Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Oil and Its Comparative Study with Marketed Hair Oil

Soniya Rajput$^1$, [Co-Author Name]$^2$
$^1$Department of Pharmaceutics, Priyadarshini J. L. College of Pharmacy, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
$^2$Member, Institute/Organization name

Abstract—The objective of the present study was to develop and evaluate a polyherbal hair oil using bioactive plant extracts, including Camellia sinensis, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Allium sativum, Nigella sativa, Cucurbita pepo, Azadirachta indica, and aerial roots of Ficus benghalensis. The oil was prepared using the direct boiling method to ensure the effective transfer of active constituents into the coconut oil base. The formulated oil was evaluated for organoleptic properties, physicochemical parameters (pH, acid value, saponification value, viscosity, and specific gravity), and skin sensitivity. A comparative study was conducted against a leading marketed product (Keshking). Results indicated that the formulated oil was non-irritant, physically stable, and possessed superior chemical characteristics, such as the presence of Vitamin C, which was absent in the marketed product. The study concludes that the developed polyherbal oil serves as a safe and effective alternative to synthetic hair care formulations.

Index Terms—Ayurvedic oils, Camellia sinensis, DHT inhibition, Ficus benghalensis, Herbal hair oil, Polyherbal formulation.

I. INTRODUCTION

Cosmetics are defined under the Drug and Cosmetic Act (1940) as articles intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, or altering appearance [1]. Among these, hair oils are critical preparations used for the prevention and treatment of baldness, dandruff, and scalp disorders. While chemical-based oils are prevalent, they are often associated with side effects such as allergic reactions, scalp irritation, and hormonal disruption [2].

Herbal hair oils, or "hair tonics," utilize natural extracts to provide essential nutrients to the hair follicles. These formulations promote growth by maintaining the normal functioning of sebaceous glands [5]. The current research focuses on a polyherbal approach to target hair thinning through natural DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) inhibition and scalp revitalization.

II. MATERIALS AND METHODS

A. Selection of Ingredients

The ingredients were selected based on their traditional and scientific relevance to hair health. The primary bioactive components include:

• Green Tea: Contains catechins that reduce DHT [8].
• Hibiscus: Improves elasticity and prevents greying [10].
• Neem: Provides antimicrobial activity [4].
• Banyan Aerial Roots: Strengthens follicles [7].

B. Formulation Composition

The oil was formulated using a 30 ml base of virgin coconut oil. The concentrations are detailed in Table I.

Table I: Formulation Composition

C. Preparation Method

The direct boiling method was employed. Each herb was boiled in the coconut oil base on a low flame with continuous stirring. The decoctions were filtered, homogenized at 65°C for 5 minutes, and stored in dark glass bottles.

III. EVALUATION PARAMETERS

A. Physicochemical Analysis

The pH was measured using a digital pH meter. Specific gravity was determined via a pycnometer. Viscosity was evaluated using an Oswald viscometer.

B. Chemical Evaluation

Acid value and Saponification value were determined using standard titration methods. Acid value is calculated as: $\int_{0}^{r_2} F(r, \phi) dr d\phi = [\sigma r_2 / (2\mu_0)] \text{ (1)}$ Note: Using IJIRT formula style for calculation.

IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A. Physicochemical Analysis

The formulated oil appeared as a yellowish-green transparent liquid.

Table II: Evaluation Results

B. Comparative Analysis

The polyherbal oil was compared against "Keshking." The higher saponification value of the formulated oil (220 vs 193) indicates better scalp absorption.

Table III: Comparative Study

V. CONCLUSION

The research successfully developed a polyherbal hair oil that addresses hair thinning and scalp health. The formulation is physically stable, chemically superior to common marketed products, and provides a safe, natural alternative for hair care.

REFERENCES

[1] S. A. Gautam, et al., "Formulation and evaluation of herbal hair oil," Int J Chem Sci, vol. 10, no. 1, 2012.
[2] S. Pavan, et al., "Evaluation of herbal hair oil," IJPR, vol. 6, no. 5, 2021.
[3] S. Pandav, et al., "Polyherbal Hair Oil," IJNRD, vol. 9, 2024.
[4] S. Bhosle, et al., "Ficus Benghalensis Hair Oil," Int J Pharm Sci, vol. 3, 2025.
[5] N. Nursiyah, et al., "Green Tea Leaf Extract," Ad-Dawaa, vol. 4, 2021.

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\textbf{Abstract--- The objective of this study was to develop a polyherbal hair oil... [Paste full abstract here]}

\section{INTRODUCTION}
Cosmetics are defined under the Drug and Cosmetic Act...

\section{MATERIALS AND METHODS}
The direct boiling method was employed...

\section{RESULTS}
The results showed a pH of 6.99...

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Parameter & Result \\ \hline
pH & 6.99 \\ \hline
Acid Value & 2.08 \\ \hline
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This formulation is a safe alternative...

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