Optimizing Extraction And Enhancing Stability Of Flaxseed Oil: Toward Functional Herbal Haircare Formulations With Antimicrobial Properties
January 2026
in “
International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science
”
TLDR Flaxseed-olive oil formulations improve hair health and protect the scalp with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
This study explores the extraction and stabilization of flaxseed oil for use in herbal haircare formulations. Flaxseed oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and bioactive compounds, was extracted using Soxhlet and cold-press methods, with the latter showing better oxidative stability and antioxidant activity. Blending flaxseed oil with olive oil further improved stability and bioactive retention. The resulting formulations, including hair oil, serum, and mask, demonstrated strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Malassezia spp. The hair serum exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity (52.86%), while the hair mask and oil showed the strongest antimicrobial effects. These findings suggest that flaxseed-olive oil-based products are effective for scalp protection and hair health.