Formulation And Physicochemical Evaluation of a Novel Topical Herbal Gel Containing Cucurbita Maxima and Camellia Sinensis for the Management of Alopecia

Abstract

Hair is an epidermal derivative originating from the skin ectoderm that serves essential protective and psychosocial roles alongside associated structures like sebaceous glands, sweat glands and nails. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) represents the preeminent etiology of hair loss globally, impacting up to 70% of the male population as they progress beyond 50 years of age. Traditional medicine frequently leverages botanical extracts as safer alternatives to address premature hair loss and baldness. This investigation describes the design & development and in-vitro characterization of a topical polyherbal gel incorporating bioactive extracts of Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin seeds) and Camellia sinensis (green tea leaves). Following the solvent extraction of pumpkin seeds and green tea leaves, the primary concentrates were systematically incorporated into a carbomer-based matrix via trituration. The resultant formulations were evaluated for diverse physical and rheological parameters, including pH, dynamic viscosity, spread ability, extrudability, washability and dermatological safety via skin irritation metrics. Structural compatibility and potential interactions between the bioactive components and excipients were investigated using Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Furthermore, in-vitro diffusion profiles were mapped using a Franz cell apparatus to isolate the optimized batch.