HAIR DYEING ACTIVITY OF ECLIPTA SPECIES

Abstract

The coloring of hair is one of the most important acts of adornment among those made by men and women since origins of civilization. It is estimated that up to 60% of adult men and women use colouring products, mainly to cover gray(1).Plant based hair colours are known to produce permanent effect on hair improving the condition of hair. Eclipta species commonly known as “bhringraj†have been known to restore the colour of hair and impart softness and sheen. The alkaloids were isolated and characterized from eclipta. The dyeing properties of different extracts at different pH were evaluated qualitatively. It was found to provide permanent golden yellow tint to hair and a permanent colour could be produced in combination with other fixatives like triphala in presence of iron .