Development of a multi-extract polyherbal shampoo targeting Malassezia-associated dandruff: formulation optimization, antifungal screening and performance evaluation
Keywords:
Polyherbal shampoo, Anti-dandruff formulation, Malassezia; Antifungal activity, FT-IR analysis, HPLC standardization, Herbal extracts, Natural surfactantsAbstract
Dandruff is a chronic scalp disorder primarily associated with the proliferation of Malassezia species, leading to itching, flaking, and inflammation. The present study aimed to develop and standardize a polyherbal anti-dandruff shampoo with effective antifungal activity using selected medicinal plants traditionally known for scalp and hair care. Extracts of Punicagranatum, Azadirachtaindica, Murrayakoenigii, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Sapindusmukorossi, Acacia concinna, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Citrus sinensis were prepared using suitable aqueous and hydroalcoholic extraction methods.
The antifungal activity of individual extracts and formulated shampoos was evaluated against dandruff-associated fungal strains using the disc diffusion method. Based on base optimization studies, an optimized formulation was developed incorporating triethanol lauryl sulphate as a surfactant and methyl paraben as a preservative. The prepared polyherbal shampoo was evaluated for physicochemical properties including pH, viscosity, foam stability, wetting ability, cleaning efficiency, and ocular safety.
Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. FT-IR analysis demonstrated the presence of characteristic functional groups and confirmed the compatibility between herbal extracts and formulation excipients. HPLC analysis was performed for standardization using gallic acid, quercetin, and glycyrrhizin as marker compounds, showing well-resolved peaks and good linearity. Quantitative estimation revealed significant amounts of marker compounds, supporting the antifungal and anti-inflammatory potential of the formulation.
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