Formulation and Evaluation of a Polyherbal Hair Oil Based on Ayurvedic Principles for Scalp and Hair Health

Abstract

Hair care is vital for both health and aesthetics, and Ayurveda traditionally advocates herbal oils to strengthen the scalp, prevent hair loss, and maintain hair vitality. Modern cosmetic science has revived these practices, combining them with scientific evaluation to create safe, effective, and sustainable products. This study aimed to develop and assess a polyherbal hair oil using coconut oil as the base, infused with onion, amla, fenugreek, hibiscus, curry leaves, aloe vera, ashwagandha, bhringraj, brahmi, and neem. Each herb was selected for its therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-dandruff, and follicle-stimulating effects. Coconut oil was chosen for its light molecular structure, deep penetration, and affinity for hair proteins. Herbs were infused through controlled heating, filtered, and stored in sterilized containers. The formulation targets multiple scalp and hair concerns, such as androgenic alopecia, dryness, premature greying, microbial infections, and hair shaft weakening, supporting the hair growth cycle (anagen, catagen, telogen) by nourishing follicles and improving scalp circulation. Evaluation included organoleptic and physicochemical testing. The oil exhibited a pleasant odor, greenish-yellow color, non-irritant nature, pH 6.5, density 0.96, sticky viscosity, solubility in non-polar solvents, acid value 3.14 mg KOH/g, and saponification value 7.29 mg KOH/g, indicating stability and safety. Individual herb contributions were evident: amla supplied antioxidants and vitamin C, fenugreek reduced hair fall, hibiscus prevented greying, aloe vera enhanced moisturization, bhringraj and brahmi stimulated follicles, neem acted as an antimicrobial, and onion strengthened roots. The study highlights the advantages of polyherbal oils over single-herb products through synergistic action, improving both therapeutic and cosmetic outcomes, including shine, smoothness, and manageability. As a natural, cost-effective, and biocompatible formulation, it addresses the limitations of synthetic hair products. The developed polyherbal hair oil shows potential as a safe, holistic, and sustainable solution for scalp and hair health, with further biological and clinical studies recommended to validate long-term efficacy.