Herbal insights into melanin synthesis: Enhancing hair health naturally
Abstract
Melanin, a natural pigment found in many organisms, determines skin, hair, and eye colour and protects against UV radiation.
In hair, melanin is synthesized by melanocytes through melanogenesis, involving several enzymatic steps.
There are different types of melanin:
Eumelanin, which provides darker hair tones and stronger UV protection.
Pheomelanin, found in lighter hair and offering less UV resistance, making it more vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Reduced melanin production over time causes hair to grey with age. Beyond colour, melanin supports scalp and hair health, influencing hair growth and vitality — making it crucial for both aesthetic and protective roles in human hair biology.
Keywords: Melanin, UV damage and radiation, Hair aging, etc.
Introduction
The majority of creatures, including humans, contain the complex natural pigment known as melanin.
It exists in several forms, each with unique properties and biological functions.
This section explains melanin’s definition, types, and its essential roles in human physiology.
Melanin: What Is It?
Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin. In humans and animals, melanin determines the colour of skin, hair, and eyes — and is also found in tissues such as the brain and inner ear.
Hair colour and condition are mostly determined by melanin. Beyond giving natural hair colour, it influences how hair responds to treatments and environmental factors.
Although melanin doesn’t directly control hair growth, it contributes to scalp and hair health.
According to professional hairstylist Nikki Goddard, melanin also provides photoprotection — shielding hair from UV rays.
Dark hair, rich in eumelanin, is more resistant to UV radiation and deterioration than lighter hair that contains more pheomelanin.
Melanin Synthesis
Melanocytes are specialized cells responsible for melanin creation — a process known as melanogenesis.
These cells are found in the skin, hair follicles, and eyes. Melanogenesis is a multi-step biochemical process involving several key enzymes.
Steps in Melanin Synthesis:
Tyrosine Uptake: Tyrosine (an amino acid) is absorbed by melanocytes from the bloodstream.
Tyrosine to Dopaquinone: The enzyme tyrosinase converts tyrosine into L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine), which is then oxidized to dopaquinone.
Eumelanin Synthesis: Dopaquinone transforms into dopachrome and undergoes further oxidation and polymerization, forming the dark eumelanin pigment.
Pheomelanin Synthesis: When cysteine is present, dopaquinone forms cysteinyl-DOPA, which leads to pheomelanin — a yellow-to-red pigment.
Role of Melanin in Hair
Hair Colour [8]
-
Eumelanin: Gives hair its dark brown to black hues. The distribution and quantity of eumelanin define whether hair appears brown or black.
-
Pheomelanin: Produces red and yellow tones in hair. It is present in people with red or blonde hair.
-
Distribution of Melanin: The wide range of hair colours is determined by the ratio and density of pheomelanin to eumelanin in the hair shaft.
Hair Aging [9]
Hair greying occurs when melanin production declines with age.
As melanocyte activity decreases, less melanin is produced, leading to the gradual loss of hair pigment and the appearance of grey or white hair.
UV Damage and Radiation [10]
Pheomelanin
a) Less Protection: Compared to eumelanin, pheomelanin provides less protection from UV radiation. Individuals with higher pheomelanin levels in skin and hair are more vulnerable to UV damage and have an increased risk of skin cancer.
b) Oxidative Stress: When exposed to UV light, pheomelanin can generate free radicals that cause oxidative stress and damage to skin and hair cells.
Eumelanin
a) Slower Lightening Process: Hair with higher eumelanin content lightens more slowly under sunlight because eumelanin is more resistant to UV-induced degradation.
b) Less Oxidative Damage: Eumelanin reduces UV-related oxidative damage, protecting hair structure and helping prevent colour loss and brittleness.
Herbs Used for Improving Melanin Synthesis
Almond
Biological Source: Obtained from the seeds of Prunus amygdalus (also known as Amygdalus communis) and/or Prunus amygdalus var. amara (bitter almond), belonging to the family Rosaceae [11].
Phytoconstituents:
Almonds contain fixed oils, proteins, and mucilage.
The oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as linolenic acid.
Bitter almonds also contain amygdalin, a notable glycoside [12].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
-
Flavonols
-
Proteins
-
Vitamins
-
Glycosides
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Phytoconstituents:
Amla fruit is a rich natural source of Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid), containing about 600–700 mg per 100 g of fresh pulp.
It also includes approximately 0.5% fat, phyllemblin, and 5% tannins [11].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
-
Essential oils
-
Tannins
-
Gums
-
Alkaloids
-
Albumin
Mode of Action
Nutrient-dense foods like almonds may help maintain hair health by supporting the production of melanin, which is essential for pigmentation.
The following almond constituents contribute to these benefits:
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) [14]
Role in Hair Growth: A potent antioxidant that protects hair follicles from oxidative stress, a major cause of hair loss and damage. It also improves scalp circulation, ensuring vital nutrients reach the hair roots.
Melanin Synthesis: Vitamin E helps protect melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin) from oxidative damage. This protection can help preserve natural hair colour and delay premature greying.
Use: Almond is traditionally used to promote hair growth [13].
Vitamin B7 (Biotin) [15]
Role in Hair Growth: Biotin is essential for the synthesis of keratin, the protein responsible for hair’s structure and strength. Adequate levels of biotin are associated with reduced hair loss and healthier hair growth.
Melanin Synthesis: Although biotin does not directly influence melanin synthesis, a deficiency can lead to brittle, dull hair and may alter its appearance and colour.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Biological Source: Derived from the dried or fresh fruits of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. (Phyllanthus emblica Linn.), family Euphorbiaceae [11].
Mode of Action [16]:
Antioxidant Effect: Rich in Vitamin C, a strong antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals — unstable molecules that can harm cells, including those vital for melanin synthesis and hair growth.
Protection of Melanocytes: Vitamin C helps protect melanocytes and hair follicles from oxidative damage, supporting healthy pigmentation and delaying greying.
Use: Amla is widely used to treat hair issues such as premature greying, hair fall, and hair damage [13].
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Biological Source: Comprises the dried roots and stem bases of Withania somnifera Dunal, family Solanaceae [11].
Phytoconstituents: Contains bioactive compounds such as Withanolides, Somniferine, and Pseudowithanine [17].
Chemical Constituents [18]:
Alkaloids
Flavonoids
Steroids
Saponins
Bhringaraja (Eclipta prostrata)
Commonly known as False Daisy, Bhringaraja is well recognized for its traditional use in promoting hair growth and pigmentation.
Key Phytoconstituent:
Wedelolactone — the main active compound responsible for stimulating hair follicles and supporting melanin balance [24].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
Steroidal alkaloids
Flavonoids
Phenolic acids
Mode of Action
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Traditional Ayurvedic medicine uses ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, for various health benefits — including hair growth and stress balance.
Although its direct impact on melanin synthesis is not fully proven, several mechanisms may explain its positive effects [19].
Antioxidant Activity:
Withanolides in ashwagandha possess strong antioxidant properties. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress in hair follicles, preventing damage that leads to hair loss and premature greying [20].Hormonal Balance:
Ashwagandha helps regulate hormone levels, especially cortisol and thyroid hormones.
By lowering cortisol, it can reduce stress-related hair loss. Its support of thyroid function also indirectly promotes healthy hair growth [21].Melanin Production:
While not conclusively proven, ashwagandha’s antioxidant and hormone-balancing effects may help maintain melanin levels, keeping hair colour vibrant and slowing greying [22].
Use: Commonly used in both traditional and modern wellness practices for stimulating hair growth and supporting melanin synthesis [23].
Bhringaraj (Eclipta alba)
Biological Source: Whole plant of Eclipta alba, family Asteraceae [11].
Phytoconstituents: Major compound Wedelolactone, known for promoting hair growth and pigmentation [24].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
Steroidal alkaloids
Flavonoids
Phenolic acids
Mode of Action:
Bhringaraj is traditionally believed to stimulate melanin synthesis, helping retain natural hair colour and encourage strong, healthy hair growth [25].
Use: Used for blackening and strengthening of hair [13].
Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
Biological Source: Fruits and leaves of Terminalia bellirica, family Combretaceae [26].
Phytoconstituents: Contains tannins, gallic acid, ellagic acid, and saponins [27].
Chemical Constituents [28]:
Flavonoids
Glycosides
Fatty acids
Saponins
Mode of Action:
Antioxidant Action: Flavonoids and phenolic compounds help combat oxidative stress, protecting follicles from free radical damage and promoting a healthy scalp [29].
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Reduces scalp irritation and improves blood circulation, ensuring better oxygen and nutrient supply to hair roots [30].
Nourishing the Scalp: Saponins help cleanse the scalp of impurities, promoting a clean, balanced environment for hair growth [31].
Strengthening Hair Roots: Tannins provide astringent effects, tightening and strengthening roots to prevent hair fall [32].
Improving Hair Follicle Health: The combined action of antioxidants, minerals, and anti-inflammatory agents supports overall follicle vitality [33].
Use: Beneficial for dandruff, itching, hair loss, and folliculitis.
Bibhitaki nourishes the hair from root to tip, keeping it strong, shiny, and naturally black [34].
Black Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum)
Biological Source: Seeds of Sesamum indicum, family Pedaliaceae [11].
Phytoconstituent: Sesamin, a key compound known for promoting hair and melanin health [35].
Chemical Constituents [36]:
Lignans
Fatty acids
Phytosterols
Tocopherols
Mode of Action:
Black sesame seeds are highly regarded in traditional medicine for enhancing melanin synthesis and improving hair vitality.
Their nutrients nourish the scalp, strengthen follicles, and may help slow greying while promoting growth [37].
Use: Rich in essential nutrients that nourish the scalp and encourage healthy, thick hair growth [38].
Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera)
Biological Source: Dried kernels of Cocos nucifera, family Palmae [11].
Phytoconstituent: Lauric acid [39].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
Phenols
Tannins
Flavonoids
Steroids
Alkaloids
Mode of Action:
Deep Penetration: Lauric acid’s molecular structure allows it to deeply penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and strengthening hair [40].
Moisturization: Acts as a natural conditioner that locks in moisture, preventing dryness and breakage [41].
Antimicrobial Action: Contains fatty acids (lauric and capric acid) with antibacterial and antifungal effects, helping prevent scalp infections and dandruff [42].
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Soothes the scalp and reduces irritation, creating a healthy environment for growth [43].
Use: Widely used to prevent hair loss and maintain strong, healthy hair [13].
Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii)
Biological Source: Leaves of Murraya koenigii, family Rutaceae [13].
Phytoconstituent: Beta-carotene [13].
Chemical Constituents [13]:
Essential oils
Proteins
Minerals
Vitamins
Mode of Action [44]:
Curry leaves are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote melanin synthesis and hair growth:
Vitamins A, B, C, E: Support scalp health, hair strength, and cell regeneration.
Vitamin A: Boosts sebum production for a moisturized scalp.
Vitamin B Complex: Regulates metabolism and prevents hair thinning.
Vitamin C: Protects follicles from oxidative stress and supports collagen formation.
Use: Strengthens hair fibers, promotes rapid growth, and helps retain hair shine and colour through amino acid nourishment [13].
Ginseng (Panax species)
Biological Source: Dried root of Panax species such as P. ginseng, P. japonica, P. notoginseng, and P. quinquefolium, family Araliaceae [11].
Phytoconstituents:
Primary compounds are Ginsenosides (Panaxosides), containing aglycone dammarol and oleanolic acid [11].
Chemical Constituents [11]:
Ginsenosides
Panaxosides
Chikusetsusaponin
Mode of Action [45]:
Stimulates Hair Follicles: Ginsenosides activate hair follicles and extend the anagen (growth) phase.
Improves Scalp Health: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects maintain scalp cleanliness and vitality.
Enhances Blood Circulation: Increases nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair roots.
Provides Antioxidant Protection: Shields hair follicles from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Use: Commonly included in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks for scalp nourishment and hair growth stimulation [46].
Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Biological Source: Whole plant of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, family Malvaceae [47].
Phytoconstituents: Tannins, steroids, alkaloids, and amino acids [13].
Chemical Constituents [48]:
Flavonoids
Saponins
Phenols
Mode of Action – Hibiscus [49]
Hibiscus contains amino acids that enhance blood circulation in the scalp, stimulating hair growth and strengthening hair shafts to prevent breakage. It also acts as a natural conditioner, making hair softer, shinier, and more manageable.
Use:
Hibiscus extract has long been used in Ayurveda for treating various ailments, including hair loss and premature greying. [13]
Licorice Root
Biological Source:
It consists of the roots of Glycyrrhiza species (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., or Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat.) belonging to the family Fabaceae. [50]
Phytoconstituents:
Glycyrrhizin, Liquiritin, Glabridin, Polysaccharides [51]
Chemical Constituents:
Flavonoids
Isoflavonoids
Coumarins
Sterols [52]
Mode of Action:
Licorice root is thought to promote hair growth through multiple mechanisms:
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Glycyrrhizin and related compounds reduce scalp inflammation, supporting a healthy environment for hair follicles. [53]
Antioxidant Activity: Rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, licorice root helps neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting hair follicles. [54]
Hormonal Modulation: Licochalcone A may inhibit 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT—a hormone linked to hair loss. [55]
Moisturizing Properties: Polysaccharides in licorice root help maintain scalp hydration and reduce irritation. [56]
Scalp Health Improvement: Its antibacterial properties keep the scalp clean and prevent infections that can hinder hair growth. [57]
Use:
It is used for nourishing the hair and promoting healthy growth. [58]
Triphala
Biological Source:
It consists of fruits of Emblica officinalis (Indian gooseberry), Terminalia bellirica (Belleric myrobalan), and Terminalia chebula (Chebulic myrobalan) belonging to the family Combretaceae. [59]
Phytoconstituents:
The major active compound found in Triphala components is gallic acid. [60]
Chemical Constituents:
β-sitosterol
Ethyl gallate
Galloyl glucose
Chebulaginic acid [61]
Mode of Action [62]:
Triphala, when consumed as tea with warm water, improves blood circulation, stimulating hair follicles and helping to treat scalp disorders. Vibhitaka, one of its components, exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties that maintain scalp health and support strong hair growth.
Use:
Used to stimulate the hair follicles and roots, promoting healthy hair growth. [63]
Conclusion
Melanin plays a vital role in determining hair pigmentation, protection, and overall health. Its synthesis—a complex biochemical process—depends on the balance between eumelanin and pheomelanin, and it provides essential UV protection to hair and scalp. With age, melanin production declines, leading to greying hair and loss of color vibrancy.
From the study, numerous natural herbs—including almond, amla, ashwagandha, bhringaraj, bibhitaki, black sesame seed, coconut oil, curry leaves, ginseng, hibiscus, licorice root, and triphala—demonstrate significant potential in enhancing melanin synthesis and promoting healthy hair growth.
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, these herbs strengthen follicles, delay greying, minimize hair loss, and improve scalp health. Their continued use in traditional and modern practices highlights the importance of holistic, natural approaches to maintaining vibrant and healthy hair.
References
-
Lerner AB, Fitzpatrick TB. Biochemistry of melanin formation. Physiological Reviews. 1950;30(1):91–126.
-
Solano F. Melanins: Skin pigments and much more—types, structural models, biological functions, and formation routes. New Journal of Science. 2014;2014:1–28.
-
Morel OJX, Christie RM. Current trends in the chemistry of permanent hair dyeing. Chemical Reviews. 2011;111(4):2537–2356.
-
Tobin DJ, Slominski A, Botchkarev V, Paus R. The fate of hair follicle melanocytes during the hair growth cycle. Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings. 1999;4(3):323–332.
-
Sevilla A, Chéret J, Slominski RM, Slominski AT, Paus R. Revisiting the role of melatonin in human melanocyte physiology: A skin context perspective. Journal of Pineal Research. 2022;72(3):e12764.
-
Kester S. Melanin for hair: what role it plays & how to increase production. Healthline; c2020.
-
Morris-Jones R, Youngchim S, Gomez BL, Aisen P, Hay RJ, Nosanchuk JD, et al. Synthesis of melanin-like pigments by Sporothrix schenckii in vitro and during mammalian infection. Infection and Immunity. 2003;71(7):4026–4033.
-
Vaughn M, Van Oorschot R, Baindur-Hudson S. Hair color measurement and variation. American Journal of Physical Anthropology. 2008;137(1):91–96.
-
Williams R, Pawlus AD, Thornton MJ. Getting under the skin of hair aging: The impact of the hair follicle environment. Experimental Dermatology. 2020;29(7):588–597.
-
Rastogi RP, Richa N, Kumar A, Tyagi MB, Sinha RP. Molecular mechanisms of ultraviolet radiation-induced DNA damage and repair. Journal of Nucleic Acids. 2010;2010:1–32.
-
Kokate CK, Purohit AP, Gokhale SB. Pharmacognosy. Pune: Nirali Prakashan; c2017. p. 11.45, 10.4, 10.5, 15.77, 15.87, 11.37, 11.48, 9.51, 9.52.
-
Özcan MM, Matthäus B, Aljuhaimi F, Ahmed IA, Ghafoor K, Babiker EE, et al. Effect of almond genotypes on fatty acid composition, tocopherols and mineral contents, and bioactive properties of sweet almond (Prunus amygdalus Batsch spp. dulce) kernel and oils. Journal of Food Science and Technology. 2020;57(11):4182–4192.
-
Nandaniya H, Khanpara P, Faldu S. Focus on herbal home remedies for hair regrowth and loss. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2023;12(5):327–340.
-
Sen CK, Khanna S, Roy S. Tocotrienols: Vitamin E beyond tocopherols. Life Sciences. 2006;78(18):2088–2098.
-
Carling RS, Turner C. Methods for assessment of biotin (vitamin B7). In: Elsevier eBooks; c2019. p. 193–217.
-
Sanadi R, Deshmukh R. The effect of vitamin C on melanin pigmentation: A systematic review. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology. 2020;24(2):374.
-
Mandlik DS, Namdeo AG. Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2020;18(2):183–226.
-
Daben J, Dashak D, Lohdip A. Quantitative evaluation of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and tannins contents from the successive solvent extracts of Crinum zeylanicum bulb. Journal of Chemical Society of Nigeria. 2021;46(5).
-
Singh N, Bhalla M, De Jager P, Gilca M. An overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicines. 2011;8(5S).
-
Paul S, Chakraborty S, Anand U, Dey S, Nandy S, Ghorai M, et al. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha): A comprehensive review on ethnopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, biomedicinal, and toxicological aspects. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2021;143:112175.
-
Dell’Acqua G, Richards A, Thornton MJ. The potential role of nutraceuticals as an adjuvant in breast cancer patients to prevent hair loss induced by endocrine therapy. Nutrients. 2020;12(11):3537.
-
Maranduca M, Branisteanu D, Serban D, Branisteanu D, Stoleriu G, Manolache N, et al. Synthesis and physiological implications of melanic pigments: A review. Oncology Letters. 2019;17(5):4167–4175.
-
Singh A. Herbal-based nutraceuticals in management of lifestyle diseases: Experience from Indian population. Future Integrative Medicine. 2024;3(2):106–115.
-
Timalsina D, Devkota HP. Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. (Asteraceae): Ethnomedicinal uses, chemical constituents, and biological activities. Biomolecules. 2021;11(11):1738.
-
Kesika P, Sivamaruthi BS, Thangaleela S, Bharathi M, Chaiyasut C. Role and mechanisms of phytochemicals in hair growth and health. Pharmaceuticals. 2023;16(2):206.
-
Gupta A, Kumar R, Bhattacharyya P, Bishayee A, Pandey AK. Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. (Bahera) in health and disease: A systematic and comprehensive review. Phytomedicine. 2020;77:153278.
-
Hou JP. The chemical constituents of ginseng plants. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 1977;5(2):123–145.
-
Tungmunnithum D, Thongboonyou A, Pholboon A, Yangsabai A. Flavonoids and other phenolic compounds from medicinal plants for pharmaceutical and medical aspects: An overview. Medicines. 2018;5(3):93.
-
Ruksiriwanich W, Khantham C, Muangsanguan A, Chittasupho C, Rachtanapun P, Jantanasakulwong K, et al. Phytochemical constitution, anti-inflammation, anti-androgen, and hair growth-promoting potential of shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) extract. Plants. 2022;11(11):1499.
-
Xiao L, Zhang X, Chen Z, Li B, Li L, et al. A Timosaponin B‐II containing scalp care solution for improvement of scalp hydration, dandruff reduction, and hair loss prevention: A comparative study on healthy volunteers before and after application. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2020;20(3):819–824.
-
Trueb R, Henry J, Davis M, Schwartz J, et al. Scalp condition impacts hair growth and retention via oxidative stress. International Journal of Trichology. 2018;10(6):262.
-
Park S, Lee J, et al. Modulation of hair growth promoting effect by natural products. Pharmaceutics. 2021;13(12):2163.
-
Gautam S, Mutha R, Sahu AK, Gautam A, Joshi RK, et al. Management of folliculitis decalvans with Ayurveda: A case report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2022;13(4):100673.
-
Wei P, Zhao F, Wang Z, Wang Q, Chai X, Hou G, Meng Q, et al. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): A comprehensive review of nutritional value, phytochemical composition, health benefits, development of food, and industrial applications. Nutrients. 2022;14(19):4079.
-
Ryan E, Galvin K, O’Connor TP, Maguire AR, O’Brien NM, et al. Fatty acid profile, tocopherol, squalene and phytosterol content of Brazil, pecan, pine, pistachio, and cashew nuts. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition. 2006;57(3–4):219–228.
-
Dossou SSK, Luo Z, Wang Z, Zhou W, Zhou R, Zhang Y, et al. The dark pigment in the sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) seed coat: Isolation, characterization, and its potential precursors. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2022;9.
-
Semalty M, Semalty A, Joshi GP, Rawat MSM, et al. Hair growth and rejuvenation: An overview. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 2010;22(3):123–132.
-
Lima E, Sousa C, Meneses L, Ximenes N, Vasconcelos G, et al. Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae): A phytochemical and pharmacological review. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research. 2015;48(11):953–964.
-
Arghya A, Mysore V, et al. Hair oils: Indigenous knowledge revisited. International Journal of Trichology. 2022;14(3):84.
-
Purnamawati S, Indrastuti N, Danarti R, Saefudin T, et al. The role of moisturizers in addressing various kinds of dermatitis: A review. Clinical Medicine & Research. 2017;15(3–4):75–87.
-
Saxena R, Mittal P, Clavaud C, Dhakan DB, Roy N, Breton L, et al. Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals. Scientific Reports. 2021;11(1).
-
Lin T, Zhong L, Santiago J, et al. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2017;19(1):70.
-
Batra ND, Changade J, Changade J, et al. A phytochemical and comparative study to assess the efficacy of Kaidarya (Murraya koenigii (L.) Sprengel) Siddha Taila plus Kaidarya Vati and Kaidarya Vati in Akala Palitya. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research. 2024.
-
Choi B, et al. Hair-growth potential of ginseng and its major metabolites: A review on its molecular mechanisms. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018;19(9):2703.
-
Nanjwade BK, et al. Development of cosmeceuticals. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2017;643–691.
-
Amtaghri S, Qabouche A, Slaoui M, Eddouks M. A comprehensive overview of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.: Its ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, therapeutic uses, pharmacological activities, and toxicology. Endocrine Metabolic & Immune Disorders – Drug Targets. 2024;24(1):86–115.
-
Vittaya L, Charoendat U, Janyong S, Ui-Eng J, Leesakul N. Comparative analyses of saponin, phenolic, and flavonoid contents in various parts of Rhizophora mucronata and Rhizophora apiculata and their growth inhibition of aquatic pathogenic bacteria. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science; c2022.
-
Dias MFG. Hair cosmetics: An overview. International Journal of Trichology. 2015;7(1):2.
-
Cerulli A, Masullo M, Montoro P, Piacente S. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, G. uralensis, and G. inflata) and their constituents as active cosmeceutical ingredients. Cosmetics. 2022;9(1):7.
-
Husain I, Bala K, Khan IA, Khan SI. A review on phytochemicals, pharmacological activities, drug interactions, and associated toxicities of licorice (Glycyrrhiza sp.). Food Frontiers. 2021;2(4):449–485.
-
El-Gazzar N, Abdallah R, Hammoda H, Sallam S. Chemical constituents and biological activities of genus Lotus: An updated review. Records of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences. 2022;6(2):147–162.
-
Pastorino G, Cornara L, Soares S, Rodrigues F, Oliveira MBP. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): A phytochemical and pharmacological review. Phytotherapy Research. 2018;32(12):2323–2339.
-
Gyawali R, Paudel PN. Herbal remedies in cosmeceutical formulation: A review on Nepalese perspectives. Annapurna Journal of Health Sciences. 2022;2(1):59–65.
-
Parisi OI, Scrivano L, Amone F, Malivindi R, Ruffo M, Vattimo AF, et al. Interconnected Polymers Technology (IPSTIC): An effective approach for the modulation of 5α-reductase activity in hair loss conditions. Journal of Functional Biomaterials. 2018;9(3):44.
-
Juncan AM, Moisă DG, Santini A, Morgovan C, Rus L, Vonica-Țincu AL, et al. Advantages of hyaluronic acid and its combination with other bioactive ingredients in cosmeceuticals. Molecules. 2021;26(15):4429.
-
Wahab S, Annadurai S, Abullais SS, Das G, Ahmad W, Ahmad MF, et al. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A comprehensive review on its phytochemistry, biological activities, clinical evidence, and toxicology. Plants. 2021;10(12):2751.
-
Kumar N, Rungseevijitprapa W, Narkkhong N, Suttajit M, Chaiyasut C. 5α-reductase inhibition and hair growth promotion of some Thai plants traditionally used for hair treatment. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2012;139(3):765–771.
-
Bag A, Bhattacharyya SK, Chattopadhyay RR. The development of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) in clinical research. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. 2013;3(3):244–252.
-
Prananda AT, Dalimunthe A, Harahap U, Simanjuntak Y, Peronika E, Karosekali NE, et al. Phyllanthus emblica: A comprehensive review of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2023;14.
-
Kalamkar AA, Lal PI, Chaudhary PH, Ruikar DB. A review on Emblica officinalis Gaertn. International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2023;5(1):111–117.
-
Peterson CT, Denniston K, Chopra D. Therapeutic uses of Triphala in Ayurvedic medicine. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2017;23(8):607–614.
-
Matsuda H, Yamazaki M, Asanuma Y, Kubo M. Promotion of hair growth by ginseng radix on cultured mouse vibrissal hair follicles. Phytotherapy Research. 2003;17(7):797–800.

