Phytochemical investigation of Vitex negundo and formulation of oil for hair growth and potential alopecia activity

Abstract

The study involves the collection and authentication of the plant materials, followed by the extraction of their active compounds using ethanol. A detailed phytochemical screening is conducted to identify the presence of bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides. The formulated herbal oil undergoes rigorous evaluation for organoleptic properties, including appearance, color, odor, and consistency, as well as physicochemical properties like pH, specific gravity, viscosity, and refractive index. The in-vivo hair growth activity is assessed using an animal model, with the experimental design comprising treatment groups, observation periods, and histopathological analysis. The results indicate a significant improvement in hair growth initiation and completion times in the treated groups compared to the control. Statistical analysis of the data confirms the superiority of the herbal treatment over the control and aligns with the phytochemical findings. The study concludes that the herbal formulation not only promotes hair growth but also offers a natural and safe alternative to synthetic treatments, minimizing the risk of side effects.