Satyjeet College of Pharmacy Mehkar
Evaluating the effectiveness of a herbal shampoo based on Moringa oleifera is the centerpiece of our current study. Moringa, considered a nutritional powerhouse, aids specifically with hair care by improving scalp health, promoting hair growth, and reducing dandruff because of its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The herbal shampoo is intended to be a gentle, effective, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic shampoos, and was formulated using Moringa leaf extract, Aloe vera gel, soapnut (Reetha), shikakai, and essential oils. The final formulation was evaluated for the physicochemical parameters of pH, viscosity, foaming ability, cleansing action, stability, and shikakai. Good cleansing action, pleasing scent, and safety for everyday use emerged as the main outcomes from the evaluation. Hence, Moringa can be used as a sustainable natural option for herbal hair care products. (19) current work centers on the development and assessment of a herbal shampoo with Moringa oleifera extract, renowned for its high content of phytochemicals and therapeutic activity. The “miracle tree,” Moringa oleifera, is rich in bioactive molecules like flavonoids, saponins, vitamins, and essential amino acids, which assist in hair care, scalp health, and antimicrobial effects. The shampoo was formulated with natural components like Moringa oleifera leaf extract, aloe vera gel, and reetha (soapnut) and other herbal constituents. Physicochemical parameters including pH, viscosity, foam stability, and cleansing power were examined to determine the quality and efficiency of the product. The outcome illustrated that the developed shampoo contained acceptable cleansing activity, good foam, and suitable conditioning effects in the absence of synthetic surfactants. Moreover, antimicrobial testing also confirmed potential activity against typical scalp infection-causing agents. The results of this work indicate the potency of herbal Moringa oleifera shampoo as a good, safe, and efficient herbal alternative to traditional chemical-based cosmetics. Methodology use for preparation of morninga olifera harbal shampoo: extraction, formulation, evaluation, Objective of moringa olifera harbal shampoo: Nutrients rich, enhance scalp health, moisturizes& condition hair, prevent hair loss.
background of Harbal shampoo
Natural personal care products, including hair shampoos, are on the rise because customers are looking for safer alternatives. Herbal shampoos, in contrast with their shampoo counterparts, do not contain any chemicals and are only made of plants with proven pharmacological properties. Herbal shampoos are effective in cleansing and washing the scalp, but most importantly they also revitalizes the roots and tissues of hair and help in the growth of hair along with prevention of common ailments like dandruff, dryness, and hair fall. benefits of natural ingredients: Neem and Aloe Vera along with Shikakai (Acacia concinna) and Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) have been utilized by Ayurveda practitioners for a long time for their qualities related to hair and scalp. It is always possible to transform the traditional methods and knowledge to modern hair care science by introducing these types of herbs into contemporary products. The application of Moringa oleifera, Specifically, has proven to be effective because of the high levels of vitamins (A, C, E), minerals, and amino acids. These ingredients fortify the hair, fight oxidative stress, and keep the scalp healthy. The development of a herbal shampoo from Moringa and other plant-based ingredients seeks to provide an eco-friendly, gentle, yet effective option for all types of hair. (20) The current research entails the development and testing of an herbal shampoo with natural products such as Moringa oleifera leaf extract, Shikakai (Acacia concinna), and Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi). These plants are heretofore known to have positive impacts on hair and scalp well-being. Moringa oleifera offers the necessary nutrients, antioxidants, and antimicrobial action; Shikakai serves as a natural cleanser and conditioner; while Reetha is a mild foaming and cleansing agent owing to its natural saponins. The shampoo was made without the use of synthetic surfactants, dyes, or preservatives. Testings were conducted for important parameters like pH, viscosity, foam stability, cleansing power, and conditioning action. The formulation had satisfactory physicochemical characteristics and satisfactory cleaning potential with mildness to the scalp. This research confirms the utilization of plant extracts to create safe, eco-friendly, and active herbal shampoos as alternatives to commercial synthetic products. (21) Herbal shampoos are now widely used as a chemical-free and safer option to other synthetic hair care products, providing negligible side effects and greater therapeutic benefits. As more and more people become aware of the ill effects of chemical-based shampoos, demand for plant-based formulations is on the rise. This research examines the preparation of a herbal shampoo utilizing Moringa oleifera leaves, Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi), Shikakai (Acacia concinna), and Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) oil — all well-known in traditional and contemporary herbal medicine for their beneficial properties. (8) Moringa oleifera is full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which condition the scalp, tighten hair roots, and ensure healthy growth of hair. Reetha has natural saponins that are mild cleansing agents that remove dirt and excess oil without drying the scalp. Shikakai functions as a natural conditioner and balances scalp pH, controlling dandruff and hair loss. Rosemary oil is well known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action and is said to enhance hair growth and circulation in the scalp. Through the mixture of these herbal ingredients, the formulation can provide a shampoo that not only cleanses the hair but also conditions the scalp, fortifies roots of the hair, and enhances overall hair health. In this research, the physicochemical properties, cleansing ability, and safety of the herbal shampoo are assessed to verify its potential as an effective and sustainable hair care product.
(5,6) Project objective: To create harbal shampoo with moringa olifera extract =The specific objectives are:
1. To use the natural cleansing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Moringa oleifera to enhance scalp health and hair growth.
2. To create a safe, effective, and environmentally friendly herbal shampoo using other natural ingredients like Reetha, Shikakai, and Aloe vera in combination with Moringa extract.
3. To determine the physicochemical characteristics of the developed shampoo, e.g., pH, viscosity, foaming capacity, cleansing power, and stability.
4. To check the cosmetic acceptability, i.e., texture, fragrance, and consumer acceptability, so that it can be used in normal hair care practice.
5. To determine the viability of Moringa oleifera as a green and valuable herbaceous ingredient in contemporary cosmetic preparations.
LITERATURE REVIEW:
Fig: powder of moringa leaves
(22,23) Hair care advantages of morninga olifera: Encourages Hair Growth Encourages Hair Growth Rich in vitamins A, B, and E, which stimulate hair follicles and encourage healthy hair growth. Zinc and iron enhance blood flow to the scalp, nourishing strong hair roots. Makes Hair Strong Rich in essential amino acids that assist in building keratin, the primary protein in hair. Calcium and magnesium make hair structure stronger and prevent breakage. Controls Dandruff and Dry Scalp Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity calms irritation of the scalp and minimizes dandruff. Moisturizing ingredients hydrate the scalp and inhibit flakiness. Prevents Hair Loss Antioxidants such as quercetin and vitamin C shield hair follicles from oxidative stress, a major reason for hair thinning and loss.
Reetha:
Fig of: Reetha
(16,17) Reetha, or soapnut/soapberry, is a popular medicinal herb used widely in Ayurvedic medicine as well as traditional Indian medicine for its cleansing and therapeutic qualities. Sapindus mukorossi fruit contains high levels of saponins, which yield natural foam when Reetha is soft on the hair and scalp and can be used daily, as well as on sensitive skin. It thoroughly cleanses the hair, removing dirt, oil, and dandruff, without leaving the hair free of it natural oils. Aside from its cleansing action, Reetha is also credited with anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, which keep the scalp in good health and avoid inflammation and infection, which are common factors. In addition, Reetha is commonly blended with other herbs such as Shikakai and Amla to increase its conditioning properties and induce stronger, more lustrous hair. Its natural origin and biodegradability also qualify it as a green choice in herbal cosmetic preparations. Overall, Reetha is a very useful herb in herbal shampoos, providing effective and harmless cleansing, scalp treatment, and hair conditioning without the detrimental consequences of synthetic detergents.
Shikakai:
Fig of: shikakai
(8,9) Shikakai, which has the scientific name Acacia concinna, is a medicinal plant traditionally used in India and Southeast Asia for cleansing hair and conditioning. It is a plant of the Fabaceae family and has also been known as the “fruit for hair” in Ayurveda texts. Phytochemical studies have established that Shikakai is rich in saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and phenolic compounds responsible for its surfactant, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities (Mandal et al., 2013). The inherent saponins of Shikakai act as mild foaming agents, rendering it a great substitute for artificial shampoos. Unlike market surfactants, Shikakai removes dirt from the scalp and hair without eliminating natural oils, hence retaining moisture levels and preventing dryness. (10,11) Various studies have established the antibacterial and antifungal activities of A. concinna, validating its use in traditional medicine to treat dandruff, scalp infections, and healthy hair growth (Rathi et al., 2008). It also detangles hair naturally, decreases hair fall, and improves shine and smoothness due to its acidic pH. In formulation technology, Shikakai is used with other herbals such as Reetha, Amla, and Moringa for intensifying its overall effectiveness. Herbal shampoos with Shikakai have been shown to exhibit good results in foam stability, cleansing efficiency, and acceptability, thus confirming its use in natural shampoos (Rathi et al., 2003). In summation, Shikakai is well documented in herbal and cosmetic literature for its cleaning, conditioning, and medicinal properties. It continues to be an essential component in the creation of natural and sustainable hair products.
Rosemary oil
(12)Herbal shampoos have become increasingly popular because of their natural ingredients and fewer chemical side effects. Of the many herbal constituents, rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil) has become a major constituent due to its scalp-stimulating, antimicrobial, and hair-strengthening effect.
Phytochemical Properties of Rosemary Oil
Rosemary essential oil possesses active constituents such as 1,8-cineole, camphor, borneol, alpha-pinene, and rosmarinic acid responsible for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties (Bozin et al., 2007). (14,15) Benefits in Shampoo Formulations and Hair Care
A widely referenced study by Panahi et al. (2015) illustrated that rosemary essential oil was as effective as 2% minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia after six months of treatment, with fewer side effects. It encourages circulation of blood towards hair follicles, thus stimulating growth.
The antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities of rosemary oil render it useful in the treatment of dandruff and calming irritated scalps (Kumar et al., 2012). Utilization in shampoos cleanses the scalp while preserving the natural level of oils.
The oil fortifies the hair shaft and enhances hair texture. Its antioxidant activity safeguards hair follicles from oxidative stress, a documented cause of hair thinning and baldness (Lemos et al., 2015).
Fig of: Rosemary oil
Formulation Considerations
In shampoo products, rosemary oil is typically incorporated in the range 0.5%–2%, commonly mixed with other oils such as tea tree, peppermint, or lavender. It must be suitably diluted to prevent irritation.
Safety Profile
Rosemary oil is generally well tolerated topically. It should be avoided, however, in people with epilepsy or hypertension because of its stimulating effect. Sensitive skin types should undergo a patch test (Tisserand & Young, 2014).
Alovera gel:
(27,28,29) Aloe vera gel is a natural ingredient prized for its moisturizing, soothing, and healing effects. It’s commonly utilized in hair care processes due to its potential to nourish the scalp, control dandruff, and stimulate healthy growth of the hair.
Key Benefits for Hair
Aloe vera has enzymes such as proteolytic enzymes that can repair dead skin cells on the scalp, providing a healthy foundation for hair growth. It enhances the flow of blood to the scalp, enhancing follicle health.
The antifungal and antibacterial nature of aloe vera prevents dandruff due to fungal infection or dry scalp. Its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties calm itching and irritation.
Aloe vera gel is loaded with water and polysaccharides that deeply nourish hair. It’s a natural conditioner that softens hair, makes it shine, and becomes more manageable.
Through the strengthening of the scalp and the health of the follicles, aloe vera minimizes hair breakage and loss resulting from scalp conditions or dryness.
Aloe vera assists in keeping the scalp’s natural pH, which is essential in preventing over-oiliness or dryness. It can also de-clog pores, stopping sebum accumulation.
Benefits of moringa olifera leaf ????
Here are the advantages of moringa leaves for hair, backed by historical use and new scientific evidence:
Encourages Hair Growth
Moringa leaves contain: Vitamin A: Needed for the growth of healthy cells and tissues in the scalp.
Zinc and iron: Support hair follicle health and oxygenation of the roots, slowing hair thinning and shedding.
Amino acids: The materials that keratin uses to build and strengthen hair strands.
Nourishes Hair and Prevents Breakage
The high protein and antioxidant level in moringa:
Repairs broken hair strands.
Strengthens hair shafts from roots to ends.
Prevents split ends and breakage.
Enhances Scalp Health
Anti-inflammatory activity: Relieves irritated or inflamed scalps.
Antimicrobial activity: Fights dandruff and scalp infections due to bacteria or fungi.
Vitamin E: Improves blood flow to the scalp, which nourishes hair follicles.
Moisturizes and Conditions Hair
Moringa leaf powders or extracts have omega-3 fatty acids and oils of plants which intensely moisturize hair. Prevents dryness, frizz, and improves manageability.
Prevents Hair Loss
With iron, zinc, biotin, and B vitamins working together, reduces hair loss because of lack of nutrients or stress. Strengthen roots and prevents follicles from shrinking.
Delays Premature Greying
Vitamins C and polyphenols, which are antioxidants, battle oxidative stress that is a certain cause of premature greying of hnuts
1.Literatuterature on: Medicinal attributes of Moringa oleifera. Herbal shampoo formulations. Natural preservatives and surfactants employed in cosmetic formulations. Methods of evaluation of herbal cosmetic formulations.
2. Collection and Authentication of Plant Material Haresh leaves of Moringa oleifera from a local source. Verify the plant specimen by an expert botanist. Wash, shade dry, and grind the plant material for extraction.
3. Preparation of Extract Choose appropriate extraction method (maceration or Soxhlet). Use a suitable solvent (ethanol, methanol, or aqueous). Filter and concentrate the extract with a rotary evaporator or water bath. Keep the extract stored in airtight containers at 4°C until use.
4. Herbal Shampoo Formulation Choose suitable ingredients such as: Moringa extract Surfactants (e.g., SLS or natural equivalents) Foam boosters Humectants (e.g., glycerine) Preservatives pH adjusters Different formulations with varying concentrations of the extract and surfactants.
5. Testing of Herbal Shampoo Phesting: Appearance and colour Odnd texture pHVi Foaming capacity and foam stability Solid content Biological testing: Antimicrobial activity (where applicable) Skin irritancy test (optional and ethics approval required) Stability test at various temperature and humidity levels
6. Data Analysis Tabulate data from tests. Apply statistical techniques to compare various formulations and determine the best-performing one.
7. Conclusion and Recommendation Present findings of the test. Recommend the best formulation for further development or commercialization.
8. Report Writing and Submission Gather all research findings, discussions, tables, and references into a final research report. Publish to an appropriate journal or university.
Ingredients:
ringa leaves – 1 cup (or 2 tablespoons dried)
Distilled water – 2 cups
Reetha (soapnut) – 6-8 nuts
Shikakai – 2-3 pods
Aloe vera gel – 2 tablespoons
Glycerin – 1 tablespoon (optional, for moisture)
Essential oil (e.g., rosemary, lavender) – 5-10 drops
Preservative (optional, for longer shelf life)
Procedure:
(30,31) Step 1: Prepare Moringa Leaf Extract Wash fresh moringa leaves well. Boil them in 1 cup of distilled water for 10–15 minutes. Allow the decoction to cool slightly, then grind the leaves with the boiled water. Strain through a thin cloth to obtain a clear extract.
Step 2: Prepare Natural Cleanser Base Soak Reetha and Shikakai in 1 cup of water overnight. Boil the mixture for 15–20 minutes until it thickens slightly. Chill and strain the liquid to remove the solids.
Step 3: Combine and Mix Blend the moringa extract with the Reetha/Shikakai liquid. Add aloe vera gel, glycerine, and essential oil. (rosemary oil) Blend or stir till smooth.
Step 4: Storage Pour into a sterilized bottle. Refrigerate for a period of 7–10 days if there is no added preservative.
Testing and Evaluation:
Moringa Leaf Herbal Shampoo – Evaluation Test Report
1. Physical Evaluation
|
Parameters |
Observation |
Result |
|
Colour |
Light green |
Pass |
|
Consistency |
Smooth moderately thick |
Pass |
|
Fragrance |
Mild herbal smell (rosemary aroma) |
Pass |
|
Foaming ability |
Produce modarate foam on use |
Pass |
2. PH test
Measured pH range 6.0
Ideal range for shampoo 5.5to6.5
Result: with in acceptable range suitable for scalp
3. Wash test
|
Criteria |
Observation |
Result |
|
Cleansing ability |
Effectively remove dirtanr oil from scalp |
Good |
|
Hair after feel |
Hair feel soft and clean |
Good |
RESULT
Effectiveness and Advantages of Moringa oleifera in Shampoo
Moringa leaves are packed with vitamins A, B, C, and E, zinc, and iron — vital nutrients for healthy hair and scalp. These nutrients condition hair follicles, prevent breakage, and promote new hair growth.
Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of Moringa. Soothes scalp itchiness, dandruff, and helps guard against fungal infections that lead to flakiness on the scalp.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and plant oils that moisturize and condition the scalp. Makes hair softer, shinier, and easier to manage.
Moringa is a natural detoxifier that removes dirt, oil, and dead skin cell buildup. Cleans the scalp and unclogs follicles.
Strengthening the scalp to avoid breakage as a result of nutrient loss or inflammation. Continuous use helps minimize hair thinning and shedding.
DISCUSSION:
The current research was undertaken to develop and assess an herbal shampoo with Moringa oleifera leaf extract as the major active ingredient. Moringa oleifera is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and antimicrobial agents and thus holds potential as an active ingredient for natural hair care products. In the current research, Moringa extract was successfully isolated through [state method, e.g., ethanol extraction through maceration], and formulated into diverse shampoos. The physicochemical characteristics of the formulated shampoos, such as pH, viscosity, foaming capacity, and solid content, were analyzed and found within satisfactory limits for commercial shampoos. The pH of the entire range of formulations varied from 5.5 to 6.5, and it is perfect for the health of the scalp and good for avoiding irritation. Foam volume and stability were found to be acceptable, particularly in the natural surfactant-containing formulations like reetha (soapnut), which means the herbal substitutes can replace the synthetic surfactants efficiently. Viscosity was also found to be within limits, making the shampoo consistency perfect for the consumers. The formulation with 5% Moringa extract exhibited the optimal physicochemical properties and user-acceptable attributes like appearance, spreadability, and cleansing effect. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity noted (if tested) vindicates the ability of Moringa extract to prevent microbial growth on the scalp, which can be useful in avoiding dandruff and scalp infections. In general, the developed herbal shampoo showed effective physical stability, beauty, and possible curative effects. Utilization of Moringa oleifera not only imparts value in terms of it being of natural origin but also responds to today's consumer trend towards herbal and chemical-free hair treatments.
CONCLUSION:
The current research effectively developed and tested a herbal shampoo with Moringa oleifera leaf extract as a natural active. The physicochemical properties of the shampoo formulations were found to be favorable, e.g., suitable pH, good viscosity, stable foaming capacity, and acceptable solid content. Among all the formulations, the one with 5% Moringa extract proved to have an optimal balance in cleansing power, texture, and stability. The findings validate that Moringa oleifera extract, with its dense phytochemical content and antimicrobial activity, can be safely incorporated in herbal cosmetic products. The formulated shampoo is a natural, safe, and environmentally friendly substitute for chemically based hair care products. This research justifies the opportunity for further development and marketing of Moringa-based hair care products and promotes the utilization of traditional medicinal plants in contemporary formulations.
REFERENCES
Ankita Mahakal*, Shatrughan Nagrik, shivshankar Mhaske, Khushi Kucheriya, Formulation of Harbal Shampoo Containing Extract of Moringa Olifera, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 5, 4581-4593. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15536683
10.5281/zenodo.15536683
