PATHIMUGAM OIL: A NOVEL APPROACH FOR PROMOTING HAIR GROWTH

Abstract

Pathimugam, also known as East Indian red wood, has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its healing benefits. This study explores whether oil extracted from the heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium can promote hair growth. The oil was prepared using a cold-press technique to retain its natural compounds and analyzed through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Two groups were studied: one applied the oil daily for 12 weeks, while the other received no treatment. Hair growth was tracked by measuring hair count, density, and length. The GC-MS analysis identified several bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins—known for supporting scalp and hair health. The treatment group showed clear improvement across all parameters. These results suggest Pathimugam oil holds promise as a natural hair growth enhancer. Further clinical studies are recommended to confirm its safety and long-term efficacy.