In a groundbreaking discovery blending ancient wisdom with modern science, Tanzania has unveiled a powerful natural remedy for baldness, hair loss, and skin aging crafted from the bark of an endangered tree revered by indigenous communities.

The Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (Tawiri) announced the breakthrough on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Arusha, marking the end of a 12-year scientific journey that relied heavily on the knowledge of local communities in the Ngorongoro District, including the Maasai, Hadzabe, Datoga, and Iraqw peoples.

At the heart of the discovery is Albizia anthelmintica, locally known as the Mporojo tree. Traditionally used by these communities for a range of health issues, its bark has now been scientifically proven to stimulate hair regrowth, prevent thinning, and reduce breakage.

“This is a significant development for people facing baldness, thinning hair, or breakage,” said Dr Julius Keyyu, Director of Research at Tawiri. “Scientific testing confirms that Albizia anthelmintica has unique properties that promote hair regrowth and prevent hair loss.”

The remedy has been officially patented under the name Composition for Hair Growth Stimulation or Hair Loss Prevention Using an Extract of Albizia anthelmintica. Beyond hair treatment, the tree’s roots have shown potential in treating ailments like intestinal worms, malaria, and leg pain.

To bring the product to global markets, Tawiri has licensed South Korea’s Winwik Enterprise Ltd to manufacture hair care products such as oils, shampoos, and scalp treatments for both domestic and international distribution.

As the Mporojo tree’s demand rises, Tawiri is now focusing on research to cultivate it sustainably to prevent overharvesting and extinction in the wild.

In a parallel discovery, Tanzanian scientists also uncovered the anti-ageing and skin-lightening powers of Maerua edulis, known locally as Mugufe or Ekwida in the Datoga language. This plant has been formulated into a new skincare product registered as Composition for Skin-Lightening and Improving Wrinkles Using Extract of Maerua edulis. Tawiri is currently seeking partners to bring this product to market.

“The broader objective of the research was to conserve traditional medicinal plants at risk of extinction by integrating them into botanical gardens and ensuring their sustainable use for community benefit," said Mr Rogastian Msafiri, speaking on behalf of Tawiri’s Director General.

The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Institute of Traditional Medicine under the Ministry of Health and South Korea’s National Institute of Biological Resources, emphasizes conservation through cultivation in botanical gardens and sustainable community use.

With science now validating centuries of indigenous wisdom, Tanzania is poised to become a global leader in natural beauty and wellness innovations.