Formulation and evaluation of herbal shampoo with goodness of rosemary

The increasing demand for natural and safe personal care products has led to the development of herbal formulations that incorporate plant-based ingredients with proven therapeutic benefits. This study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of an herbal shampoo enriched with the goodness of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), a well-known medicinal herb widely used for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hair-stimulating properties. The aim was to create a gentle, effective, and eco-friendly alternative to commercially available shampoos containing synthetic ingredients. The herbal shampoo was formulated using a combination of rosemary extract along with other natural cleansing and conditioning agents such as Sapindus mukorossi (reetha), Acacia concinna (shikakai), Emblica officinalis (amla), and Aloe vera gel. The preparation method emphasized the use of mild surfactants and natural thickeners to ensure a smooth and stable product. The final formulation was subjected to a series of evaluations to determine its physicochemical properties, including pH, viscosity, foam stability, surface tension, solid content, and detergency power.Results indicated that the shampoo exhibited ideal pH levels (close to that of the scalp), good foaming capacity, and stable viscosity, making it suitable for regular use. The presence of rosemary contributed significantly to the antimicrobial activity of the shampoo, particularly against dandruff-causing organisms such as Malassezia furfur. Sensory evaluation by volunteers reported favorable feedback regarding the fragrance, texture, cleansing action, and overall hair feel post-use.