# Hair Washing Formulations fromAloe elegans Todaro Gel: The Potential for Making Hair Shampoo

Authors: Desta Berhe Sbhatu; Goitom Gebreyohannes Berhe; Abadi Gebreyesus Hndeya; Asmael Abdu; Afework Mulugeta; Haftom Baraki Abraha; Micheale Yifter Weldemichael; Hailekiros Tadesse Tekle; Haftay Abadi Gebru; Molla Gereme Taye; Haileselassie Gebremeskel Kidanemariam
Journal: Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences
 (2020)

---

## Abstract

This study aimed to describe the gross phytochemical constituents ofAloe elegans Todaro gel and evaluate the characteristics and quality of lab-made hair washing formulations prepared from the gel to show its potential in formulating hair washing shampoos. A. elegans gel mass was prepared from mature, healthy leaves collected from natural stand. Samples of 100% methanol extract of the gel were subjected to standard phytochemical screening and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. Five hair washing formulations (Fs) were, likewise, prepared by mixing 4.0–10.0 mL of gel with one (0.05 mL) to two (0.10 mL) drops of six synthetic and natural ingredients, namely, coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, pure glycerin oil, lemon juice, and vitamin E. The gel to the total ingredient ratios (v/v) of the five formulations were 93 : 7 (F1), 94.5 : 5.5 (F2), 96.4 : 3.6 (F3), and 96.6 : 3.4 (F4 and F5). The formulations were evaluated using sensory inspection and common physicochemical methods. The phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis revealed that A. elegans gel is the source of important chemical constituents used in the formulation of shampoos and similar products including saponins, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and phytol. Lab-made A. elegans hair washing formulations, especially those with 96.4–96.6% gel, were found to have similar characteristics and qualities with a common marketed shampoo. All the formulations were turbid with characteristic odor as the marketed shampoo. The pH values of the hair washing formulations (6.4–4.6) were comparable to those of the marketed shampoo (6.7). Formulations with higher proportion of gel had better foam stability, higher solid content (26–29%), higher surface tension (33–38 dynes/cm), shorter wetting time (150–160 sec), equivalent viscosities (26.45–26.73 poise), and conditioning performance than the marketed shampoo. These findings demonstrate that A. elegans gel mass can be used in the formulation of good-quality hair washing shampoos. We recommend future studies that aim to develop the phytochemical profile of the plant and a refined protocol of hair washing shampoo formulation.


---

## Body

## 1. Introduction

The genusAloe L. (Aloaceae) comprises more than 500 species of succulent flowering plants. Aloes are native to many parts of Africa and Madagascar, the Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula, South and Central America, the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas and Florida, Southern California and Mexico, the Pacific Rim Countries, India, the Caribbean, and Australia [1, 2]. They thrive in a range of latitudinal and altitudinal zones and diversity of habitats such as forests, wooded-grasslands, woodlands, rocky expanses, mountain tops and cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, and many other ecological zones with extreme environmental and soil conditions [3]. Fifty (50) species of Aloe are known and described in the flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea so far; 31 of them are endemic and restricted to very small areas [3, 4].The Tigrai floristic region of the flora of Ethiopian and Eritrea is home to manyAloe species including A. adigratana Reynolds, A. camperi Schweinfurth, A. elegans Todaro, A. macrocarpa Todaro, A. monticola Reynolds, A. percrassa Todaro, A. steudneri Schweinfurth, and A. trichosantha Berger. A. elegans grows in a range of habitats in Tigrai, Wollo, Gojjam, and Shewa floristic regions of Ethiopia and Eritrea from 1,500 to 2,400 meters. The plant is the second or third most abundant Aloe species in Tigrai. It flowers from September to December and occasionally from March to May [3]. It is planted as fence of farm plots, backyards, homesteads, churchyards, forest enclosures, and footpaths in Tigrai. The conservation and sustainable use of this plant depends on the knowledge of its use and potential. The plant is included in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) List of Threatened Species since 2013 [5].Aloes have been all-purpose plants over many millennia across all civilizations. They are endowed with a range of chemical constituents that can be used in preparing beauty and cosmetic, medicinal and pharmaceutical, personal care and toiletry products, and bittering agents in alcoholic drinks. They are also grown as ornamental plants [6, 7]. Furthermore, aloes have been used in preparing many traditional remedies for healing wounds, anesthetizing tissues, stopping fungal, viral, and bacterial growths, improving blood flow, and acting as anti-inflammatory, antiaging, and antiallergic agents [6, 8]. Many varieties of A. vera L. (A. barbadensis) and few other species A. arborescens, A. sinkatana, A. ferox, and A. pulcherrima are extensively studied and are known to be rich sources of essential oils, fatty acids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds that have a range of therapeutic and health benefits to humans [9–14]. Extracts and isolates of Aloe species are known to exhibit antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Thus, their economic potentials and applications in cosmetic and personal care, nutriceutical, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage industries are increasing [10, 15–17]. However, there are very limited studies on the environmental and commercial potentials of the majority of the aloes.Many researchers explored into the phytochemistry, biocidal activities, and pharmaceutical properties in some Ethiopian aloes includingA. adigratana, A. citrina, A. debrana, A. elegans, A. harlana, A. megalacantha, A. otallensis, A. percrassa, A. pulcherrima, A. rivae, and A. sinana [18–30]. However, the studies on Ethiopian aloes, including A. elegans, were isolated endeavors without continuity. One study with whole tissues of A. elegans leaf revealed that it is a good source of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides with antifungal and antibacterial activities [21]. Another study showed that the plant is a useful source of traditional remedies against abdominal pain, malaria, diabetics, impotence, and many other human ailments in Tigrai (Ethiopia) and Eritrea [31, 32]. Moreover, it is used in the preparation of traditional hair washing shampoos by local people in Eritrea [31]. The present study aimed to determine the phytochemistry of A. elegans gel and evaluate the characteristics of lab-made hair washing formulations of the gel to demonstrate its potential for making hair washing and conditioning shampoo.


## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. Collection and Preparation of Plant Specimens

Healthy and mature leaves ofA. elegans were collected from wild stand at north of Sele (at about 86 km on the Mekelle-Abbiyi Addi highway; latitude/longitude: 13.560/39.026; altitude: 1,694 m) on 21 December 2018. Collection of plant materials by natives (Ethiopians) for research is granted by Article 15, Clause 1, of the Access to Genetic Resources and Community Knowledge and Community Rights Proclamation of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (No. 482/2006). Specimens of the plant were identified by the National Herbarium (ETH), the Department of Biology, Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia). The leaves were rinsed with running tap water to remove any dirt and soil. The leaf (i.e., outer green skin) and the gel (i.e., inner gelatinous mass) were separated by peeling the skin off with a scalpel knife. The mass of gel was dried in shade at room temperature for 18 days. The dried mass of gel was then pulverized into powder using an electrical grinder and stored in a sealed container until used for phytochemical study.


### 2.2. Phytochemistry of Gel Extracts

Powder ofA. elegans gel was extracted by 100% methanol using the continuous hot percolation method in Soxhlet apparatus for 18 hours. The extract was concentrated in a rotary evaporator into brown liquid and kept at 4°C in a deep freezer. Samples of the extract were taken out and subjected to phytochemical screening using the standard tests for alkaloids (Wagner test) [33], anthraquinones (Borntrager’s test) [34], flavonoids (lead acetate test) [35], saponins (Froth test) [36], tannins (ferric chloride test) [37], and terpenoids (Salkowski test) [36].


### 2.3. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Analysis

Likewise, samples of the gel extract were sent to JIJE LOBOGLASS Plc.—a certified analytical laboratory in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—for gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. The instrument control parameters of the GC-MS are given in Appendix. The GC-MS analysis was carried out to determine the essential oil and fatty acid methyl ester contents of the gel.


### 2.4. Preparation of Hair Washing Formulations fromA. elegans Gel

Five lab-made hair washing formulations were prepared by mixingA. elegans gel mass with six natural and formulated ingredients. The ingredients were coconut oil, jojoba oil, lemon juice, olive oil, pure glycerin oil, and vitamin E (Table 1).Table 1
Ingredients used in preparing lab-made hair washing formulations fromA. elegans gel.
Generic nameManufacturerBiological applicationsA. elegans gel—Repairs, strengthens, hydrates, and softens hair; makes hair look and feel healthier; heals wounds; acts as natural surfactantCoconut oilC.B.C., MalaysiaPrevents protein loss in hair; moisturizes skin; acts as a natural sunscreenJojoba oilORS, USAMoisturizes and gives hair shining lookLemon juiceFresh lab extractActs as natural antioxidant, chelating, and antidandruff agent; maintains the pH of the acidic formulationOlive oilSalamati, SpainMoisturizes hair; minimizes scalp irritation; reduces dandruffPure glycerin oilLFRESSH-Eurogulf, UAEHydrates skin; enhances cell maturation; removes dandruffVitamin EFruit of the Earth, USASupports scalp; gives hair strong base to grow; reduces oxidative stress; preserves protective lipid layerThe gel masses were mixed with the ingredients according to the ratio indicated in Table2 to prepare enough volume hair washing formulations [38–40]. Then, mixtures were homogenized one by one with magnetic stirrer at 400 rpm for 30 min at 30°C, and white smooth formulations were obtained. Finally, the formulations were transferred into labeled collapsible plastic tubes and kept at room temperature for physicochemical evaluation.Table 2
Preparation of hair washing formulations fromA. elegans gel.
IngredientsUoM∗FormulationsF1F2F3F4F5Vol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vA. elegans gelmL4.093.0694.5896.41096.61096.6Coconut oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4820.97Olive oilgtt.11.1621.5710.6020.9710.48Jojoba oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Glycerin oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Vitamin Egtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Lemon juicegtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48∗UoM, unit of measurement; mL: milliliter; gtt.: drop (0.05 mL).


### 2.5. Evaluation of the Characteristics of the Hair Washing Formulations

The formulations were evaluated via sensory inspection and physical assessment methods based on procedures developed and used by many researchers against a marketed shampoo (product name: Aloe Vera Hair Shampoo; producer: Perfect Cosmetics, UAE; size: 5.5 mL; description: natural blend ofAloe vera extract and moisturizers; manufactured: 02/2018; expiry: 02/2021) [38–45].


#### 2.5.1. Sensory Inspection

The physical appearance of the lab-made formulations was evaluated based their color, clarity, odor, consistency, and spreadability. The visual inspection of each formulation was carried out by three randomly selected volunteering students at room temperature.


#### 2.5.2. Determination of pH

A 10% (v/v) solution was prepared from each hair washing formulation using sterile distilled water. The pH of each solution was determined at room temperature (25°C) and recorded.


#### 2.5.3. Determination of Solids Contents

Four (4) grams of hair washing formulation was placed onto a clean, dry evaporating dish. The evaporating dish holding the shampoo was weighed using electronic balance, and the total weight was recorded as W1. Then, the evaporating dish was placed on the hot plate at 50°C and was kept until the liquid content was completely evaporated. Finally, the cooled evaporating dish holding the solid content was weighed and recorded as W2, and the percentage (%) of the solid content was calculated as [(W1–W2) ÷ W1] × 100.


#### 2.5.4. Measurement of Surface Tension

Surface tension measurements were carried out using a 10% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation prepared with sterile distilled water at 25°C. The surface tension of each solution was measured by the stalagmometric method. Thus, the stalagmometer was thoroughly cleaned using chromic acid and sterile distilled water to remove any traces of greases and lubricants because they greatly affect surface tension. The surface tension was calculated using this formulaR2 = [((W3–W1) × N1) ÷ ((W2–W1) × N2)] × R1, where W1 is the weight of empty beaker, W2 is the weight of beaker with distilled water, W3 is the weight of beaker with formulation solution, N1 is the number of drops of distilled water, N2 is the number of drops of formulation solution, R1 is the surface tension of distilled water at 25°C, and R2 is the surface tension of shampoo solution at 25°C [41].


#### 2.5.5. Dirt Dispersion

Two drops (0.10 mL) formulation was added into a 100 mL test tube containing 10 mL sterile distilled water. Then, one drop (0.05 mL) of India ink was added to the test tube, stoppered, and shaken 10 times. The amount of ink in the foam was estimated as none, light, moderate, and heavy by three randomly selected volunteering students.


#### 2.5.6. Rheological (Viscosity) Evaluations

The viscosities of the hair washing formulations were determined using the Brookfield Viscometer (Model DV-l Plus, LV, USA) set at different spindle speeds ranging from 0.3 to 10 rpm. Viscosity measurements were carried out using spindle T95 by maintaining the temperature at 25°C and the sizes of the containers holding formulation samples constant.


#### 2.5.7. Foaming Ability and Foam Stability

The foaming ability of the formulations was determined using the cylinder shake method at 25°C. Fifty (50) mL of the 1% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation was put into a 250 mL graduated cylinder. The cylinder was covered by hand, shaken 10 times, and left to stand for 1 min in a test tube rack. The volume of the foam was recorded at the end of 1 min standing. This represented the foaming ability. The foaming stability was, likewise, determined by measuring the volume of the foam at 1, 2, 3, and 4 min after shaking and observing the decrement in foam volume [44].


#### 2.5.8. Wetting Time Test

The wetting times of the hair washing formulations were determined using the canvas disc method with some modifications [38–40, 45]. One (1) inch diameter discs, weighing 0.45 grams, were cut out from a smooth garment (velvet). Also, 400 mL of 1% (v/v) solutions were prepared in a 500 mL graduated cylinder from all the formulations. Wetting time of each formulation was tested by floating a canvas disc on the graduated cylinder holding the 400 mL solution and recording the time required for the disk to start sinking using a stopwatch. The time required for the disc to start sinking was recorded as wetting time.


#### 2.5.9. Evaluation of Conditioning Performance

Conditioning performances of the formulations were evaluated using the procedure developed by Boonme et al. [43] with some modifications. Ethiopian male hair cut was collected from barber shop and divided into 5 g mass. One 5 g mass served as control and another 5 g mass was washed with each formulation. Washing solution was prepared by mixing 1 mL of formulation and 50 mL of distilled water in a conical flask. Then, the 5 g hair mass was put into the flask, shaken for 2 min, rinsed with 100 mL distilled water, placed in plastic sheet, and allowed to dry at room temperature. The control hair mass was washed with distilled water only. Finally, the smoothness and softness (i.e., conditioning performance) of the hair mass was estimated by blind touch test methods involving three randomly selected volunteering students. The students were blind folded and asked to touch (feel) the hair mass for its smoothness and softness, and rate it as poor, satisfactory, good, and excellent. They also visually inspected the hair mass for its glowing appearance and silkiness.


## 2.1. Collection and Preparation of Plant Specimens

Healthy and mature leaves ofA. elegans were collected from wild stand at north of Sele (at about 86 km on the Mekelle-Abbiyi Addi highway; latitude/longitude: 13.560/39.026; altitude: 1,694 m) on 21 December 2018. Collection of plant materials by natives (Ethiopians) for research is granted by Article 15, Clause 1, of the Access to Genetic Resources and Community Knowledge and Community Rights Proclamation of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (No. 482/2006). Specimens of the plant were identified by the National Herbarium (ETH), the Department of Biology, Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia). The leaves were rinsed with running tap water to remove any dirt and soil. The leaf (i.e., outer green skin) and the gel (i.e., inner gelatinous mass) were separated by peeling the skin off with a scalpel knife. The mass of gel was dried in shade at room temperature for 18 days. The dried mass of gel was then pulverized into powder using an electrical grinder and stored in a sealed container until used for phytochemical study.


## 2.2. Phytochemistry of Gel Extracts

Powder ofA. elegans gel was extracted by 100% methanol using the continuous hot percolation method in Soxhlet apparatus for 18 hours. The extract was concentrated in a rotary evaporator into brown liquid and kept at 4°C in a deep freezer. Samples of the extract were taken out and subjected to phytochemical screening using the standard tests for alkaloids (Wagner test) [33], anthraquinones (Borntrager’s test) [34], flavonoids (lead acetate test) [35], saponins (Froth test) [36], tannins (ferric chloride test) [37], and terpenoids (Salkowski test) [36].


## 2.3. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Analysis

Likewise, samples of the gel extract were sent to JIJE LOBOGLASS Plc.—a certified analytical laboratory in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—for gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. The instrument control parameters of the GC-MS are given in Appendix. The GC-MS analysis was carried out to determine the essential oil and fatty acid methyl ester contents of the gel.


## 2.4. Preparation of Hair Washing Formulations fromA. elegans Gel

Five lab-made hair washing formulations were prepared by mixingA. elegans gel mass with six natural and formulated ingredients. The ingredients were coconut oil, jojoba oil, lemon juice, olive oil, pure glycerin oil, and vitamin E (Table 1).Table 1
Ingredients used in preparing lab-made hair washing formulations fromA. elegans gel.
Generic nameManufacturerBiological applicationsA. elegans gel—Repairs, strengthens, hydrates, and softens hair; makes hair look and feel healthier; heals wounds; acts as natural surfactantCoconut oilC.B.C., MalaysiaPrevents protein loss in hair; moisturizes skin; acts as a natural sunscreenJojoba oilORS, USAMoisturizes and gives hair shining lookLemon juiceFresh lab extractActs as natural antioxidant, chelating, and antidandruff agent; maintains the pH of the acidic formulationOlive oilSalamati, SpainMoisturizes hair; minimizes scalp irritation; reduces dandruffPure glycerin oilLFRESSH-Eurogulf, UAEHydrates skin; enhances cell maturation; removes dandruffVitamin EFruit of the Earth, USASupports scalp; gives hair strong base to grow; reduces oxidative stress; preserves protective lipid layerThe gel masses were mixed with the ingredients according to the ratio indicated in Table2 to prepare enough volume hair washing formulations [38–40]. Then, mixtures were homogenized one by one with magnetic stirrer at 400 rpm for 30 min at 30°C, and white smooth formulations were obtained. Finally, the formulations were transferred into labeled collapsible plastic tubes and kept at room temperature for physicochemical evaluation.Table 2
Preparation of hair washing formulations fromA. elegans gel.
IngredientsUoM∗FormulationsF1F2F3F4F5Vol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vVol.% v/vA. elegans gelmL4.093.0694.5896.41096.61096.6Coconut oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4820.97Olive oilgtt.11.1621.5710.6020.9710.48Jojoba oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Glycerin oilgtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Vitamin Egtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48Lemon juicegtt.11.1610.7910.6010.4810.48∗UoM, unit of measurement; mL: milliliter; gtt.: drop (0.05 mL).


## 2.5. Evaluation of the Characteristics of the Hair Washing Formulations

The formulations were evaluated via sensory inspection and physical assessment methods based on procedures developed and used by many researchers against a marketed shampoo (product name: Aloe Vera Hair Shampoo; producer: Perfect Cosmetics, UAE; size: 5.5 mL; description: natural blend ofAloe vera extract and moisturizers; manufactured: 02/2018; expiry: 02/2021) [38–45].


### 2.5.1. Sensory Inspection

The physical appearance of the lab-made formulations was evaluated based their color, clarity, odor, consistency, and spreadability. The visual inspection of each formulation was carried out by three randomly selected volunteering students at room temperature.


### 2.5.2. Determination of pH

A 10% (v/v) solution was prepared from each hair washing formulation using sterile distilled water. The pH of each solution was determined at room temperature (25°C) and recorded.


### 2.5.3. Determination of Solids Contents

Four (4) grams of hair washing formulation was placed onto a clean, dry evaporating dish. The evaporating dish holding the shampoo was weighed using electronic balance, and the total weight was recorded as W1. Then, the evaporating dish was placed on the hot plate at 50°C and was kept until the liquid content was completely evaporated. Finally, the cooled evaporating dish holding the solid content was weighed and recorded as W2, and the percentage (%) of the solid content was calculated as [(W1–W2) ÷ W1] × 100.


### 2.5.4. Measurement of Surface Tension

Surface tension measurements were carried out using a 10% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation prepared with sterile distilled water at 25°C. The surface tension of each solution was measured by the stalagmometric method. Thus, the stalagmometer was thoroughly cleaned using chromic acid and sterile distilled water to remove any traces of greases and lubricants because they greatly affect surface tension. The surface tension was calculated using this formulaR2 = [((W3–W1) × N1) ÷ ((W2–W1) × N2)] × R1, where W1 is the weight of empty beaker, W2 is the weight of beaker with distilled water, W3 is the weight of beaker with formulation solution, N1 is the number of drops of distilled water, N2 is the number of drops of formulation solution, R1 is the surface tension of distilled water at 25°C, and R2 is the surface tension of shampoo solution at 25°C [41].


### 2.5.5. Dirt Dispersion

Two drops (0.10 mL) formulation was added into a 100 mL test tube containing 10 mL sterile distilled water. Then, one drop (0.05 mL) of India ink was added to the test tube, stoppered, and shaken 10 times. The amount of ink in the foam was estimated as none, light, moderate, and heavy by three randomly selected volunteering students.


### 2.5.6. Rheological (Viscosity) Evaluations

The viscosities of the hair washing formulations were determined using the Brookfield Viscometer (Model DV-l Plus, LV, USA) set at different spindle speeds ranging from 0.3 to 10 rpm. Viscosity measurements were carried out using spindle T95 by maintaining the temperature at 25°C and the sizes of the containers holding formulation samples constant.


### 2.5.7. Foaming Ability and Foam Stability

The foaming ability of the formulations was determined using the cylinder shake method at 25°C. Fifty (50) mL of the 1% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation was put into a 250 mL graduated cylinder. The cylinder was covered by hand, shaken 10 times, and left to stand for 1 min in a test tube rack. The volume of the foam was recorded at the end of 1 min standing. This represented the foaming ability. The foaming stability was, likewise, determined by measuring the volume of the foam at 1, 2, 3, and 4 min after shaking and observing the decrement in foam volume [44].


### 2.5.8. Wetting Time Test

The wetting times of the hair washing formulations were determined using the canvas disc method with some modifications [38–40, 45]. One (1) inch diameter discs, weighing 0.45 grams, were cut out from a smooth garment (velvet). Also, 400 mL of 1% (v/v) solutions were prepared in a 500 mL graduated cylinder from all the formulations. Wetting time of each formulation was tested by floating a canvas disc on the graduated cylinder holding the 400 mL solution and recording the time required for the disk to start sinking using a stopwatch. The time required for the disc to start sinking was recorded as wetting time.


### 2.5.9. Evaluation of Conditioning Performance

Conditioning performances of the formulations were evaluated using the procedure developed by Boonme et al. [43] with some modifications. Ethiopian male hair cut was collected from barber shop and divided into 5 g mass. One 5 g mass served as control and another 5 g mass was washed with each formulation. Washing solution was prepared by mixing 1 mL of formulation and 50 mL of distilled water in a conical flask. Then, the 5 g hair mass was put into the flask, shaken for 2 min, rinsed with 100 mL distilled water, placed in plastic sheet, and allowed to dry at room temperature. The control hair mass was washed with distilled water only. Finally, the smoothness and softness (i.e., conditioning performance) of the hair mass was estimated by blind touch test methods involving three randomly selected volunteering students. The students were blind folded and asked to touch (feel) the hair mass for its smoothness and softness, and rate it as poor, satisfactory, good, and excellent. They also visually inspected the hair mass for its glowing appearance and silkiness.


## 2.5.1. Sensory Inspection

The physical appearance of the lab-made formulations was evaluated based their color, clarity, odor, consistency, and spreadability. The visual inspection of each formulation was carried out by three randomly selected volunteering students at room temperature.


## 2.5.2. Determination of pH

A 10% (v/v) solution was prepared from each hair washing formulation using sterile distilled water. The pH of each solution was determined at room temperature (25°C) and recorded.


## 2.5.3. Determination of Solids Contents

Four (4) grams of hair washing formulation was placed onto a clean, dry evaporating dish. The evaporating dish holding the shampoo was weighed using electronic balance, and the total weight was recorded as W1. Then, the evaporating dish was placed on the hot plate at 50°C and was kept until the liquid content was completely evaporated. Finally, the cooled evaporating dish holding the solid content was weighed and recorded as W2, and the percentage (%) of the solid content was calculated as [(W1–W2) ÷ W1] × 100.


## 2.5.4. Measurement of Surface Tension

Surface tension measurements were carried out using a 10% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation prepared with sterile distilled water at 25°C. The surface tension of each solution was measured by the stalagmometric method. Thus, the stalagmometer was thoroughly cleaned using chromic acid and sterile distilled water to remove any traces of greases and lubricants because they greatly affect surface tension. The surface tension was calculated using this formulaR2 = [((W3–W1) × N1) ÷ ((W2–W1) × N2)] × R1, where W1 is the weight of empty beaker, W2 is the weight of beaker with distilled water, W3 is the weight of beaker with formulation solution, N1 is the number of drops of distilled water, N2 is the number of drops of formulation solution, R1 is the surface tension of distilled water at 25°C, and R2 is the surface tension of shampoo solution at 25°C [41].


## 2.5.5. Dirt Dispersion

Two drops (0.10 mL) formulation was added into a 100 mL test tube containing 10 mL sterile distilled water. Then, one drop (0.05 mL) of India ink was added to the test tube, stoppered, and shaken 10 times. The amount of ink in the foam was estimated as none, light, moderate, and heavy by three randomly selected volunteering students.


## 2.5.6. Rheological (Viscosity) Evaluations

The viscosities of the hair washing formulations were determined using the Brookfield Viscometer (Model DV-l Plus, LV, USA) set at different spindle speeds ranging from 0.3 to 10 rpm. Viscosity measurements were carried out using spindle T95 by maintaining the temperature at 25°C and the sizes of the containers holding formulation samples constant.


## 2.5.7. Foaming Ability and Foam Stability

The foaming ability of the formulations was determined using the cylinder shake method at 25°C. Fifty (50) mL of the 1% (v/v) solution of hair washing formulation was put into a 250 mL graduated cylinder. The cylinder was covered by hand, shaken 10 times, and left to stand for 1 min in a test tube rack. The volume of the foam was recorded at the end of 1 min standing. This represented the foaming ability. The foaming stability was, likewise, determined by measuring the volume of the foam at 1, 2, 3, and 4 min after shaking and observing the decrement in foam volume [44].


## 2.5.8. Wetting Time Test

The wetting times of the hair washing formulations were determined using the canvas disc method with some modifications [38–40, 45]. One (1) inch diameter discs, weighing 0.45 grams, were cut out from a smooth garment (velvet). Also, 400 mL of 1% (v/v) solutions were prepared in a 500 mL graduated cylinder from all the formulations. Wetting time of each formulation was tested by floating a canvas disc on the graduated cylinder holding the 400 mL solution and recording the time required for the disk to start sinking using a stopwatch. The time required for the disc to start sinking was recorded as wetting time.


## 2.5.9. Evaluation of Conditioning Performance

Conditioning performances of the formulations were evaluated using the procedure developed by Boonme et al. [43] with some modifications. Ethiopian male hair cut was collected from barber shop and divided into 5 g mass. One 5 g mass served as control and another 5 g mass was washed with each formulation. Washing solution was prepared by mixing 1 mL of formulation and 50 mL of distilled water in a conical flask. Then, the 5 g hair mass was put into the flask, shaken for 2 min, rinsed with 100 mL distilled water, placed in plastic sheet, and allowed to dry at room temperature. The control hair mass was washed with distilled water only. Finally, the smoothness and softness (i.e., conditioning performance) of the hair mass was estimated by blind touch test methods involving three randomly selected volunteering students. The students were blind folded and asked to touch (feel) the hair mass for its smoothness and softness, and rate it as poor, satisfactory, good, and excellent. They also visually inspected the hair mass for its glowing appearance and silkiness.


## 3. Results and Discussion

### 3.1. Phytochemistry ofA. elegans Gel

Like manyAloe species, A. elegans is the source of many useful phytochemicals. The present phytochemical screening using methanol gel extracts of the species yielded positive results for anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins (Table 3). Another study reported the presence of terpenoids by using ethyl acetate extract [21].Table 3
Phytochemical screening ofA. elegans leaf gel.
PhytochemicalsTestsInspectionResultsReferenceAlkaloidsWagner testBrownish-red precipitate−[33]AnthraquinonesBorntrager’s testPink, red+[34]FlavonoidsLead acetate testYellow precipitate+[35]SaponinsFroth testFoam+[36]TanninsFerric chloride testDark-green+[37]TerpenoidsSalkowski testReddish-brown−[36]“+” sign indicates the presence, and “–” sign indicates absence of the chemical constituents.GC-MS analysis of gel extract ofA. elegans resulted in 12 compounds (Table 4, Figure 1). The compounds or their derivatives are used in formulating beauty and personal care products. Decanoic (capric) acid (1), dodecanoic (lauric) acid (2), hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid (8), (Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid (9), and phytol (11) are used in preparing personal care products such as soaps and detergents. Moreover, decanoic (capric) acid (1), tetradecanoic (myristic) acid (6), hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid (8), (Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid (9), and phytol (11) are used to formulate cosmetics and beauty products. Phytol (11) and octadecanoic (stearic) acid (12) are also important components in producing commercial shampoos and shaving creams. Furthermore, whereas compound 9 is important source of surfactants, compound 12 is used in saponification [46]. Similar fatty acids and essential oils were found in A. adigratana Reynolds [38].Table 4
Chemical composition of A.elegans leaf gel extract.
SNNameFormulaAreaRT% area1Decanoic (capric) acid, methyl esterC11H22O2408,49721.370.692Dodecanoic (lauric) acid, methyl esterC13H26O21,516,57926.552.553Ar-tumeroneC15H20O3,401,56629.925.724TumeroneC15H22O2,691,77630.044.535CurloneC15H22O2,261,92730.793.816Tetradecanoic (myristic) acid, methyl esterC15H30O25,658,34931.169.5279-Methyltetradecanoic (9-methylmyristic) acid, methyl esterC16H32O2661,02833.501.118Hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid, methyl esterC17H34O218,109,46236.5530.479(Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid, methyl esterC19H34O24,180,21543.767.0310(E)-9-octadecadienoic (elaidic) acid, methyl esterC19H36O214,946,08344.0925.1411PhytolC20H40O1,229,91944.482.0712Octadecanoic (stearic) acid, methyl esterC19H38O24,376,31745.127.36Figure 1
GC-MS analysis ofA. elegans leaf gel extract.


### 3.2. Evaluation of Hair Washing Formulations ofA. elegans Gel

#### 3.2.1. Sensory Assessment

Cosmetic products including hair washing shampoos have attractive appearance to the sensory observer. Sensory observation and simple measurements showed that the formulations were white and turbid with characteristically good odor without major difference from the commercial shampoo (Table5). The white color of the formulations was due to the absence of the coloring agent. The color, turbidity, and odor of the shampoos did not change with increasing the proportion of the gel.Table 5
Physical inspection of hair washing formulations ofA. elegans gel.
FormulationsColorClarityOdorConsistencySpreadabilitypHTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.525F2 (6 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.625F3 (8 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.625F4 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.525F5 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.425MarketedGreenTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.725Formulations 1–4 containing 4–10 mL gel are thinner. Slightly thick formulation, such as the marketed shampoo, was produced with 10 mL of gel and 2 drops coconut oil in F5. Likewise, formulations with higher gel volume (8–10 mL) showed best consistency as the marketed shampoo. Varying the proportion of the gel did not bring about significant change in pH of the formulations—falling within the pH range of many marketed shampoos [38–40, 47].


#### 3.2.2. Quality Characteristics

Solid content, foam stability, dirt dispersion, surface tension, wetting time, and conditioning performance are the principal parameters used in the qualitative evaluation of shampoos. The physical characteristics of the hair washing laboratory formulations are summarized in Table6.Table 6
Evaluations ofA. elegans hair washing formulations.
FormulationSolid content (%)Foam stabilityDirt in the foamSurface tension (dynes/cm)Wetting time (sec.)Conditioning performanceTemp. (°C)F1 (4 mL)23Very goodNot detected38142Good25F2 (6 mL)24Very goodNot detected37150Good25F3 (8 mL)26Very goodNot detected36152Good25F4 (10 mL)28Very goodNot detected34153Good25F5 (10 mL)29Very goodNot detected33160Good25Marketed26Very goodNot detected32185Good25(1). Solid Content. The solid contents of our formulations ranged from 23% to 29% (Table 6). Quality shampoos are preferred to have the solid content of 20%–30%. Shampoos with lower solid content are thin and watery while those with higher solid content are thick and greasy. Whereas thin shampoos drain off the hair quickly, the thick ones are difficult to work with [39, 41, 48, 49]. Increasing the proportion of the gel from 2 mL to 10 mL consistently led to the raising of the solid contents of the formulations. Thus, the solid content of A. elegans-based hair washing formulations can be easily decided by fixing the proportion of the gel [38].(2). Foam Ability and Stability. Good shampoos have bigger and stable foams upon shaking. Foam volume and stability are principal quality parameters of shampoos [50]. All our formulations were very good in terms of volume and stability similar to the marketed A. vera shampoo. All the formulations were compact, uniform, and stable maintaining their volumes for more than four minutes. Similar findings were reported with lab-made A. adigratana formulations [38].(3). Dirt Dispersion. Shampoos that concentrate dirt or stain in their foams are regarded as low quality [39, 40, 51]. But good shampoos and detergents concentrate the dirt in the water. Since the dirt is often water insoluble, it is removed by the help of surfactants present in the shampoos and detergents. The present study showed that all the formulations yielded clean foams with no dirt like the marketed shampoo (Table 6). These imply that the linoleic acid (Compound 9) present in the leaf gel of the species is an important source of surfactants. Similar observations were reported elsewhere [38, 48, 52].(4). Surface Tension. Good shampoos and detergents reduce the surface tension of pure water from 72 dynes/cm to below 40 dynes/cm at 25°C [53] to improve detergency [54]. Our study resulted in A. elegans formulations with surface tension ranging from 33 (10 mL gel) to 38 dynes/cm (4 mL gel) at 25°C (Table 6). Other researchers also formulated herbal shampoos with surface tension between 30 and 40 dynes/cm [38, 49, 50]. The decrease of the surface tension of the formulations with increasing the proportion of gel might be accounted for the amount of surfactants (linoleic acid) in the gel. Increasing the proportion of the A. elegans gel resulted in formulations with surface tension comparable to that of the marketed shampoo [38].(5). Wetting Ability. Shampoos with high concentration of surfactants have better wetting abilities. Canvas disc tests resulted that our A. elegans hair washing formulations have lower wetting time (142–160 sec) compared to the market A. vera shampoo (185 sec) (Table 6). Higher concentration of detergents causes lower wetting time [38, 42].(6). Conditioning Performance. The conditioning performances of shampoos are largely affected by their chemical properties. They are, therefore, formulated by enriching them with conditioning agents. The agents deposit, adhere, or adsorb onto proteins of hair and improve its manageability. They also reduce hair static and make it soft and smooth [42]. Samples of Ethiopian cut hair washed with the formulations became smooth and soft as compared to that washed with pure water. Thus, all the formulations demonstrated that good conditioning performance rendered the hair samples glowing, soft, silky, and manageable. The conditioning performance of the formulations may be accounted to the capric (1), lauric (2), myristic (6), palmitic (8), and stearic (12) acids detected in the gel. Fatty acids with 8–18 carbons are used in formulating shampoos and conditioners [46, 55].(7). Viscosity. Viscosity affects the spreadability and consistency of shampoos. Good shampoos spread easily upon application and remain consistent until use [41]. The viscosities of the formulations of the present study ranged from 13.56 (4 mL gel) to 26.73 poise (10 mL gel). Viscosities of the formulations prepared using 6–10 mL of gel are close to that of the marketed shampoo (26.45 poise) (Table 7). The viscosities of the formulations were increased by increasing the amount of the gel. The moisture contents of the formulations were also ranged between 95% and 96%. Therefore, A. elegans formulations with higher proportion of gel were found to have comparable viscosities and other properties with the marketed shampoo [38–40].Table 7
Viscosities ofA. elegans gel formulations.
FormulationsViscosity (poise)Speed (rpm)% FSRShear stressStress rateTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)13.566037.89112.87899.9925F2 (6 mL)26.476066.67168.38899.9925F3 (8 mL)26.666069.52169.94899.9925F4 (10 mL)26.736069.11169.72899.9925F5 (10 mL)26.456068.78169.11899.9925Marketed26.926069.98169.91899.9925


## 3.1. Phytochemistry ofA. elegans Gel

Like manyAloe species, A. elegans is the source of many useful phytochemicals. The present phytochemical screening using methanol gel extracts of the species yielded positive results for anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins (Table 3). Another study reported the presence of terpenoids by using ethyl acetate extract [21].Table 3
Phytochemical screening ofA. elegans leaf gel.
PhytochemicalsTestsInspectionResultsReferenceAlkaloidsWagner testBrownish-red precipitate−[33]AnthraquinonesBorntrager’s testPink, red+[34]FlavonoidsLead acetate testYellow precipitate+[35]SaponinsFroth testFoam+[36]TanninsFerric chloride testDark-green+[37]TerpenoidsSalkowski testReddish-brown−[36]“+” sign indicates the presence, and “–” sign indicates absence of the chemical constituents.GC-MS analysis of gel extract ofA. elegans resulted in 12 compounds (Table 4, Figure 1). The compounds or their derivatives are used in formulating beauty and personal care products. Decanoic (capric) acid (1), dodecanoic (lauric) acid (2), hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid (8), (Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid (9), and phytol (11) are used in preparing personal care products such as soaps and detergents. Moreover, decanoic (capric) acid (1), tetradecanoic (myristic) acid (6), hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid (8), (Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid (9), and phytol (11) are used to formulate cosmetics and beauty products. Phytol (11) and octadecanoic (stearic) acid (12) are also important components in producing commercial shampoos and shaving creams. Furthermore, whereas compound 9 is important source of surfactants, compound 12 is used in saponification [46]. Similar fatty acids and essential oils were found in A. adigratana Reynolds [38].Table 4
Chemical composition of A.elegans leaf gel extract.
SNNameFormulaAreaRT% area1Decanoic (capric) acid, methyl esterC11H22O2408,49721.370.692Dodecanoic (lauric) acid, methyl esterC13H26O21,516,57926.552.553Ar-tumeroneC15H20O3,401,56629.925.724TumeroneC15H22O2,691,77630.044.535CurloneC15H22O2,261,92730.793.816Tetradecanoic (myristic) acid, methyl esterC15H30O25,658,34931.169.5279-Methyltetradecanoic (9-methylmyristic) acid, methyl esterC16H32O2661,02833.501.118Hexadecanoic (palmitic) acid, methyl esterC17H34O218,109,46236.5530.479(Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic (linoleic) acid, methyl esterC19H34O24,180,21543.767.0310(E)-9-octadecadienoic (elaidic) acid, methyl esterC19H36O214,946,08344.0925.1411PhytolC20H40O1,229,91944.482.0712Octadecanoic (stearic) acid, methyl esterC19H38O24,376,31745.127.36Figure 1
GC-MS analysis ofA. elegans leaf gel extract.


## 3.2. Evaluation of Hair Washing Formulations ofA. elegans Gel

### 3.2.1. Sensory Assessment

Cosmetic products including hair washing shampoos have attractive appearance to the sensory observer. Sensory observation and simple measurements showed that the formulations were white and turbid with characteristically good odor without major difference from the commercial shampoo (Table5). The white color of the formulations was due to the absence of the coloring agent. The color, turbidity, and odor of the shampoos did not change with increasing the proportion of the gel.Table 5
Physical inspection of hair washing formulations ofA. elegans gel.
FormulationsColorClarityOdorConsistencySpreadabilitypHTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.525F2 (6 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.625F3 (8 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.625F4 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.525F5 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.425MarketedGreenTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.725Formulations 1–4 containing 4–10 mL gel are thinner. Slightly thick formulation, such as the marketed shampoo, was produced with 10 mL of gel and 2 drops coconut oil in F5. Likewise, formulations with higher gel volume (8–10 mL) showed best consistency as the marketed shampoo. Varying the proportion of the gel did not bring about significant change in pH of the formulations—falling within the pH range of many marketed shampoos [38–40, 47].


### 3.2.2. Quality Characteristics

Solid content, foam stability, dirt dispersion, surface tension, wetting time, and conditioning performance are the principal parameters used in the qualitative evaluation of shampoos. The physical characteristics of the hair washing laboratory formulations are summarized in Table6.Table 6
Evaluations ofA. elegans hair washing formulations.
FormulationSolid content (%)Foam stabilityDirt in the foamSurface tension (dynes/cm)Wetting time (sec.)Conditioning performanceTemp. (°C)F1 (4 mL)23Very goodNot detected38142Good25F2 (6 mL)24Very goodNot detected37150Good25F3 (8 mL)26Very goodNot detected36152Good25F4 (10 mL)28Very goodNot detected34153Good25F5 (10 mL)29Very goodNot detected33160Good25Marketed26Very goodNot detected32185Good25(1). Solid Content. The solid contents of our formulations ranged from 23% to 29% (Table 6). Quality shampoos are preferred to have the solid content of 20%–30%. Shampoos with lower solid content are thin and watery while those with higher solid content are thick and greasy. Whereas thin shampoos drain off the hair quickly, the thick ones are difficult to work with [39, 41, 48, 49]. Increasing the proportion of the gel from 2 mL to 10 mL consistently led to the raising of the solid contents of the formulations. Thus, the solid content of A. elegans-based hair washing formulations can be easily decided by fixing the proportion of the gel [38].(2). Foam Ability and Stability. Good shampoos have bigger and stable foams upon shaking. Foam volume and stability are principal quality parameters of shampoos [50]. All our formulations were very good in terms of volume and stability similar to the marketed A. vera shampoo. All the formulations were compact, uniform, and stable maintaining their volumes for more than four minutes. Similar findings were reported with lab-made A. adigratana formulations [38].(3). Dirt Dispersion. Shampoos that concentrate dirt or stain in their foams are regarded as low quality [39, 40, 51]. But good shampoos and detergents concentrate the dirt in the water. Since the dirt is often water insoluble, it is removed by the help of surfactants present in the shampoos and detergents. The present study showed that all the formulations yielded clean foams with no dirt like the marketed shampoo (Table 6). These imply that the linoleic acid (Compound 9) present in the leaf gel of the species is an important source of surfactants. Similar observations were reported elsewhere [38, 48, 52].(4). Surface Tension. Good shampoos and detergents reduce the surface tension of pure water from 72 dynes/cm to below 40 dynes/cm at 25°C [53] to improve detergency [54]. Our study resulted in A. elegans formulations with surface tension ranging from 33 (10 mL gel) to 38 dynes/cm (4 mL gel) at 25°C (Table 6). Other researchers also formulated herbal shampoos with surface tension between 30 and 40 dynes/cm [38, 49, 50]. The decrease of the surface tension of the formulations with increasing the proportion of gel might be accounted for the amount of surfactants (linoleic acid) in the gel. Increasing the proportion of the A. elegans gel resulted in formulations with surface tension comparable to that of the marketed shampoo [38].(5). Wetting Ability. Shampoos with high concentration of surfactants have better wetting abilities. Canvas disc tests resulted that our A. elegans hair washing formulations have lower wetting time (142–160 sec) compared to the market A. vera shampoo (185 sec) (Table 6). Higher concentration of detergents causes lower wetting time [38, 42].(6). Conditioning Performance. The conditioning performances of shampoos are largely affected by their chemical properties. They are, therefore, formulated by enriching them with conditioning agents. The agents deposit, adhere, or adsorb onto proteins of hair and improve its manageability. They also reduce hair static and make it soft and smooth [42]. Samples of Ethiopian cut hair washed with the formulations became smooth and soft as compared to that washed with pure water. Thus, all the formulations demonstrated that good conditioning performance rendered the hair samples glowing, soft, silky, and manageable. The conditioning performance of the formulations may be accounted to the capric (1), lauric (2), myristic (6), palmitic (8), and stearic (12) acids detected in the gel. Fatty acids with 8–18 carbons are used in formulating shampoos and conditioners [46, 55].(7). Viscosity. Viscosity affects the spreadability and consistency of shampoos. Good shampoos spread easily upon application and remain consistent until use [41]. The viscosities of the formulations of the present study ranged from 13.56 (4 mL gel) to 26.73 poise (10 mL gel). Viscosities of the formulations prepared using 6–10 mL of gel are close to that of the marketed shampoo (26.45 poise) (Table 7). The viscosities of the formulations were increased by increasing the amount of the gel. The moisture contents of the formulations were also ranged between 95% and 96%. Therefore, A. elegans formulations with higher proportion of gel were found to have comparable viscosities and other properties with the marketed shampoo [38–40].Table 7
Viscosities ofA. elegans gel formulations.
FormulationsViscosity (poise)Speed (rpm)% FSRShear stressStress rateTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)13.566037.89112.87899.9925F2 (6 mL)26.476066.67168.38899.9925F3 (8 mL)26.666069.52169.94899.9925F4 (10 mL)26.736069.11169.72899.9925F5 (10 mL)26.456068.78169.11899.9925Marketed26.926069.98169.91899.9925


## 3.2.1. Sensory Assessment

Cosmetic products including hair washing shampoos have attractive appearance to the sensory observer. Sensory observation and simple measurements showed that the formulations were white and turbid with characteristically good odor without major difference from the commercial shampoo (Table5). The white color of the formulations was due to the absence of the coloring agent. The color, turbidity, and odor of the shampoos did not change with increasing the proportion of the gel.Table 5
Physical inspection of hair washing formulations ofA. elegans gel.
FormulationsColorClarityOdorConsistencySpreadabilitypHTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.525F2 (6 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinGood6.625F3 (8 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.625F4 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicThinBest6.525F5 (10 mL)WhiteTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.425MarketedGreenTurbidCharacteristicSlightly thickBest6.725Formulations 1–4 containing 4–10 mL gel are thinner. Slightly thick formulation, such as the marketed shampoo, was produced with 10 mL of gel and 2 drops coconut oil in F5. Likewise, formulations with higher gel volume (8–10 mL) showed best consistency as the marketed shampoo. Varying the proportion of the gel did not bring about significant change in pH of the formulations—falling within the pH range of many marketed shampoos [38–40, 47].


## 3.2.2. Quality Characteristics

Solid content, foam stability, dirt dispersion, surface tension, wetting time, and conditioning performance are the principal parameters used in the qualitative evaluation of shampoos. The physical characteristics of the hair washing laboratory formulations are summarized in Table6.Table 6
Evaluations ofA. elegans hair washing formulations.
FormulationSolid content (%)Foam stabilityDirt in the foamSurface tension (dynes/cm)Wetting time (sec.)Conditioning performanceTemp. (°C)F1 (4 mL)23Very goodNot detected38142Good25F2 (6 mL)24Very goodNot detected37150Good25F3 (8 mL)26Very goodNot detected36152Good25F4 (10 mL)28Very goodNot detected34153Good25F5 (10 mL)29Very goodNot detected33160Good25Marketed26Very goodNot detected32185Good25(1). Solid Content. The solid contents of our formulations ranged from 23% to 29% (Table 6). Quality shampoos are preferred to have the solid content of 20%–30%. Shampoos with lower solid content are thin and watery while those with higher solid content are thick and greasy. Whereas thin shampoos drain off the hair quickly, the thick ones are difficult to work with [39, 41, 48, 49]. Increasing the proportion of the gel from 2 mL to 10 mL consistently led to the raising of the solid contents of the formulations. Thus, the solid content of A. elegans-based hair washing formulations can be easily decided by fixing the proportion of the gel [38].(2). Foam Ability and Stability. Good shampoos have bigger and stable foams upon shaking. Foam volume and stability are principal quality parameters of shampoos [50]. All our formulations were very good in terms of volume and stability similar to the marketed A. vera shampoo. All the formulations were compact, uniform, and stable maintaining their volumes for more than four minutes. Similar findings were reported with lab-made A. adigratana formulations [38].(3). Dirt Dispersion. Shampoos that concentrate dirt or stain in their foams are regarded as low quality [39, 40, 51]. But good shampoos and detergents concentrate the dirt in the water. Since the dirt is often water insoluble, it is removed by the help of surfactants present in the shampoos and detergents. The present study showed that all the formulations yielded clean foams with no dirt like the marketed shampoo (Table 6). These imply that the linoleic acid (Compound 9) present in the leaf gel of the species is an important source of surfactants. Similar observations were reported elsewhere [38, 48, 52].(4). Surface Tension. Good shampoos and detergents reduce the surface tension of pure water from 72 dynes/cm to below 40 dynes/cm at 25°C [53] to improve detergency [54]. Our study resulted in A. elegans formulations with surface tension ranging from 33 (10 mL gel) to 38 dynes/cm (4 mL gel) at 25°C (Table 6). Other researchers also formulated herbal shampoos with surface tension between 30 and 40 dynes/cm [38, 49, 50]. The decrease of the surface tension of the formulations with increasing the proportion of gel might be accounted for the amount of surfactants (linoleic acid) in the gel. Increasing the proportion of the A. elegans gel resulted in formulations with surface tension comparable to that of the marketed shampoo [38].(5). Wetting Ability. Shampoos with high concentration of surfactants have better wetting abilities. Canvas disc tests resulted that our A. elegans hair washing formulations have lower wetting time (142–160 sec) compared to the market A. vera shampoo (185 sec) (Table 6). Higher concentration of detergents causes lower wetting time [38, 42].(6). Conditioning Performance. The conditioning performances of shampoos are largely affected by their chemical properties. They are, therefore, formulated by enriching them with conditioning agents. The agents deposit, adhere, or adsorb onto proteins of hair and improve its manageability. They also reduce hair static and make it soft and smooth [42]. Samples of Ethiopian cut hair washed with the formulations became smooth and soft as compared to that washed with pure water. Thus, all the formulations demonstrated that good conditioning performance rendered the hair samples glowing, soft, silky, and manageable. The conditioning performance of the formulations may be accounted to the capric (1), lauric (2), myristic (6), palmitic (8), and stearic (12) acids detected in the gel. Fatty acids with 8–18 carbons are used in formulating shampoos and conditioners [46, 55].(7). Viscosity. Viscosity affects the spreadability and consistency of shampoos. Good shampoos spread easily upon application and remain consistent until use [41]. The viscosities of the formulations of the present study ranged from 13.56 (4 mL gel) to 26.73 poise (10 mL gel). Viscosities of the formulations prepared using 6–10 mL of gel are close to that of the marketed shampoo (26.45 poise) (Table 7). The viscosities of the formulations were increased by increasing the amount of the gel. The moisture contents of the formulations were also ranged between 95% and 96%. Therefore, A. elegans formulations with higher proportion of gel were found to have comparable viscosities and other properties with the marketed shampoo [38–40].Table 7
Viscosities ofA. elegans gel formulations.
FormulationsViscosity (poise)Speed (rpm)% FSRShear stressStress rateTemperature (°C)F1 (4 mL)13.566037.89112.87899.9925F2 (6 mL)26.476066.67168.38899.9925F3 (8 mL)26.666069.52169.94899.9925F4 (10 mL)26.736069.11169.72899.9925F5 (10 mL)26.456068.78169.11899.9925Marketed26.926069.98169.91899.9925


## 4. Conclusion

The phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis of methanol extract revealed thatA. elegans gel is a good source of key chemical constituents used in the formulation of beauty, cosmetics, detergent, and personal care products. Likewise, the lab-made hair washing formulations prepared and evaluated in this study exhibited desirable properties recommended for similar products. Evaluation through sensory observation and physicochemical tests revealed that A. elegans gel demonstrated good potential for formulating hair shampoos. Thus, future studies may aim at establishing the complete phytochemical profile of the plant and developing refined shampoo-formulation protocol. Further work on this threatened species would encourage efforts towards its conservation and sustainable use.



---

*Source: 8835120-2020-09-01.xml*