Pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigations of Royal hair dye henna available in the Libyan market

Background: Henna adulteration is getting rise, over the world, as the cosmetic desire increased. Hence, health problems are induced due to its adulteration with synthetic substances. This study aimed to perform pharmacognostic and phytochemicals analysis of Royal henna to determine its anatomical features. Method: For this purpose, Royal (different colors) and Lawsonia inermis leaves, a natural henna herb, were purchased from local market, identified and extraction was performed by maceration of dried materials in methanol. Phytochemical screening, microscopic, thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) and florescence analyses were executed. Results: Microscopic studies showed presence of small parts related to senna plant within the Royal red henna extract. The Royal brown revealed presence of natural henna plant coupled with a strange plant carrying dyes unrelated to the flora of henna. While, unknown black particles and fibrous were seen in Royal black henna extract. TLC analysis revealed presence of synthetic materials. All Royal dye showed presence of foreign substances. Phytochemical screening showed presence of different primary and secondary metabolites. Whereas, the florescence evaluation revealed different colors both in visible and ultra violet (254nm and 366nm). So identification and quantification studies for foreign substances are important and needed to avoid consumer health risks.