Formulation and evaluation of the effectiveness hair tonic containing ethanolic extract of garden balsam leaves (Impatiens balsamina L.) using the Tanaka method

Hair issues such as hair loss and slow growth require safe and effective treatment products. Garden balsam leaves (Impatiens balsamina L.) contain secondary metabolites specifically flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins that have the potential to serve as active ingredients in hair tonic formulations. This study aimed to formulate, evaluate the physical quality of, and test the effectiveness of a hair tonic containing an ethanolic extract of garden balsam leaves on hair growth using the Tanaka method. This was a laboratory-based experimental study utilizing the maceration extraction method with 96% ethanol. Three concentrations were formulated F1 (4%), F2 (6%), and F3 (8%) and compared against a negative control (distilled water) and a positive control (5% minoxidil). Physical quality evaluations included tests for organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, and viscosity, while effectiveness was analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, homogeneity test, One-Way ANOVA, and the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. The results showed an extraction yield of 28.3%, with positive test results for flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. All formulations met physical quality standards and promoted hair growth compared to the negative control. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in effectiveness among the treatment groups (p<0.05). Formula F3 (8%) produced the highest average hair growth, making it the most effective formulation for stimulating hair growth.