Development and evaluation of VCO based herbal hair tonic

Abstract

Loss of hair or alopecia is a universal problem that has been estimated to affect between 0.2 and 2% of the world’s population. Various synthetic formulations available for treatment of alopecia exhibit severe side effects and also do not cure the condition permanently while natural products are getting more popular mainly due to their fewer side effects. It is therefore necessary to discover natural remedies of plant origin having hair growth promoting potential to replace the synthetic one for the treatment of alopecia. People in the tropical countries have effectively used coconut oil to promote hair growth and development as a traditional hair grooming practice. Virgin coconut oil is the purest form of coconut oil which retains most of its functional components. The aim of present study involves development of herbal hair oil from virgin coconut oil extracts of a mix of nine herbs which is beneficial as a hair tonic. The various herbs used in the formulation are amla, hibiscus, curry leaf, Aloe vera, henna, bhringraj, tulsi, small onion and neela amari in varying concentration. Mixtures of these herbs are extracted in a definite proportion in virgin coconut oil and lavender oil is added for fragrance. The formula is finalised in such a way that the combination of ingredients provides essential nutrients such as protein, antioxidant vitamins and minerals which complement the normal function and nourishment of hair. The poly herbal hair oil developed was analysed for organoleptic properties and various physical and biological properties. Parameters such as moisture content, pH, specific gravity, viscosity, acid value, saponification value etc., were evaluated and irritation test and sensitivity test were conducted and recorded. It was observed that all the parameters were within the permissible limits. Herbal hair oil formulation showed the best result in hair growth having a cooling effect with no side effects.