Comprehensive study on pongamia glabra vent. Seed oil: extraction, characterization, and antifungal activity assessment

Author: Inderjeet , Anil Sharma , Manmohan Sharma , Rajiv Kukkar

Abstract:
Dandruff remains a prevalent issue globally, impacting individuals across diverse demographics. Its manifestation, characterized by the shedding of scalp skin cells leading to visible flakes, presents in dry and oily forms, each with distinct attributes. While the prevalence peaks during puberty, various factors such as humidity, trauma, and stress exacerbate symptoms. Malassezia yeast overgrowth, thriving in sebum-rich areas, plays a pivotal role, with environmental triggers further complicating the condition. Addressing dandruff necessitates multifaceted approaches, including understanding its pathophysiology and exploring diverse treatment modalities. This study focuses on Pongamia glabra Vent. seed oil, commonly known as karanj oil, extracted via a comprehensive methodology involving hydrodistillation and cold expression techniques. Characterization of the oil revealed specific properties, including appearance, odor, taste, solubility, and specific gravity, essential for evaluating its quality and suitability for various applications. Additionally, screening for antifungal activity against Malassezia furfur demonstrated promising results, with karanj oil exhibiting significant efficacy, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative for combating fungal infections associated with dandruff.