Observation of Ph, colour changes and microbiological occurance in hair treatment formulations from selected Malay medical manuscripts

Introduction: Hair being an integral part of the integumentary system, has several physical and chemical properties that differ individually. Most of the hair conditions are often treated using traditional or commercial products. However, this knowledge stems primarily from historical experiences, lack scientific validation and currently, there are no commercially available formulations for hair treatment derived from the Malay Medical Manuscripts (MMMs). Aim: This study focuses on development of hair treatment formulations in the MMMs and explores its potential in addressing hair problems. Method: Three available MMMs, namely, MSS 1292, MSS 2905 and IAMM1998.1.3370 were reviewed for hair treatments prescriptions. The prescriptions were analysed against the Scientific Analysis of Kitab Tib Index (SAKTI) tool, whereby two formulations were chosen before carefully being prepared in the laboratory and parameters such as pH, colour, and microbiological changes of the formulations were assessed. Results: The first formulation used Citrus maxima (pomelo) whilst the second formulation used Musa acuminata (banana) as their main ingredients respectively. For each formulation, yellow and green fruits were used. Samples were labelled as PomY and PomG for yellow and green pomelo, as well as BanY and BanG for yellow and green bananas respectively. Most samples showed consistent pH values between pH 5.0 - 5.4 at room temperature (23℃ - 27℃) as well as at cool temperature (4℃) indicating a mildly acidic nature. However, a few samples show a slightly more acidic pH around 4.0, while others are closer to neutral with a pH of 6.0. Overall, the discolouration of the samples was not noticeable for formulations using pomelo. However, discolouration was more apparent in BanY on day 6 and BanG on day 3. The microbiology test showed growth of Gram-positive as well as Gram-negative bacteria in all samples except PomY within 24 to 48 h of storage. Conclusion: These findings are preliminary observation for homemade prescriptions and provide valuable insights into the potential of Malay medicine and natural ingredients for hair treatment as well as paving the way for the integration of traditional medicine into contemporary healthcare practices.