Herbal cosmetics are products that are used to improve and enhance one’s look. Herbal cosmetics are preferred by customers as they are safe, effective, and have minimal side effects as compared to synthetic products as they are plant-based ingredients. Increasing awareness about harmful chemicals, growing interest in natural and eco-friendly lifestyles, and influence of traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda have fueled the demand for herbal cosmetic products worldwide. Common herbal cosmetic ingredients include, plant extracts such as aloe-vera, neem, turmeric, etc. and various herbs like shikakai, sandalwood, etc. The market has witnessed rapid growth in skincare, haircare, and personal hygiene segments. Herbal cosmetics often fall in cosmeceutical category, which combines cosmetic and pharmaceutical benefits, enhancing beauty while providing physiological benefits like healing and conditioning. New technologies are being developed to separate and utilize the active compounds from herbs, creating novel and effective herbal products.
Archana Kaushik, Satyajit Sahoo*, Rashmi Rajeghorpade, Sapna Desai, Meshwa Patel (Wed,) studied this question.