Effect of Citrullus colocynthis. on Hair Growth in Albino Rats

Abstract

Citrullus colocynthis. Schrad (Cucurbitaceae) is a traditionally acclaimed hair tonic in Ayurveda (the traditional Indian system of medicine). Studies were therefore undertaken to evaluate petroleum ether and ethanol extracts of C. colocynthis. for their effect on hair growth in albino rats. The extracts incorporated into oleaginous ointment base were applied topically on shaved denuded skin of albino rats. The time required for initiation of hair growth as well as completion of hair growth cycle was recorded. Minoxidil 2% solution was applied topically and served as the standard. Hair growth initiation time was significantly reduced to half on treatment with the petroleum ether extracts compared with untreated control animals. The time required for complete hair growth was also considerably reduced. The treatment was successful in bringing a greater number of hair follicles (>70%) to anagenic phase than standard minoxidil (67%). The result of treatment with 2 and 5% petroleum ether extracts were comparable with the standard minoxidil.