Development and Evaluation of Polyherbal Formulation for Hair Growth Activity

Abstract

Hibiscus rosa sinesis, Cuscuta reflexa, Citrullus colocynthis, Nardostachys jatamansi and Ocimum gratissimum are widely used in indigenous system of medicine for their hair growth promoting potential. In the present study it was envisaged to formulate in-house polyherbal formulations of the five herbs in varying ratios and to evaluate them for hair growth initiating and hair growth promoting activity.

Qualitative hair growth analysis was undertaken by visual observation of four parameters: hair growth initiation time, hair growth completion time, hair length and hair diameter. The formulation F¹ showed significant increase in hair length and hair diameter and a marked reduction in hair growth initiation time as compared to control. The results thus corroborate with the traditionally acclaimed hair growth-promoting capabilities of the plants. It can thus be concluded that the extract combination F¹ proved excellent hair growth activity. The prepared polyherbal formulation also holds potential for the treatment of alopecia.

Key words:

• Alopecia
• Polyherbal
• Hair growth
• Herbal formulation