FORMULATION AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF POLYHERBAL ANTIDANDRUFF SHAMPOO

Abstract

One of the most prevalent scalp conditions that affect people of all ages, dandruff is primarily linked to dryness, itching, irritation, flaking of the scalp, and microbial infection. Continuous usage of synthetic antidandruff shampoos can have negative effects like dry hair, inflammation of the scalp, and texture damage. Because of their superior safety profile, medicinal efficacy, and few side effects, herbal cosmetic formulations are becoming more and more popular. In this study, medicinal plants with antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, cleaning, and hair-conditioning qualities were used to formulate and assess a polyherbal antidandruff shampoo. Neem (Azadirachta indica), tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller), hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), reetha (Sapindus mukorossi), and shikakai (Acacia concinna) were among the herbal ingredients used to make the polyherbal shampoo. These plants were chosen for their traditional therapeutic applications in hair and scalp care. To create a stable shampoo formulation, aloe vera gel, glycerin, lemon oil, and preservatives were added after the aqueous extraction procedure. Numerous physicochemical and performance criteria, including color, odor, appearance, pH, viscosity, foamability, foam stability, dirt dispersion, wetting time, washability, skin irritation, and stability tests, were assessed for the produced shampoo. The formulation's good homogeneity, acceptable pH, adequate foam generation, appropriate viscosity, and outstanding cleansing performance were all demonstrated by the findings. It was discovered that the shampoo remained stable in storage without experiencing phase separation or notable physical alterations. Studies on skin irritation showed that the formulation was safe to use topically and did not cause any irritation or negative side effects. According to the study's findings, the polyherbal antidandruff shampoo had good cosmetic acceptability, hair-conditioning qualities, and effective antidandruff potential. For keeping a healthy scalp and hair, the herbal composition can be thought of as a safe, affordable, and efficient substitute for synthetic anti-dandruff shampoos.