FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF JACKFRUIT SEED SHAMPOO FOR ANTIDANDRUFF ACTIVITY

Abstract

Dandruff is a common scalp condition mainly by the excessive growth of the fungi such as Malassezia, leading to itching, irritation, and flaking of the scalp. Synthetic anti-dandruff shampoos may cause side effects such as dryness and irritation; therefore, herbal formulations are gaining importance due to their safety and natural origin also minimizes the side effects and ecofriendly nature. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate an herbal anti-dandruff shampoo containing jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) seed extract. The shampoo was prepared using jackfruit seed extract as the active ingredients along with herbal excipients such as reetha, shikakai, aloe vera, henna, glycerin, and xanthan gum and suitable preservatives such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate. Jackfruit seeds are rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidants and antimicrobial constituents that help in controlling fungal growth, reducing scalp inflammation and promoting healthy hair. In this preparation reetha and shikakai acted as a natural foaming and cleansing agents. While glycerin served as a humectant and xanthan gum and gelatin improves viscosity and stability of the shampoo. Different formulations were prepared and evaluated for parameters including pH, viscosity, foam height, foam stability, surface tension, dirt dispersion and stability. The formulation showed acceptable physiochemical properties with pH suitable for scalp application, good foam formation and effective cleansing ability. Antifungal activity was tested against Malassezia furfur, showing noticeable zones of inhibition indicating its effectiveness in controlling dandruff causing organism. Among the formulations 4th one showed better antifungal activity and stability. The results indicate that the formulated herbal antidandruff shampoo showed acceptable physical properties. Thus the study concludes that jackfruit seed extract can be successfully utilized in the formulation of safe, effective, and natural herbal antidandruff shampoo, providing a potential alternative to synthetic chemical based hair care products.