Abstract
The abstract of the paper discusses Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, highlighting its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It emphasizes the diverse phytochemicals present in neem, such as limonoids, flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenoids, which contribute to its efficacy against various microbial strains. The review concludes that neem is a promising candidate for developing safe and effective antimicrobial agents, while also noting the need for further clinical studies and standardization. The abstract discusses shampoos as primary hair care items, highlighting herbal shampoos that utilize herbs for cleansing the hair and scalp. It notes the rising popularity of herbal shampoos due to concerns over synthetic ingredients, emphasizing their natural composition and potential health benefits. The study also underscores the importance of quality control, safety, and efficacy in formulation processes, aiming to promote better hair care habits. The abstract presents a novel poly-herbal anti-dandruff shampoo that utilizes a blend of botanicals to effectively manage dandruff and related scalp conditions. It combines the anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties of various herbs, creating a gentle and nourishing treatment suitable for sensitive scalps and skin types, while being free from harsh chemicals and artificial additives.
Keywords
Neem, Anti-Microbial, Infections, Phytochemical, Azadirachta Indica
Introduction
Hair is an important part of overall appeal of human body. There are many hair problems like thinning of hair, lack of hair volume, immature greying, conditioning, hair loss etc. have been observed by most of the individuals. Shampoo can also be defined as a cosmetic preparation used for washing scalp and their packed in a form in which is convenient for use. Infectious illness caused by microbes such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites have accounted for most of the world’s mortality and morbidity. The accelerated development of antimicrobial resistance. The development of multidrug-resistant pathogens over time has an urgent need for new treatment techniques, especially those from natural origins with low tendencies for developing resistance. Natural sources, in this case, medicinal plants, have gained increasing attention as possible origins of bioactive compounds showing antimicrobial action. Shampoos are primary hair care products for cleansing hair and scalp,Herbal shampoos use natural ingredients, offering safety and health benefits,The study emphasizes quality control and efficacy in herbal shampoo formulation, Dandruff is a common scalp disorder affecting half the pre-pubertal population ,It can cause itching and affects aesthetic value,Oily dandruff, known as pityriasis steatoides, may occur during puberty .The research presents a poly-herbal anti-dandruff shampoo formulation.
- Infectious illnesses from microbes cause significant global mortality and morbidity .
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) reduces the effectiveness of conventional therapies .
- Neem (Azadirachta indica) shows potential as an antimicrobial agent .
- Neem has been used in traditional medicine for various conditions .
- Neem contains bioactive compounds with potent antimicrobial activity .
- Its extracts exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic activities .
- Clinical use of neem therapies is limited due to toxicity and standardization issues.
Botanical description :
Azadirachta indica is a rapidly growing, evergreen tree belonging to the family Meliaceae. Neem is native to the Indian subcontinent but to its multifaceted medicinal and ecological benefits, it is now cultivated on a large scale in tropical and subtropical regions of the globe. Neem typically grows to a height of 15 to 20 meters and bears a dense canopy of dark green leaves. Its leaves are pinnate with leaflets that are oblong and posses a very distinctive, strong aroma . It has yellowish fruit containing oily seeds and minute white flowers . Its bark is coarse and grayish-brown, but the most common parts used in medicine are its seeds and leaves. Neem has been a cornerstone of South Asian traditional medicine for over 5,000 years, particularly in the Siddha, Unnani, and Ayurvedic systems.It is known to have multiple therapeutic properties such as antioxidant , antidiabetic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. ]. Leaves,bark, seeds, and neemoil are used in numerous formulation ranging from oils, powders, extracts,and decoctions..
Common names: Neem , Margosa , Nimtree, Indian Lilac
Scientific name : Azadirachta indica
Family : Meliaceae
Parts Used : Seeds, bark ,leaves , and fruits.
Biological Source :
The neem is derived biologically from the tree Azadirachta indica, also referred to as the neem tree or Indian lilac. Neem trees belong to the family Meliaceae. Preparations and extracts of the seeds ,bark, leaves, and fruits of the neem tree are utilized for several medicinal and other purposes.
Medicinal Parts of Neem (Azadirachta indica):
- Leaves : Used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema,and fungal infections. Also used as an insecticides and to treat fever and gastrointestinal problems .
- Bark : Known for antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. Often used in decoction from malaria, fever, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Seeds: Rich in azadirachtin, with strong insecticidal and antimicrobial properties. Neem seed oil is used topically for skin infections and wounds.
- Neem Oil: Extracted from seeds, used in medicinal and cosmetics formulation. Helpful in treating bacteria/ fungal infections, dry scalp, lice, and dandruff.
Table 1: Major Phytoconstituent of Neem and Their Activities
|
Phytoconstituent’s
|
Plant part
|
Type of Compound
|
Reported antimicrobial
Activity
|
Mechanism
of Action
|
|
Azadirachtin
|
Seeds, Leaves
|
Limonoid
(Triterpenoid)
|
Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral
|
Disrupts microbial metabolism and cell replication
|
|
Nimbidin
|
Seed Kernel, oil
|
Triterpenoid
|
Antibacterial
Antifungal
|
Inhibits bacteria cell wall synthesis, reduces inflammation
|
|
Nimbin
|
Bark, Seed oil
|
Triterpenoid
|
Antibacterial
Antifungal
|
Disrupts microbial membrane integrity
|
|
Nimbolide
|
Leaves, Flowers
|
Limonoid
|
Antibacterial,
Antifungal,
Antiparasitic
|
Induces oxidative stress , inhibit microbial DNA/RNA
|
|
Gedumin
|
Seeds
|
Limonoid
|
Antimalarial
Antibacterial
|
Protein denaturation.
|
Applications: -
- Neem extracts are used in topical gels and creams for acne and infections.
- Standardized neem leaf extract is available in capsules and tablets for disorders.
- Nano-formulations enhance bioavailability and targeted delivery of neem extracts.
- Neem's antimicrobial properties support its use in modern pharmaceutical applications
- Neem extracts are used in topical gels and creams for acne and infections.
- Standardized neem leaf extract is available in capsules and tablets for disorders.
- Nano-formulations enhance bioavailability and targeted delivery of neem extracts.
- Neem's antimicrobial properties support its use in modern pharmaceutical applications.
- The shampoo effectively manages dandruff and related scalp conditions.
- It promotes overall scalp health through herbal ingredients.
- The formulation targets dandruff with antimicrobial and soothing actions.
Challenges: -
- Lack of standardization in extraction methods limits reproducibility .
- Neem compounds are sensitive to light, heat, and pH changes .
- Limited clinical evidence; most findings are based on in vitro studies .
- Nerve toxicity can occur from consuming large amounts of neem oil .
- Some neem extracts show antifertility effects in animal studies .
- Topical use may cause allergic reactions in some individuals .
Method Used:
- Soxhlet extraction uses solvents for continuous extraction of neem materials .
- Aqueous extraction involves neem bark or leaves in water for herbal medicine .
- Maceration soaks neem materials in solvents at room temperature for extraction .
- Herbs are collected and boiled using a decoction process .
- The decoction is filtered through muslin cloth
- The filtrate is mixed to formulate the shampoo.
- Detergency ability is assessed using the Thompson technique .
- Skin sensitization tests are performed on guinea pigs .
- Stability studies are conducted under controlled humidity and temperature.
- Organoleptic characteristics are evaluated through visual inspection.
- The study emphasizes quality control and safety in formulation.
- Visual inspection assesses shampoo quality and characteristics .
- Foam stability is determined using the cylinder shakes method .
- pH is measured using pH paper strips .
- Dirt dispersion test evaluates shampoo's ability to separate dirt from foam .
- The shampoo formulation combines various herbal ingredients for effectiveness .
Extraction of Neem Phytochemicals:
The method of extraction significantly influences the yield, purity, and biological activity of neem phytoconstituents. The choice of solvent and extraction techniques depends on the specific plant part used and the nature of the targeted bioactive compounds. Common extraction techniques:
- Maceration: Dried and powder neem leaves, bark, or seeds are soaked in solvents such as ethanol, methanol, or water at room temperature for 24-72 hours. After maceration, the solution is filtered and concentrated using a rotary evaporator under reduced pressure.
- Soxhlet Extraction: This method involves continuous extraction of dried neem material using solvents like petroleum ether, chloroform, or ethanol in a Soxhlet apparatus. It is particularly effective for isolating non- polar to moderately polar phytochemicals.
- Aqueous Extraction: Commonly used in traditional herbal medicine, this method involve boiling neem bark or leaves in water, followed by cooling and filteration. While simple and safe, it is less effective for extracting non-polar compounds like limonoids.
Table no 2: Solvent Used in Extraction of Phytochemical from Neem
|
Solvent
|
Target Compounds
|
|
Water
|
Flavonoids, tannins
|
|
Ethanol/Methanol
|
Alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids
|
|
Hexane
|
Fixed oils, non-polar terpenoids
|
|
Chloroform
|
Limonoids, steroids
|
Objectives: -
- To study neem's botanical description and phytoconstituents.
- To evaluate neem's antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
- To explore targeted delivery systems for neem extracts.
- To investigate neem's role in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- The study aims to develop herbal shampoo from natural plant extracts.
- It evaluates the efficacy and safety of herbal shampoos.
- The research highlights the importance of quality control in formulation.
- It encourages better hair care habits using natural products.
- To formulate a polyherbal shampoo using medicinal plants for hair growth .
- To investigate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of herbal extracts .
- To evaluate the physicochemical properties of the formulated shampoo .
- To assess the shampoo's efficacy in promoting hair growth and reducing dandruff .
- To optimize the formulation for improved efficacy and stability.
Findings:
- Neem exhibits strong antimicrobial properties against various pathogens .
- It contains diverse phytochemicals like azadirachtin and quercetin .
- Neem extracts show promise in developing eco-friendly antimicrobial agents .
- Standardization and clinical trials are necessary for regulatory validation .
- Herbal shampoos promote hair growth and reduce hair loss .
- Traditional ingredients offer safer alternatives to synthetic hair care products .
- Skin sensitization tests showed no severe irritation in guinea pigs .
- Ocular irritation tests indicated potential eye damage in rabbits .
- The study emphasizes the efficacy and safety of herbal shampoos .
- The herbal anti-dandruff shampoo effectively prevents dandruff and infections .
- It contains natural herbs with active phytoconstituents for scalp health .
- Ingredients like Neem and Aloe Vera provide antimicrobial and soothing benefits .
- The formulation is free from harsh chemicals, suitable for sensitive scalps
Practical Implications:-
- Neem shows potential as a natural substitute for synthetic antimicrobials .
- Standardization of neem extracts is necessary for regulated pharmaceuticals .
- Future research should explore neem's role in antimicrobial resistance management .
- Neem extracts have demonstrated good safety profiles in clinical investigations .
- Neem's diverse phytochemicals exhibit antimicrobial properties against various pathogens .
- Herbal shampoos offer a natural alternative to synthetic hair care products .
- They promote hair growth and reduce hair loss .
- Quality control and safety are crucial in shampoo formulation .
- The study highlights the demand for natural hair care solutions.
- The shampoo formulation offers a natural solution for dandruff treatment .
- It combines traditional knowledge with modern hair care needs.
- The ingredients promote scalp health and reduce irritation .
- It is suitable for sensitive scalps, free from harsh chemicals .
Future Research:-
- Standardization of neem extracts and clinical trials is necessary.
- Investigate synergistic effects of neem phytochemicals with antibiotics.
- Develop stable, targeted nano-formulations for infections.
- Evaluate neem's effectiveness in managing antimicrobial resistance.
- Utilize molecular tools to study mechanisms and gene interactions.
- Further research can refine herbal shampoo formulations for better efficacy .
- Investigate the impact of traditional plant-based ingredients on hair care .
- Explore the safety and efficacy of herbal shampoos compared to synthetic products.
Research Gap:-
- Limited clinical evidence requires more human trials for validation .
- Low bioavailability of neem phytochemicals needs advanced delivery systems .
- Standardization of neem extracts is necessary for regulated pharmaceuticals .
- Future research should explore synergistic effects with conventional antibiotics
Population Sample :-
- The skin sensitization test involved guinea pigs in three groups of seven each .
- No specific sampling methods were detailed in the research paper .
- The study emphasizes quality control and safety in herbal shampoo formulations .
Dependent Variables:-
- Conditioning performance was evaluated using a blind touch test .
- Skin sensitization was assessed by erythema ratings .
- Eye irritation was measured through sebum extraction and irritation tests .
- Organoleptic characteristics included clarity, colour, and odour evaluations .
- Detergency ability was assessed using the Thompson technique .
- The diameter of the zone of inhibition indicates antimicrobial activity .
- The percentage of detergency power (DP) is calculated .
- Conditioning attributes of the shampoo were evaluated .
- Foam volume and stability were measured
RESULTS: -
Neem exhibits strong antimicrobial properties against various pathogens,The review highlights neem's potential in modern therapeutic formulations ,Further clinical studies and standardization are necessary for regulatory validation,Neem shows promise in combating antimicrobial resistance ,Herbal shampoos are safer alternatives to synthetic products,They promote hair growth and reduce hair loss,The study emphasizes quality control and safety in formulation,Organoleptic characteristics showed a viscous, brown liquid with aromatic odour,Eye irritation and skin sensitization tests were conducted. The herbal shampoo effectively manages dandruff and scalp conditions ,It reduces symptoms like flaking, itching, and redness,The formulation is free from harsh chemicals, suitable for sensitive scalps.It combines various natural ingredients for enhanced scalp health
CONCLUSIONS: -
- Neem (Azadirachta indica) has strong antimicrobial properties due to various phytochemicals .
- Its efficacy against bacterial and fungal pathogens is well-supported by studies.
- Neem is a promising candidate for developing eco-friendly antimicrobial agents.
- Further clinical studies and standardization are necessary for regulatory validation
- Herbal shampoos are effective alternatives to synthetic products for hair care.
- They promote hair growth and reduce hair loss .
- Natural ingredients minimize negative effects of synthetic chemicals .
- The study emphasizes the importance of quality control and safety The herbal anti-dandruff shampoo shows fewer side effects than synthetic options .
- It effectively removes excess oil, a major cause of dandruff.
- The formulation promotes overall scalp health using natural ingredients.
- It combines traditional knowledge with modern hair care needs.
- The shampoo is suitable for sensitive scalps and free from harsh chemicals.
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10.5281/zenodo.15559172
