Preparation and bioactivity of Indigenous formula used as hair care oil

Abstract

Haircare mainly affects the appearance of an individual. Hair dyes are personal care products used to regain or change hair color. Even though natural products were used in ancient times, synthetic products are now highly used. However, synthetic products include artificial and harmful chemicals that affect human health upon long-term usage. Therefore, practicing natural products is important for long-term usage. In this study, a hair care oil to use as a hair dye was formulated and prepared using natural ingredients such as sesame oil, Eclipta prostrata, Barleria prionitis L, Gmelina asiatica L, Triphala, Pandanus tectorius, Gmelina arborea, and iron powder with reference to an Ayurveda book (Thalpathe Piliyam). Here, a decoction was prepared using the plant materials mentioned above and was mixed with juice of Eclipta prostrata, sesame oil, and the final oil of 2410 mL volume was prepared and kept for one month. After one month, the oil was evaluated for antioxidant activity using the DPPH method (IC50 value 151–200 ppm), anti-inflammatory activity using the HRBC membrane stabilization method (IC50 value 249.5–1440 ppm), antifungal properties, and organoleptic properties such as color (blue black), appearance (thick emulsion), odor (characteristic), sedimentation (none), pH value (6.80–6.90 ± 0.02), moisture 36.50–38.50 ± 0.05 (105°C), refractive index (1.465–1.467 at 25°C), skin sensitivity (no impacts), dyeing effect, and stability under physical properties. Chemical properties were also assessed, including acid value (2.01–2.05), iodine value (62.58–62.68), peroxide value (5.05–5.58), and heavy metal content. Accordingly, the above analyses confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and ensured the other quality parameters of the product. As a result, it was concluded that this product is applicable for human hair trials and development. However, further research is essential to develop it into a commercial application.