Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Anti-Lice Shampoo Fromannona Reticulata (Family: Annonaceae) Leaf Extract

Abstract

Head lice infestation is a common parasitic condition that can cause itching, scalp irritation, and discomfort. The increasing concerns associated with synthetic pediculicides have encouraged the development of safer herbal alternatives. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate an herbal anti-lice shampoo containing ethanolic leaf extract of Annona reticulata (family Annonaceae). The leaves were extracted by maceration using ethanol and subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening. The extract contained several phytoconstituent groups, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, phenolic compounds, and carbohydrates. The herbal shampoo was prepared using suitable surfactants and excipients and evaluated for various physicochemical parameters. The formulation exhibited a pH of 5, density and specific gravity of 1.025 g/mL, satisfactory viscosity and foaming properties, and acceptable physical characteristics. Skin irritancy testing showed no visible redness or swelling during the observation period. In the anti-lice evaluation, the formulation demonstrated pediculicidal activity, with complete mortality of lice observed within 3 minutes, showing faster activity than the marketed herbal shampoo used for comparison. The findings indicate that Annona reticulata leaf extract has potential for incorporation into herbal anti-lice shampoo formulations.