an individual.

9. What are the uses of Bakuchi in diarrhoea?

Bakuchi helps in the digestion of food by regulating the enzyme, as enzymes are essential for the fast and easy digestion process. As per the Ayurveda, Bakuchi helps to improve digestion. The plant’s leaves are used to manage diarrhoea due to their antibacterial property.  

10. Is Bakuchi helpful in jaundice?

Although enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Bakuchi in jaundice, it may prevent liver injury due to its antioxidant activity and fights against free radicals and prevents hepatic cell damage. Bakuchi manages this condition due to its rejuvenation and appetiser properties. It maintains overall health, improves digestion, and enhances appetite.

11. What are the side effects of Bakuchi Churna?

Bakuchi cannot be used undiluted and in high doses on the skin. Otherwise, it can cause severe skin infections, like skin discolouration, allergies and rashes. Some products like curd, pickles, fish etc., should be avoided in case of vitiligo treatment with Bakuchi Churna. Bakuchi should be taken in the recommended dose and duration since high doses and prolonged uses cause severe hyperacidity and gastritis.

12. What are the medicinal uses of Bakuchi oil?

Bakuchi seed oil is used for the treatment of skin ailments. Bakuchi seed extracts have been used for a very long time to treat skin-related problems such as dermatitis, eczema, boils, skin eruptions, vitiligo, scabies, leucoderma and ringworm. Bakuchi has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial proper, ties due to which it has proven to reduce and control all skin-related problem and helps to promote natural colour complexion and to maintain and normalises individual skin pigmentation.

13. Is Bakuchi useful in male infertility therapy?

Bakuchi fruits also have many medicinal uses. The seeds with the seed’s pods, own high aphrodisiac properties, which means they are used as a remedy for various diseases related to infertility.

14. Is bakuchiol good for the skin? 

Yes, Bakuchiol is good for all types of skin.

15. What is bakuchiol? 

It’s a synonym of Bakuchi oil. Moreover, Bakuchiol is the major chemical constituent Psoralea corylifolia. Components derived from Psoralea corylifolia, including bakuchiol, corylifolia, corylin, psoralidin and isobavachin, have strong antioxidant activities.

Gayatri K. Bahatkar, M. J. ( 2021, October). An Ayurvedic and Modern Review on Valued Medicinal Plant - Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia Linn.). Drugs and Cell Therapies in Hematology, x(1). Retrieved from

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shweta-Parwe-2/publication/355651386_An_Ayurvedic_and_Modern_Review_on_Valued_Medicinal_Plant_-Bakuchi_Psoralea_corylifolia_Linn/links/61784166a767a03c14b79012/An-Ayurvedic-and-Modern-Review-on-Valued-Medicinal-Plant-Bakuchi-Psoralea-corylifolia-Linn.pdf

Chudzińska, J. (2022, june 04). DOES BAKUCHIOL DESERVE TO BE CALLED PLANT-BASED RETINOL? ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF BAKUCHIOL AND RETINOL. Retrieved from 

https://promovendi.pl/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/The-Book-of-Articles-National-Scientific-Conferences-2022-2.pdf#page=6