Pharmaceutical and Analytical Study of Malatyadi Scalp Serum in relation to Malatyadi Taila and Their Comparative In-vitro Antimicrobial Study

Abstract

Dandruff (Pityriasis capitis), correlated with Darunaka in Ayurveda, affects approximately 50% of the global population. While classical Malatyadi Taila is a recognized treatment, modern lifestyles demand less greasy, more user-friendly delivery systems. This study aimed to reformulate the classical oil into two scalp serums - Malatyadi Scalp Serum-1 (MSS-1, extract-based) and Malatyadi Scalp Serum-2 (MSS-2, oil-based) and perform their analytical profiles and compare their in-vitro antimicrobial efficacy against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Malassezia furfur. Methods: Malatyadi Taila was prepared per Chakradatta texts. MSS-1 was formulated using hydroalcoholic extracts of Jati, Karanja, Karavira, and Chitraka while MSS-2 utilized solubilized Malatyadi Taila. Both serums were evaluated for stability, HPTLC profiles, and in-vitro antimicrobial activity against S. epidermidis and M. furfur via the Kirby-Bauer agar well diffusion method. Results: Analytical results confirmed that both serums maintained a scalp-friendly pH and stayed stable without phase separation. In antimicrobial assays, all formulations showed significant concentration-dependent activity (p<0.001). MSS-1 (extract-based) demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis. For antifungal activity against M. furfur, MSS-1 and Malatyadi Taila showed comparable high efficacy, while MSS-2 followed closely. Conclusion: The study validates the traditional use of Malatyadi ingredients and demonstrates that reformulating them into serums particularly the extract-based MSS-1 offers a more potent and cosmetically acceptable alternative to traditional oils for managing dandruff.