DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF NATURAL SHAMPOO POWDER HAVING ANTIDRANDRUFF AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY

The present study focuses on the development and evaluation of a natural polyherbal shampoo powder with potent anti-dandruff and antifungal activity. The formulation was prepared using herbal ingredients such as shikakai, reetha, amla, neem, tulsi, fenugreek, bhringraj, kalonji, orange peel, and rose petal powder, selected for their cleansing, conditioning, antimicrobial, and hair growth–promoting properties. The shampoo powder was formulated by drying, grinding, sieving, and blending the herbal ingredients in suitable proportions. The prepared formulation was evaluated for organoleptic properties, powder characteristics, physicochemical parameters, phytochemical screening, antimicrobial activity, foaming ability, washability, and stability. The results showed good foaming capacity, acceptable pH, easy washability, good  stability, and no skin irritation. The formulation also demonstrated promising anti-dandruff and antifungal potential, indicating that the prepared herbal shampoo powder can serve as a safe, economical, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic shampoos.