The Development of Phyllanthus emblica Extract in Ethosomes for Hair Loss Prevention

Background: Hair loss is not a serious health problem but leads to decreased self- confidence, personality, and psychological problems. According to Thai traditional medical wisdom, Phyllanthus emblica has the property to prevent hair loss. Ethosomes are a drug delivery system, which can increase drug delivery to deep skin layers and enhance the effectiveness of the active ingredient. Objective: This research aims to develop ethosomes of Phyllanthus emblica extract with beneficial properties. Materials and Methods: Phyllanthus emblica was extracted by a maceration method with 95% ethanol as a solvent. The total phenolic content of the extracts was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The antioxidation activity was evaluated by DPPH assay. Ethosomes were formulated by a cold method and their properties were observed. Results: The results showed that the total phenolic content of Phyllanthus emblica extract was 406.37±2.39 mg GAE/g extract. The IC₅₀ of antioxidant activity was 7.05±0.17 μg/ml. Ethosomes with 0.03% of Phyllanthus emblica extract, 2% of soya phosphatidylcholine, and 20% of ethanol had the highest percentage of entrapment efficiency (65.26%±1.80%). The ethosomes of Phyllanthus emblica extract was the spherical shape and white colloid. The particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and pH of ethosomes were 0.43±0.00 μm, 0.44±0.03, -10.40±0.28 mV, and 4.06±0.03, respectively. Conclusion: The ethosomes of Phyllanthus emblica extract had good properties and area possible alternative product for hair loss prevention.