Synthetic oxidative hair dyes available in the market contain a combination of peroxide and ammonia. In addition, people who use synthetic dyes are at risk for skin burns, irritation to the eye and also lead to cancer. Hence, herbal-based hair dyes are safe to use. In the traditional system of medicine, different parts of Phyllanthus reticulatus were used for curing various ailments. The aqueous leaf extract showed the presence of phytochemical rich components. Herbal hair dye has been formulated by using P. reticulatus with various natural ingredients in the ratio of 5:1:1:1:1. The herbal hair dye was evaluated for its various parameters. It showed potent in vitro antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms and antioxidant activity. In the formulated product, the natural ingredients are known for their non-toxic properties and there are no added chemicals and preservatives. It offers a natural alternative, that can be used irrespective of any side effects.
Keywords: Phyllanthus reticulatus; ammonia; colourant; hair dye; herbal.