Amla Oil, a Pharmaceutical Product Based on Traditional Knowledge for Hair Loss Treatment

Background and objectives: Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) resources have recommended different formulations for overcoming hair loss which is a beauty concern worldwide; one of these recommendations is amla oil which has been mentioned to be considerably effective. In the present study, amla oil has been formulated according to ITM and the quality control assessment of the product has been fulfilled. Methods: Phyllanthus emblica L. fruits (amla)and Myrtus communis L. leaves (myrtle) were provided from local market and their quality was evaluated according to pharmacopeia. The aqueous extract of myrtle was obtained by 24 h maceration; then amla was extracted in myrtle aqueous extract for 48 h. The mixture was filtered and sesame oil wasadded to the filtrate and heatedtill all water was evaporated. The resulting oil was assessed for viscosity, density, total phenolics and total tannins contents and acid and saponification values; the microbial content was also evaluated. Results: Amla oil was yellow in color with sesame odor. The acid value, viscosity, density, total phenolics and total tannins as pyrogallol were found to be 3.03 mg KOH/g, 102.8 cp, 0.966 g/mL, 0.2 and 0.05%, respectively. The product saponification value was zero and no microbial contamination was detected. Conclusion: The product showed proper physicochemical and microbial quality and could be suggested for treatment of hair loss after passing clinical trial.