Design and Development of Herbal Formulations for the Treatment of Topical Skin Disorders

Abstract

A large number of synthetic antimicrobial agents are available for topical as well as systemic use, however many limitations are associated with it. Even though preferred mode of application is topical, but long term administration may elicit systemic side effects. In addition, development of resistance is another major hurdle which keeps on demanding new drugs periodically. Unfortunately rate of mutations among these pathogens is more than pace of development of drug. This in turn makes the research and development a priority but costly affair. These concerns suggest the development of potent, economical, patient friendly and time tested treatment with reduced rate of development of resistance which tempted to undertake this project. newlineHerbal plants and their combination report therapeutic as well synergistic effect that has been recognized in medicine. So, taking into account this factor, three different preliminary formulations i.e. ointments, gels and creams were prepared by using plant extracts, to improve patient compliance, enhance antimicrobial spectrum and enhance aesthetic properties. The objective of this study was to formulate and evaluate topical polyherbal formulation for the delivery of the active constituents present in plants to improve skin diseases. The plant extracts of Ocimum sanctum (OS), Rubia cordifolia (RC), Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG) were utilized for the preparation. newlinePrepared three different Preliminary formulations i.e. ointments, gels and creams which are proved to be more compliant and effective and tested for various physicochemical parameters. The results when compared against prescribed range showed that cream is better over ointments and gels with respect to its property of spreadability, which is the net result of a combination of rheological contributions, structural and visco-elastic characteristics. newlineThe endorsement on the polyherbal cream as most effective formulation is an important outcome to validate appropriateness of the formulation prepared from ingredients of natural origin