Physicochemical and In Vivo Analysis of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Extract Hair Tonic as a Natural Hair Growth Alternative
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Hair loss is a common condition affecting both men and women and often diminishes quality of life. While synthetic agents like minoxidil are widely used to promote hair growth, their application is frequently associated with adverse side effects, highlighting the need for safer natural alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) extract in hair tonic preparations on hair growth and the product's physicochemical characteristics. Rosemary essential oil was extracted using steam distillation, then formulated into hair tonic at various concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%), and compared with 2% minoxidil as a positive control. Physicochemical characterization included pH measurement, viscosity, and compound analysis using GC-MS. Hair growth activity was tested in vivo using male Wistar rats for 4 weeks, with hair length and weight as parameters. The results showed that all formulations had a pH of 4.18–4.75, corresponding to the physiological pH of the scalp. Viscosity increased with increasing rosemary extract concentration. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of key compounds such as ?-myrcene, 1,8-cineole, and geraniol, which play a role in biological activity. In vivo testing showed that the 15% formulation produced the highest hair length (16.73 ± 1.97 mm), surpassing 2% minoxidil (10.02 ± 1.83 mm), while the 10% concentration produced the highest hair weight (87.083 ± 30.870 mg/cm²). Furthermore, no signs of irritation were observed in the rosemary group, while skin side effects were observed in the minoxidil group. It can be concluded that rosemary extract has the potential to be a natural active ingredient in an effective and safe hair tonic preparation to stimulate hair growth. A 10% concentration is recommended as the optimal formulation based on the balance between hair length and quality produced
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SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
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