PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF RICINUS COMMUNIS LEAVES GEL FOR HAIR GROWTH ACTIVITY

Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, is a prevalent condition that affects individuals of various ages and genders, causing psychological distress and diminished self-esteem. The search for effective and safe remedies for hair loss has led researchers to explore natural sources, including plant-derived compounds. Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor oil plant, has been historically used for its medicinal properties, and its leaves are known to contain a diverse range of bioactive compounds. This abstract presents an overview of the research conducted to investigate the potential of Ricinus communis leaves as a natural remedy for hair loss. The study aimed to explore the phytochemical composition of the leaves, focusing on compounds that could promote hair growth, inhibit hair follicle regression, and provide overall hair health. Extracts from Ricinus communis leaves were obtained using various solvents, and their phytochemical profiles were analyzed using techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Furthermore, the research involved in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess the effects of Ricinus communis leaf extracts on hair follicle cells and animal models, respectively. The in vitro experiments included evaluating cell viability, proliferation, and expression of hair growth-related genes upon treatment with different concentrations of leaf extracts. In vivo experiments were conducted on animal models to observe changes in hair regrowth and overall hair health following topical application of formulated leaf extracts. The findings of the study indicated that Ricinus communis leaf extracts contain a variety of compounds, including fatty acids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which have been reported to possess potential hair growth-promoting properties. The in vitro experiments demonstrated enhanced cell viability, proliferation, and upregulation of key hair growth-related genes, suggesting a positive influence on hair follicle cells. The in vivo experiments revealed promising results, with observed improvements in hair regrowth and follicle health in the animal models treated with the formulated extracts. In conclusion, the study suggests that Ricinus communis leaves hold promise as a natural source of bioactive compounds that could contribute to the development of hair loss treatments. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of action of