Evaluation of a Polyherbal Gel in a Single-Arm Open-Label Trial for Management of Scalp Pityriasis Capitis (Dandruff)

Background: Pityriasis Capitis (Dandruff) is a leading scalp disorder, which affects over 50% population globally. Current anti-dandruff chemical based products can show side-effects, especially after long-term use. The ten herbs mentioned in Kandughna (anti-itching) class of Charak Samhita are known to have anti-itching effect along with proven anti-microbial and anti- inflammatory properties, which could potentially have strong anti-dandruff activity through the synergistic action of the contents. The traditional dosage form of paste or concoctions was converted into gel form i.e. Dashemani Kandughna Gel (DKG) for better patient acceptability. The developed gel, proven to be a stable and non-irritant formulation with significant in-vitro anti- microbial activity against dandruff causing organisms. Objectives: This single arm open label trial was designed to assess the clinical efficacy of Dashemani Kandughna Gel in the patients of dandruff. Methods: The gel was prepared by following the SOP and was assessed for its clinical efficacy through a single-arm non-randomized clinical trial conducted on 120 patients suffering from varying grades of dandruff. Gradation scale for major signs and symptoms i.e. itching, scalp dryness, scalp scaling and falling of hair, as well as trichoscopic examination were used as assessment criteria. The 21-day trial consisted of night-time topical drug application with 7 day follow-ups. Results: The statistical analysis showed that polyherbal gel has produced significant results (p- value < 0.05) with reduction of itching (90%), dryness (70%), scaling (79.35%). falling of hair (52%) The study corroborates the anti-dandruff activity of Polyherbal gel.