Preliminary study on the impact of methanolic extract of Elephantopus scaber Linn. on hair growth promoting effect in rats

Methanolic extract of Elephantopus scaber leaves was investigated for its role in hair growth in experimental rats. The 2% and 5% solution of prepared formulation using methanolic extract was studied for hair growth on wistar rats for 30 days. Minoxidil (2% solution) was taken as a reference standard. The prepared hair oil formulation of methanolic extract significantly (p<0.01) potentiated the hair growth initiation and completion time with dosedependent improvement in skin biopsy, hair length and hair weight. In vitro hair follicles development study showed the significant (p<0.05) improvement in the initiation of new hair follicles. Above mentioned results indicated that the methanolic extract of E scaber rendered significant hair growth promotive effect.