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Abstract

The most typical hair treatment is cleaning. Shampoos are products that are generally used to clean the hair and scalp. Shampooing is an art by which sebum or grease produced by sebaceous glands are rinsed off from hairs making them dirt/oil free. The main goal of this study was to replace risky ingredients in shampoo formulations with a secure natural product. The study's objectives included developing a pure herbal shampoo and assessing and contrasting its physicochemical properties with those of commercially available synthetic and herbal shampoos. The herbal shampoo was formulated by adding the extracts of amla, bhringraj, curry leaves, reetha and shikakai in different proportions to water. A small amount of methylparaben was added as a preservative and pH was adjusted with citric acid. Several tests such as visual inspection, pH, wetting time, % of solid contents, foam volume and stability, surface tension, detergency, dirt dispersion, etc, were performed to determine the physicochemical properties of both prepared and marketed shampoos. The results clearly indicate that the formulated shampoo is having a satisfactory conditioning performance level. All the ingredients used to formulate shampoo are safer and the physicochemical evaluation showed ideal results, but further research is required to improve its quality and identify the constituents that are responsible for the performance.

Keywords

Herbal shampoo, physicochemical properties, synthetic, Chemical free

Introduction

Cosmetics are items designed to be applied to the body in order to cleanse, enhance attractive traits, and beautify or change the look. They are articles with mild action on the human body, which are intended to be applied through rubbing, sprinkling, or other methods, aiming to clean, beautify and increase attractiveness, alter the appearance, or keep the skin or hair in good condition. The herbal shampoo is a cosmetic preparation that uses herbs from plants and it is meant for washing hair and scalp just like a regular shampoo [1]. It serves as an alternative to commercially available synthetic shampoo. Herbal lists today, believe in helping people build their good health with the help of natural sources. In the early days, a shampoo could be defined as an effective cleansing agent for hair and scalp, but in the present scenario, the shampoo must do much more functions [2]. It must leave the hair easy to comb, lustrous, radiant, and controllable whilst being convenient and easy to use. Shampoo is a mixture of a surfactant (surface active ingredient) in an appropriate liquid, solid, or powder form that, when used as directed, will remove surface grease, grime, and skin debris from the hair shaft and scalp without negatively affecting the user's hair, scalp, or health. Shampoo is a hair care treatment used to get rid of contaminants including dandruff, oils, grime, skin fragments, and other contaminants that slowly accumulate in hair [3].       Evaluation of shampoos comprises quality control tests including visual assessment and physiochemical controls such as pH, density, and viscosity. The difference is more likely to be a reduced amount of oil or conditioning agent in shampoo for oily hair or the difference may even just be the packaging. Today’s market is full of various chemically composed products. There are several herbal shampoos also available with chemical composition in the market today. Those are effective for hair problems but are also indebted for hair loss [4].

Herbal Shampoo

  1. Herbal shampoo is a preparation made from surfactants in different forms such as liquid, solid, or powder, designed to remove surface grease, dirt, and debris from the hair shaft and scalp without causing harmful effects on hair or overall scalp health.
  2. It is considered a cosmetic product that uses herbs or plant-based ingredients as an alternative to synthetic shampoos available in the market, making it a natural and safer option [5].
  3. Shampoos are one of the most widely used hair care products in daily life, serving the main purpose of cleaning the scalp and hair by removing dirt, excess oil, dust, and other impurities.
  4. The method of using shampoo usually involves applying it to wet hair, massaging it into the scalp and hair roots, and then rinsing thoroughly with water to achieve proper cleansing.
  5. The purpose of herbal shampoos is not only to remove dirt but also to maintain the natural balance of scalp sebum, ensuring the hair remains healthy, shiny, and free from dryness or irritation [6].
  6. Herbal shampoos are more popular than artificial or synthetic shampoos because they are natural, safe, free from harmful chemicals, and do not produce side effects, which makes them highly demanded by consumers.
  7. They are manufactured and marketed in various forms, including powder, liquid, lotion, cream, jelly, aerosol, as well as specialized types such as conditioning shampoos, anti-dandruff shampoos, baby shampoos, and two-layer shampoos.
  8. Herbal shampoos provide multiple benefits to the hair, such as improving moisture retention, enhancing natural shine, promoting hair growth, thickening the hair strands, and strengthening the roots, along with preventing excessive hair fall.
  9. The use of herbs and natural extracts for hair cleansing, beautifying, and management dates back to ancient times, when people relied on natural resources for healthcare and cosmetic purposes [7].
  10. Herbal products, including shampoos, are affordable, effective, and widely used because they are free from major side effects, which makes them a preferred and sustainable option for maintaining hair care and beauty.

Human hairs

Parts of the Hair

Dermal papillae: The dermal papilla is responsible regulating the hair cycle and hair growth, and is also comprised of androgen receptors that are Sensitive to the presence of DHT.[8]

Matrix: The matrix surrounds the dermal papillae and contains all the active needed for hair Growth and for the development of the different Parts of the hair, particularly the outer root sheath. The inner root sheath and the hair shaft combined. The matrix and the dermal papillae make up the hair.

Figure No.01 Human Hair Structure

Bulb Outer root sheath: The outer root sheath, or, is the outermost part of the hair and is Keratinized. Inner root sheath: internal root sheath is comprised of three parts: the Henley layer, Huxley layer, and Cuticle.

Ideal Properties of Herbal Shampoo:

  • It should effectively and completely remove dust or soil, excessive sebum or other fatty Substances and loose corneal cells from the hair.
  • It should produce a good amount of foam to satisfy the psychological requirements of the user.
  • It should be easily removed on rinsing with water.
  • It should leave the hair non?dry, soft, shiny with good manageability minimum Fly away.
  • It should impart a pleasant perfume to the hair.
  • It should not cause any reaction/ irritation to skin or eye.
  • It should not make the hand rough and chapped[9].

Functions of Shampoo:

    1. It should effectively and completely remove dirt or soil.
    2. It should effectively wash the hair.
    3. It should produce a good amount of foam to satisfy the user.
    4. It should be readily removed by rinsing with water.
    5. It should impart a pleasant fragrance to the hair.
    6. It should not have any side effects or causes irritation to the skin and eye.[10]

Classification of Shampoo:[11]

      1. Based on Appearance
        • Powder shampoo
        • Liquid shampoo or lotion shampoo
        • Gel shampoo or Solid shampoo
        • Cream shampoo
        • Oil shampoo
        • Miscellaneous anti dandruff shampoo or medicated shampoo
      2. Based on Use or Function
        • Conditioning shampoo
        • Antidandruff shampoo
        • Therapeutic shampoo
        • Baby shampoo
        • Balancing shampoo
        • Clarifying shampoo
  1. Based on origin

• Herbal shampoo

• Egg shampoo

ADVANTAGES:[12]

  • Made from natural, biodegradable ingredients, they are better for the environment.
  • Packed with plant extracts, essential oils, and herbs, they nourish the scalp and hair roots, promoting growth and strength.
  • They use natural ingredients to cleanse hair and scalp without harsh chemicals, reducing dryness and irritation.
  • Free from potentially damaging synthetic ingredients like sulfates and parabens, reducing the risk of allergies and hair damage.
  • It helps in managing issues like dandruff and dryness, and can make hair feel smooth and silky.
  • Shampoo removes dirt, oil, sweat, and environmental pollutants, keeping hair and scalp clean and fresh.
  • By removing buildup, shampoo leaves hair looking healthier, shinier, and more manageable.
  • Washing hair can be a relaxing and stress-relieving ritual.

DISADVANTAGES:[13]

• Frequent or improper use can remove the scalp's natural oils, leading to dryness, flakiness, and potential irritation.

• Some harsh ingredients in shampoos, such as sulfates, can strip hair of its protective oils, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends.

• Certain chemicals can cause redness, itching, or allergic reactions on sensitive scalps.

• Some ingredients, like certain sulfates, have been linked to decreased new hair growth and hair loss.

• Other ingredients, like silicones, can accumulate on the scalp and hair, hindering moisture and nutrient circulation and potentially causing dandruff.

• The plastic packaging from shampoo bottles contributes to pollution, and some chemical ingredients can negatively impact the environment.

• Regularly purchasing and using shampoo and associated products like conditioner requires both financial investment and time.

Aim And Objectives

Aim: There is limited information available in the literature regarding the investigation of Emblica officinalis, Acacia concinna, and Sapindus mukorossi extracts for herbal shampoo formulation.

Objectives

  1. To collect, authenticate, and process the plant materials (Emblica officinalis, Acacia concinna, and Sapindus mukorossi).
  2. To prepare extracts of the selected plants using suitable solvents.
  3. To perform preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts.
  4. To formulate an herbal shampoo using the extracts in appropriate combinations.
  5. To evaluate the prepared herbal shampoo for physicochemical parameters such as pH, foaming ability, surface tension, viscosity, and stability.
  6. To assess the conditioning, cleansing, and antifungal properties of the herbal shampoo.
  7. To compare the performance of the formulated herbal shampoo with that of marketed synthetic and herbal shampoos.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE:

  1.  ?Akshay R. Yadav Shrinivas K. Mohite

Shampoos were mainly intended for hair and scalp washing. Since ancient times people have been using herbs to clean, beautify and treat hair. It is the most prevalent type of hair care. Shampoos were mainly items intended for hair and scalp washing. In the current situation, it seems unlikely that herbal shampoos would be popular with customers, even though they are better in consistency and healthier than conventional ones. A more progressive method would be to mold the preferences of customers from a shampoo, with a focus on health and effectiveness. The present research focuses on the preparation and evaluation of anti-dandruff cosmetic shampoo.[14]

  1. Gubitosa, J. Rizzi, V. Fini, P. Cosma P.

Hair is an important part of the body appeal and its look is a health indicator. Accordingly, recent advances in hair science and hair care technologies have been reported in literature claiming innovations and strategies for hair treatments and cosmetic products. The treatment of hair and scalp, primarily, involved the use of shampoo for an effective, but gentle cleansing; however, for years, the shampoo is considered not only as a cosmetic product having the purifying purpose, but it is also responsible for maintaining the health and the beauty of hair, imparting gloss and improving manageability. For meeting the needs of a multitasking formulation, following also the recent marketing-trend addressed to the "natural world", new challenges for cosmetic technology are aimed towards the research of natural ingredients, as well as new techniques for shampoo formulation. Regarding the recent development of solid shampoos, little information is available about their use, formulation and advantages. This review is largely focused on the description of solid shampoos, mainly based on the use of clays, herbs or flours as washing bases alternative to the traditional ones, consisting of a combination of synthetic surfactants, together with other usual ingredients expected in a shampoo formulation.[15]

  1. Zambare KK, Gonge SB, Shewale GB, Pawar PS

Shampoo is a hair care product. Shampoos are used not only for cleansing of hair but also for control of hair fall, dandruff, frizz, or to prevent damage to excessive oily or dry scalp etc. The shampoo contains various ingredients such as cleansing agent, preservative, foaming agent, sometimes antifungal or antibacterial agent etc. It is reported that some of these agents like antifungal agents show side effects like irritation, loss of hair, itching, increased scaling, nausea, and headache. Hence it is necessary to formulate the shampoo with the minimal side effects. Therefore, the present study is aimed at formulating the shampoo which is chemical free and instead contains the herbal extracts which can be the best alternative against the chemical-based shampoos and also may show better safety and efficacy. The formulated shampoo contains the herbal extracts of Azadirachta indica, Zingiber officinale, Citrus limon, Parkinsonia aculeata, Emblica officinalis and Ocimum sanctum and other ingredients required for shampoo base. The formulation was then evaluated by several tests like visual inspection, pH, Percentage of solids contents, Dirt dispersion, viscosity, Foaming ability and foam stability, Surface tension etc. [16]

  1. Sharma S, Sharma R, Sharma M, Ali SS, Ahmed T, Sachdeva D

A shampoo is a cleaning aid for the hair and is counted amongst the foremost beauty products. Shampoo is a hair care product that is used for the removal of oils, skin particles, dandruff, environmental pollutants and other contaminant particles that gradually build up in hair. The goal of using shampoo is to remove the unwanted build up without stripping out so much sebum as to make hair unmanageable. Shampoo is generally made by combining a surfactant, most often sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, with a co-surfactant, most often cocamidopropyl betaine in water to form a thick, viscous liquid. Other essential ingredients include salt (sodium chloride), which is used to adjust the viscosity, a preservative and fragrance. Today’s shampoo formulations are beyond the stage of pure cleaning of the hair. Additional benefits are expected, e.g. conditioning, smoothing of the hair surface, good health of hair, i.e., hair free of dandruff, dirt, grease and lice and all, its safety benefits are expected. As the scalp is one of the most highly permeable part of the body, products applied to the scalp go directly to the blood, without being filtered in any way. So, it is very important to know and understand the effects of ingredients used in shampoo formulations. Proteolysis is the directed degradation (digestion) of proteins by cellular enzymes called proteases or by intramolecular digestion.[17]

  1. Kengar MD, Vambhurkar GB, Gavade AS, Jagtap AM, Raut ID

Now a day peoples are interested in the hair care preparation like shampoos and hair conditioners. Shampoos are the products which are used for the removal of the dirt and surface grease from the hair shaft and scalp. There are numbers of synthetic shampoos in the market as compared to the herbal or natural shampoo, but synthetic shampoo has some harmful effect on the hair or scalp like dryness of hair and keratin loss. Now a day peoples are more aware about the side-effects each and every ingredient used in the formulation of shampoo or any of the cosmetic preparation. Hence due to this reason there is increase in demand for the natural ingredient containing formulation. From the results and discussion, we were concluded that the formulation was better in all aspects when compared to the synthetic shampoos. The marketed shampoos have excessive detergents which can strip the hairs off from the scalp. The prepared herbal shampoo was having better detergency and even it maintained the shiny and oily appearance. Therefore, the formulated herbal shampoo passed the entire test and hence can be a better substitute to the shampoos available.[18]

  1. Chavan VM, Suryavanshi KJ, Bhor AS.

Marketed (Synthetic) available shampoo contains artificial ingredients that are bad for the skin, damages hair follicles, irritates the scalp and some negative effects. Because consumers are now aware of the negative effects that synthetic products can have on their skin, hair, and eyes, they choose herbal products over synthetic ones. The adverse effects of herbal products are minimal so herbal products over synthetic ones. Herbal Shampoo is belonging to the cosmetic preparation using herbs and purpose of the hair care products are prepared to eliminate excess oil, dirt, and dandruff from the scalp and hair. The main aim of the present study is to formulate and evaluate polyherbal.[19]

  1. Jadhav SS, Jadhav KS, Dalvi YV.

The aim was to formulate an herbal liquid shampoo containing natural ingredients with an emphasis on safety and efficacy, which will avoid the risk posed by chemical ingredients. It clears sebum, dirt, dandruff, promotes hair growth, strengthens and darkens the hair. Moreover, it also acts as conditioning agents and performs all these actions without affecting or damaging hair. The herbs shikekai, ritha, amala powder, fenugreek powder and tulsi powder have been selected to formulate the herbal shampoo powder on the basis of the traditional system and scientific justification with modern uses.[20]

  1. Kumar A, Mali RR.

Shampooing is the most common form of hair treatment. Shampoos are primarily been products aimed at cleansing the hair and scalp. In the present scenario, it seems improbable that herbal shampoo, although better in performance and safer than the synthetic ones, will be popular with the consumers. A more radical approach in popularizing herbal shampoo would be to change the consumer expectations from a shampoo, with emphasis on safety and efficacy. We have evaluated and compared the herbal shampoo, which was formulated in previous study, with two marketed shampoos. The findings of this investigation reveal that synthetic preservatives have sometimes been the cause of adverse effects among consumers. We have used the physico-chemical approach to preservation and by formulating a self-preserving shampoo, have avoided this risk posed by chemical preservatives. However, the aesthetic attributes, such as lather and clarity, of the laboratory shampoo are not comparable with the marketed shampoos. The foam volume was on a par. Although the retail products were not fare so well in the tests conducted by us, they enjoy market popularity, especially if they foam well. This is mainly due to the false notion among consumers that ‘a shampoo that foams well, works well’, and no real effort on the part of manufacturers to counter this fallacy.[21]

  1. Priya D.G, Kamini V. M, Madhavee D.B

The objective of this study is to formulate and evaluate poly-herbal shampoo for cosmetic purpose from herbal ingredients. Hibiscus powder, Neem powder, Henna powder, Amla powder, Shikakai powder, Ritha powder, Alo-vera gel was procured from local market in powdered form and rice water prepared by homemade method, then prepared decoction of these ingredients and mixing with each other and evaluated for its organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics. Herbal shampoo is used to cleansing of the hair also conditioning, smoothing, of the hair surface, good health of hair, hair free of dandruff, dirt grease and lice above all, its safety benefits are expected. The advantage of herbal cosmetics is their non-toxic nature, reduce the allergic reactions and usefulness of many ingredients. That’s why in present work we found good properties for the herbal shampoo and further optimization study benefits of herbal shampoo on human use as cosmetic product.[22]

  1. Nikam NR, Patil PR, Jadhav RP, Vakhariya RR, Magdum CS.

The hair care herbal shampoo powder has been prepared using some of the traditional medicines. Bahera, Amla, Neem, Tulsi, Shikakai Heena and Brahmi were evaluated for organoglytics, powder characteristics, foam test and physical evaluation. Due to the selection of drugs once the drug is used together or jointly, existing inspections will help establish standards and assessment criteria, which will certainly help to standardize the quality and purity of these herbal powder shampoos.[23]

Drug Profile

Amla

Figure.No.02 Amla Plant

Synonym: Indian gooseberry

Biological source: obtained from fruit of emblica officicainalis or Phyllanthus emblica

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Morphological Character

Colour: Fresh fruit: greenish yellow; Dried fruit: brownish black

Oduor: Slight, characteristic

Taste:      Sour, astringent, with slight sweetness and bitterness

Size:        1.3 – 2.5 cm in diameter, globose

Shape:     Globular, with 6 vertical furrows (lobes)

Surface:  Smooth, glossy in fresh fruit

Active constituents

  • Tannins (Emblicanin A & B, Punigluconin, Pedunculagin)
  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) – stable in dried fruit
  • Gallic acid, Ellagic acid
  • Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)
  • Pectin, amino acids, minerals

Therapeutic Uses

  • Antioxidant, immunomodulatory
  • Digestive tonic, hepatoprotective
  • Antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory

Rita / Reetha (Soapnut)

Figure.No.03 Reetha Plant

Synonyms: Soapnut, Arishtak

Biological Source: Dried fruit of Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.

Family: Sapindaceae

Morphological Characters:

O Round, blackish brown, smooth pericarp, wrinkled after drying.

O Seeds black, hard, shiny.

Active Constituents:

O Saponins (Sapindosides), Sugars, Fatty acids.

Uses:

O Helps to control the dandruff.

O It also promotes the hair growth.[11]

Bhringraj

Figure.No.04 Bhringraj Plant

Synonyms: False Daisy, Kesharaja, Bhangra

Biological Source: It is obtained from the whole plant of Eclipta alba.

Family: Asteraceae.

Morphological Characters:

  • Small, branched, erect/creeping herb,
  • Opposite leaves,
  • Hairy surface,
  • White flower heads.

Active Constituents:

  • Coumestans (Wedelolactone), Alkaloids (Ecliptine), Flavonoids, Polypeptides.

Uses:

  • It is used for the hair growth promoter,
  • It is used as a hepatoprotective,
  • It is also used for anti-inflammatory agent
  • It is also used as a antioxidant.[12]

Shikakai

Figure.No.05 Shikakai Plant

Synonyms: Soap pod, Shik

Biological Source: It is obtained from the dried fruits (Pods) of Acacia conking,

Family: Fabaceae.

Morphological Characters:

O Brown, wrinkled,

O Curved pods containing 6–10 seeds.

O Rough, woody texture.

Active Constituents:

O Saponins, Tannins, Oxalic acid, Citric acid, Malic acid.

Uses:

O It is used for hair cleanser,

O It is used as hair conditioner,

O It is act as a antidandruff.[13]

Aloe

Figure.No.06 Aloe Plant

Synonyms: Ghritkumari, Kumari, Curacao Aloe

Biological Source: It is obtained from dried latex of Aloe barbadensis Miller (syn. Aloe vera

Linn.),

Family: Liliaceae (now Asphodelaceae).

Morphological Characters:

  • Succulent, fleshy leaves, green with spines at margins.
  • Latex is yellowish, bitter in taste.

Active Constituents:

  • Anthraquinone glycosides (Aloin A & B), Aloe-emodin, Resin, Polysaccharides.

Uses:

  • Purgatives,
  • Skin burns
  • Skin disorders,
  • wound healing.[14]

METHODOLOGY

Table No: 01: Chemicals and Reagents

Si. No

Chemicals and reagents

1.

Amla Extract

2.

Bhringraj Extract

3.

Reetha Extract

4.

Shikakai Extract

5.

Curry leaves Extract

6.

Lemon Juice

8.

Aloe vera Extract

9.

Methylparaben

10.

Citric Acid

11.

ethanol

13.

Conc.H2SO4

14.

Ninhydrin Reagent

15.

Wagner’s Reagent

Table No: 02: Apparatus/Equipment’s

Sl.no

Apparatus/equipment’s

  1.  

Beakers 1L,500ml,250ml

  1.  

Test tube

  1.  

Funnel

  1.  

Petri dish

  1.  

Desiccator

  1.  

Water Bath

  1.  

Incubator

  1.  

Refrigerator

  1.  

Cells

  1.  

PH Meter

Preparation Of Plant Extract:

  1. Five clean and dry conical flasks were taken.
  2. 20 g of Amla, Bhringaraj, Reetha, Shikakai, and Curry leaves powder were weighed separately.
  3. Each powder was placed in a separate conical flask.
  4. 100 ml of water was added to each flask.
  5. The flasks were covered with aluminium foil.
  6. All the flasks were kept in a cool and dark place for 24 hours.
  7. After 24 hours, the contents were heated and boiled on a heating mantle for 15–20 minutes.
  8. The mixtures were filtered through muslin cloth.
  9. The filtrates were further filtered using filter paper.
  10. The clear filtrates were poured into separate Petri dishes.
  11. The Petri dishes were placed in a hot air oven at 50 °C.
  12. Heating was continued till all the moisture was removed.
  13. The dried residues obta ined were collected as powdered extr acts.

Figure.No.07 extraction of Amla, Bhringaraj, Reetha, Shikakai

Formulation of herbal shampoo:

  1. Three different herbal shampoo formulation (F1, F2, F3) were developed using aqueous gel-based systems. Each formulation began with 50ml of purified water, into which 0.4g of methylparaben was completely dissolved. A 2% of Aloe vera was incorporated as the gelling agent and allowed to hydrate and swell for 3 hours to form a stable gel base.
  2. Accurately weighed herbal extracts – including Amla, Bhringraj, Shikakai, Reetha and Curry Leaves- were added in varying combinations as shown in the table. These herbs were selected for their proven benefits such as hair strengthening, cleaning, dandruff control, and scalp nourishment.
  3. To enhance pH stability and cleansing efficiency, citric acid was added in small quantities (q.s.), along with lemon juice as a natural source of vitamin C and mild acidifier. The formulation was stirred thoroughly to ensure homogeneity and free of clumps or air bubbles.
  4. All formulation were stored in clean, labeled containers for further evaluation of physical appearance, foaming ability, stability and ph.

Table No: 03. Three different shampoo formulations were prepared as shown in Table

Sr. No.

Ingredients for 100 grams

F1

F2

F3

1

Amla

2.5

-

2.5

2

Bhringraj

-

2.5

2.5

3

Reetha

5

5

5

4

Shikakai

-

2.5

2.5

5

Curry leaves

2.5

-

2.5

6

Lemon juice

1

1

1

7

Methylparaben

0.8

0.8

0.8

8

Citric acid

Q.S

Q.S

Q.S

9

Aloe vera

Q.S

Q.S

Q.S

Flow Chart:

Evaluation of formulated herbal shampoo:

  1. Physical appearance (organoleptic evaluation): -

The first step in shampoo evaluation is assessing its appearance, color, & clarity, which influence consumer acceptability.

  1. PH: -

To determine the shampoos acidity / basicity which affect the scalp and hair health. mix 1g of shampoo with 10 ml distilled water measure PH using a calibrated pH metre.

  1. Dirt Dispersion Test: -

This test evaluates the efficacy of shampoo in removing a dirt and oily substances from hair. 1% solution of shampoo (1g in 100ml water) is prepared and one drop of India ink added. The solution is shaken and ink distribution is observed.

  1. Foaming ability and foaming stability: -

The cylinder shake method is the most widely used method for determining foaming ability. A 250ml graduated cylinder was filled with 10 ml of shampoo solution at room temperature, covered by a hand and shaken 10 times, following 60 seconds of shaking, the total amount of the foam content was noted. The height of the foam that was produced was measured right way. The same process was used to measure the foam volume after 20 minutes in order to access forms stability.

  1. Surface Tension Measurement: -

Shampoo was taken in the beaker and then slowly added distilled water. mixing of shampoo and water to measure the surface tension by using stalagmometer or tensiometer. Should significantly reduce water surface tension.

  1. Conditioning performance: -

Conditioning property determines how smooth, soft and manageable the hair feel after shampooing. Hair samples are washed with shampoo solution compared with the control (hair wash only with water) smoothness, softness and ease of combing are evaluated by volunteers.

  1. Rheological Evaluation (Viscosity Test): -

Viscosity of liquid is determined by using a capillary viscometer i.e. Ostwald viscometer.

  1. Percentage Of Solid Content: -

Determines the amount of dissolved or suspended solids in the shampoo. Too high or low can affect performance and stability. Weigh 4g of shampoo in a dish and heat in a water bath(100'C) until all water evaporates then cool and reweigh.

  1. Skin Irritation: -

Prepared shampoo was applied on skin for 5 minutes after washed and test for irritation or

Figure.No.08 evaluation parameters of Amalaki, Shikakai, Curry Leaves, Reetha

RESULTS

Preliminary phytochemical screening

The outcomes acquired from the phytochemical examination on ethanolic extract of parthenium Vitis vinifera leaves executed the presence of carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids, alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, phytosterols, glycosides, saponins and oils and fats.

Table no: 04 phytochemical screening of Amla, Bhringaraj, Reetha, Shikakai

Sr. No

Phytochemical Components

Test

Ethanolic extract of

Amla,

Bhringaraj

Reetha

Shikakai

1

Carbohydrates

Molisch’s test

+

+

+

-

Benedict’s test

+

+

+

-

Fehling’s test

+

+

+

-

2

Proteins and amino acids

Ninhydrin’s test

+

+

+

+

Xanthoproteic test

+

-

+

+

3

Alkaloids

Dragendrof’s test

+

+

+

+

Wagner’s test

+

+

+

+

Hager’s test

+

+

-

+

Mayers test

+

-

+

+

4

Phenols

Ferric chloride test

+

+

-

+

Lead acetate test

+

+

-

+

5

Flavonoids

Shinoda test

+

-

-

-

Alkaline reagent test

-

-

-

-

Sodium hydroxide

+

+

-

-

6

Phytosterols

Salkowski test

+

+

+

+

Liebermann Burchard’s Test

+

+

+

+

7

Glycosides

Keller kilani test

-

-

-

+

Noah test

-

-

-

-

Baljit test

-

-

-

+

3,5 dinitro benzoic test

-

-

-

+

 

 

 

Table no: 09 phytochemical screening of Amla   Shikakai, Curry Leaves, Reetha          

Now a days many synthetic, herbal, medicated and nonmedicated shampoos are available in the market but popularity of herbal shampoo among consumers is on rise because of their belief that these products being of natural origin are safe and free from side effect. We have formulated herbal shampoo which contain bhrinraj, amla, shikakai, reetha and curry leaves. These herbal ingredients are very essential for hair which promote hair growth and stimulates the formulation of new and healthy hair roots, hair cleaning property, and provide conditioning effect.

Table No: 05. Evaluation Parameters:

Parameters

F1

F2

F3

Physical Appearance

Brown and viscous

Brown and viscous

Brown and viscous

Foaming Stability and Ability

5ml and stable for more than 5 min

5ml and stable for more than 5 min

5ml and stable for more than 5 min

pH

6.4 ± 0.5

6.4 ± 0.5

6.4 ± 0.5

Dirt Dispersion

Passes

Passes

Passes

Surface Tension

36.05dy/cc

36.05dy/cc

36.05dy/cc

Rheological Studies

10.75 milipoise

11.902 milipoise

10.42 milipoise

% Of Solid Contents

6.83%

7.14%

6.60%

Conditioning Effect

Passes

Passes

Passes

  1. Physical appearance: - The hair preparation as a shampoo should have good appeal and physical appearance. The formulated herbal shampoo was evaluated for physical characteristics such as color and transparency (Table 5). All samples were observed for their physical appearance/ visual inspection, thus having a good physical appearance is important. The physical appearance of the formulated herbal shampoos was brown and viscous; it is more or less similar to the three formulations.
  2. Foaming ability: - It is considered to be important parameter as foaming or lathering is very important to the consumer in evaluation of shampoo. Foam production has little to do with cleansing activity in evaluating shampoo. The shampoo showed good foaming properties, the foam produced was 5ml and it was stable for more than 5 minutes for all the three formulated herbal shampoos.
  3. pH: - Most shampoos formulated were either neutral or slightly basic. The pH of shampoo helps in minimizing the damage to hair and irritation of the eyes. The formulated shampoos pH found to be acidic, which makes hair smoothen. Cause the cuticle (outer layer) of the hair to shrink and lie flatter on the hair shaft.
  4. Dirt dispersion: - The important criteria for evaluation of cleansing action of shampoo. The dirt that stays in foam is difficult to rinse away and gets re-deposited on the hair. For achieving better cleansing action, the dirt should remain in water portion. This test revealed that ink was disappeared and test was passed for all the formulated shampoos.
  5. Measurement of Surface Tension: - The presence of surfactant in shampoo to reduce surface tension. Stronger the cleansing action lesser the surface tension of shampoo. A proper shampoo should be able to decrease the surface tension of pure water to about 40 dynes/cc it is one of the main mechanisms of detergency. The reduction in surface tension of water from 72.8 dynes/cc to 34 dynes/cc by the herbal shampoos, is an indication of their good detergent action.
  6. Rheological evaluation: - Viscosity is the thickness or stickiness of liquid. Product viscosity plays an important role in defining and controlling many attributes such as shelf life stability. Spreadability of shampoo on the hair and viscosity revealed the shampoo was having optimum viscosity.
  7. Percentage of Solid Content: - Good shampoos have 20% - 30% solid content, it is easy to be applied and rinse out from the hair.If a shampoo has too many solids, it will be difficult to work it into the hair or wash it out. If it does not have enough solids, it will be too watery and will wash away quickly.The formulated herbal shampoo was found within the range and are expected to wash out easily.
  8. Conditioning Effect: - The shampoo’s conditioning performance was based on the mean scores of student referees. On conditioning performance evaluation done by 30 blind folded students, F3 formulation was concluded to have a better conditioning effect and shinning as compared to F1 and F2.

DISCUSSION: -

1. Herbal shampoos are preferred over synthetic shampoos due to their natural ingredients and minimal chemical side effects.

2. The use of plant extracts like Amla, Bhringraj, Shikakai, Reetha, and Curry leaves provides nourishment and strengthens hair naturally.

3. Aloe vera in the formulation acts as a natural moisturizer, improving hair texture and scalp hydration.

4. Methylparaben serves as a preservative, preventing microbial growth and increasing shelf life.

5. Boiling and filtration of herbal extracts ensure removal of impurities while retaining active phytochemicals.

6. pH adjustment using citric acid and lemon juice ensures the shampoo is compatible with scalp and hair, preventing irritation.

7. Hydration and proper mixing of ingredients allow uniform distribution of bioactive compounds throughout the shampoo.

8. Drying of extracts before incorporation concentrates the active constituents, enhancing the shampoo’s efficacy.

9. Evaluation parameters like foam formation, stability, and appearance indicate the quality and consumer acceptability of the product.

10. The prepared herbal shampoos are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and safe for regular use, promoting hair health naturally.

CONCULSION: -

The aim of this study was to formulate herbal shampoo for better cleaning and conditioning effect. By using plant extracts such as; amla, curry leaves, soapnut, and bhringraj extract for their hair cleansing actions. All the ingredients used in formulation of herbal shampoo were safe. Several tests were performed to evaluate the physicochemical properties. The evaluation of shampoo showed ideal results such as all the formulations having the good physical appearance, pH, viscosity, foaming ability, foaming stability, and conditioning effect. The conditioning performance and shinning of F3 formulation shows better results when compared to F1 and F2 formulation.

Summary

  1. Five herbal powders—Amla, Bhringraj, Shikakai, Reetha, and Curry leaves—were selected for shampoo formulation due to their known hair-nourishing properties.
  2. Each herbal powder (20 g) was extracted using 100 ml of distilled water by maceration for 24 hours in a cool, dark place.
  3. The extracts were then heated on a heating mantle for 15–20 minutes to ensure maximum release of active phytochemicals.
  4. Filtration was performed using muslin cloth followed by filter paper to obtain clear aqueous extracts.
  5. The filtrates were dried in a hot air oven at 50?°C until complete removal of moisture to yield powdered extracts.
  6. A gel base was prepared using 50 ml of purified water, 0.4 g Methylparaben as a preservative, and 2% Aloe vera gel.
  7. The gel base was hydrated for 3 hours to achieve proper consistency.
  8. The powdered herbal extracts were incorporated into the gel base and mixed thoroughly for uniform distribution.
  9. Citric acid (q.s.) and lemon juice were added to adjust the pH, making the shampoo scalp-friendly.
  10. The final herbal shampoo formulations were poured into clean containers and labeled as F1, F2, and F3.
  11. Appearance of the shampoo formulations was evaluated for color, clarity, and homogeneity.
  12. Foam formation was assessed to determine the cleansing and lathering ability of the herbal shampoos.
  13. Stability studies indicated that the formulations remained homogeneous without phase separation over the study period.
  14. pH evaluation confirmed the formulations were within the safe range for scalp and hair health.
  15. Aloe vera acted as a natural moisturizer, enhancing hair texture and preventing dryness.
  16. Amla and Bhringraj extracts contributed to hair strengthening and nourishment.

REFERENCE

  1. Kirtikar KR, Basu BD. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Dehradun: International Book Distributors; 1987. p. 1234-6.
  2. Nadkarni KM. Indian Materia Medica. Vol. 1. Bombay: Popular Prakashan; 2002. p. 54-7.
  3. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Part I, Vol. I–VI. New Delhi: Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India; 2001–2010.
  4. Kokate CK, Purohit AP, Gokhale SB. Pharmacognosy. 51st ed. Pune: Nirali Prakashan; 2021.
  5. Trease GE, Evans WC. Pharmacognosy. 16th ed. London: Saunders Elsevier; 2009.
  6. Harborne JB. Phytochemical Methods: A Guide to Modern Techniques of Plant Analysis. 3rd ed. London: Chapman and Hall; 1998.
  7. Mukherjee PK. Quality Control of Herbal Drugs: An Approach to Evaluation of Botanicals. 2nd ed. New Delhi: Business Horizons; 2019.
  8. World Health Organization. Quality Control Methods for Medicinal Plant Materials. Geneva: WHO; 2011.
  9. Anonymous. Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products. Vol. I–X. New Delhi: CSIR; 1948–1976.
  10. Evans WC. Trease and Evans’ Pharmacognosy. 15th ed. London: WB Saunders; 2002.
  11. Brain KR, Turner TD. The Practical Evaluation of Phytopharmaceuticals. Bristol: Wright-Scientechnica; 1975.
  12. Tyler VE, Brady LR, Robbers JE. Pharmacognosy. 9th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1988.
  13. Sharma PC, Yelne MB, Dennis TJ. Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda. Vol. 1–3. New Delhi: CCRAS; 2001.
  14. Chopra RN, Nayar SL, Chopra IC. Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. New Delhi: CSIR; 1956.
  15. Sofowora A. Medicinal Plants and Traditional Medicine in Africa. 2nd ed. Ibadan: Spectrum Books; 1993.
  16. Jain SK. Medicinal Plants. New Delhi: National Book Trust; 1996.
  17. Gupta AK, Tandon N. Reviews on Indian Medicinal Plants. Vol. 1–5. New Delhi: ICMR; 2004.
  18. Cseke LJ, Kirakosyan A, Kaufman PB, et al. Natural Products from Plants. 2nd ed. Boca Raton: CRC Press; 2006.
  19. Evans WC. Pharmacognosy. 14th ed. London: WB Saunders; 1996.
  20. Wagner H, Bladt S. Plant Drug Analysis: A Thin Layer Chromatography Atlas. 2nd ed. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1996.
  21. Wallis TE. Textbook of Pharmacognosy. 5th ed. New Delhi: CBS Publishers; 2005.
  22. Handa SS, Kaul MK. Supplement to Cultivation and Utilization of Medicinal Plants. Jammu-Tawi: RRL; 1996.
  23. Rastogi RP, Mehrotra BN. Compendium of Indian Medicinal Plants. Vol. 1–6. New Delhi: CDRI & NISCAIR; 1990–1998.
  24. Khare CP. Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary. New Delhi: Springer; 2007.
  25. Anonymous. Pharmacopoeia of India (The Indian Pharmacopoeia). Vol. I–III. Ghaziabad: Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission; 2014.

Reference

  1. Kirtikar KR, Basu BD. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Dehradun: International Book Distributors; 1987. p. 1234-6.
  2. Nadkarni KM. Indian Materia Medica. Vol. 1. Bombay: Popular Prakashan; 2002. p. 54-7.
  3. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Part I, Vol. I–VI. New Delhi: Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India; 2001–2010.
  4. Kokate CK, Purohit AP, Gokhale SB. Pharmacognosy. 51st ed. Pune: Nirali Prakashan; 2021.
  5. Trease GE, Evans WC. Pharmacognosy. 16th ed. London: Saunders Elsevier; 2009.
  6. Harborne JB. Phytochemical Methods: A Guide to Modern Techniques of Plant Analysis. 3rd ed. London: Chapman and Hall; 1998.
  7. Mukherjee PK. Quality Control of Herbal Drugs: An Approach to Evaluation of Botanicals. 2nd ed. New Delhi: Business Horizons; 2019.
  8. World Health Organization. Quality Control Methods for Medicinal Plant Materials. Geneva: WHO; 2011.
  9. Anonymous. Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products. Vol. I–X. New Delhi: CSIR; 1948–1976.
  10. Evans WC. Trease and Evans’ Pharmacognosy. 15th ed. London: WB Saunders; 2002.
  11. Brain KR, Turner TD. The Practical Evaluation of Phytopharmaceuticals. Bristol: Wright-Scientechnica; 1975.
  12. Tyler VE, Brady LR, Robbers JE. Pharmacognosy. 9th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1988.
  13. Sharma PC, Yelne MB, Dennis TJ. Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda. Vol. 1–3. New Delhi: CCRAS; 2001.
  14. Chopra RN, Nayar SL, Chopra IC. Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. New Delhi: CSIR; 1956.
  15. Sofowora A. Medicinal Plants and Traditional Medicine in Africa. 2nd ed. Ibadan: Spectrum Books; 1993.
  16. Jain SK. Medicinal Plants. New Delhi: National Book Trust; 1996.
  17. Gupta AK, Tandon N. Reviews on Indian Medicinal Plants. Vol. 1–5. New Delhi: ICMR; 2004.
  18. Cseke LJ, Kirakosyan A, Kaufman PB, et al. Natural Products from Plants. 2nd ed. Boca Raton: CRC Press; 2006.
  19. Evans WC. Pharmacognosy. 14th ed. London: WB Saunders; 1996.
  20. Wagner H, Bladt S. Plant Drug Analysis: A Thin Layer Chromatography Atlas. 2nd ed. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1996.
  21. Wallis TE. Textbook of Pharmacognosy. 5th ed. New Delhi: CBS Publishers; 2005.
  22. Handa SS, Kaul MK. Supplement to Cultivation and Utilization of Medicinal Plants. Jammu-Tawi: RRL; 1996.
  23. Rastogi RP, Mehrotra BN. Compendium of Indian Medicinal Plants. Vol. 1–6. New Delhi: CDRI & NISCAIR; 1990–1998.
  24. Khare CP. Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary. New Delhi: Springer; 2007.
  25. Anonymous. Pharmacopoeia of India (The Indian Pharmacopoeia). Vol. I–III. Ghaziabad: Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission; 2014.

Photo
Mallayya Swami
Corresponding author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Mahalaxmi Hipparagi
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Apsana N.
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Apsanabegum B.
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Asifa M.
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Bhagyashree U.
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Photo
Amoghhasidda T.
Co-author

Shri Sharanbasveshwar College of Pharmacy, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India.

Mallayya Swami*, Mahalaxmi Hipparagi, Amoghhasidda T., Apsana N., Apsanabegum B., Asifa M., Bhagyashree U., Formulation and evaluation of herbal shampoo, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 9, 2896-2906 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17197579

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