Tridax procumbens (Linn.), Hibiscus rosasinensis (Linn.), Trigonella foenum graecum (Linn.), and Embilica officinalis
(Linn.) are traditionally acclaimed herbs and widely used in indigenous system of medicine for their hair growth
promoting potential. In the present study it was envisaged to formulate in-house polyherbal formulations
of the four herbs in varying ratios and evaluating the formulations for their hair growth initiating and hair
growth promoting activity. Experimental animal models for evaluation were qualitative hair growth analysis
undertaken by visual observation of two parameters, hair growth initiation time and hair growth completion
time. The HO4 formulation which showed significant reduction in hair growth initiation time was also evaluated
using other experimental models including primary skin irritation test, vascular permeability effect, protection
against cyclophosphamide induced alopecia and hair growth activity test. Hair growth initiation time was
markedly reduced by the formulation. No signs of erythema and /or edema were recorded and formulation
was thus free from any observable irritant effect. Formulation showed increased vascular permeability and was
significantly more effective in increasing cutaneous capillary permeability over a 24 h period after administration
as compared with standard. Topical application of formulation protected cyclophosphamide induced alopecia
significantly as compared to control. The formulation showed significant increase in hair length and hair
count as compared to standard and control. The results thus corroborate with the traditionally acclaimed hair
growth-promoting capabilities of the plants. The prepared polyherbal formulation also holds potential for the
treatment of alopecia