Tanaka and Cycling Test of Water Pumpkin Fruit Extract as Natural Hair Tonic Spray

This study evaluated the effectiveness and stability of a natural hair tonic spray made from water pumpkin fruit extract, using three formulations with concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. The Tanaka hair growth test on rabbits over 21 days showed that the 15% formulation (F3) had the highest hair growth activity, with an average length of 2.4 cm, comparable to the positive control at 2.7 cm. Stability was confirmed through a 28-day cycling test. The hair growth effect is linked to flavonoids and saponins, which enhance microcirculation and stimulate keratinocyte proliferation. The study suggests water pumpkin extract as a sustainable alternative to synthetic hair growth agents, recommending further research on formulation stability and follicular activation mechanisms.