Formulation and Characterization of Polyherbal Cream for Wound Healing and Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract

The current study used natural herbal elements like Tridax procumbens, neem (Azadirachta indica), turmeric (Curcuma longa), and turpentine oil to create and assess a polyherbal cream with antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Due to their medicinal efficacy, safety, affordability, and low side effects as compared to synthetic formulations, herbal medications are frequently used. The chosen herbs are widely recognized for their wound-healing, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities. The plant materials were gathered, verified, dried, and extracted using appropriate extraction techniques such as maceration and Soxhlet extraction.

Three distinct concentrations of herbal extracts were combined with excipients such as glycerine, cocoa butter, liquid paraffin, borax, methyl paraben, and rose water to create three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) of polyherbal cream. Numerous physicochemical characteristics, including color, odor, texture, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, washability, phase separation, irritancy, and thermal stability, were assessed for the prepared creams. All of the formulations’ pH values were found to be within the permitted range for skin application, indicating good skin compatibility. Because of the herbal ingredients’ synergistic action, the formulations’ antibacterial activity showed efficient suppression of microorganisms that infect wounds. Improved tissue regeneration, less inflammation, and quicker epithelialization were seen in the wound healing study.

Out of all the formulations, F2 demonstrated greater antibacterial and wound healing activity as well as improved stability, spreadability, and uniformity. The irritancy investigation found no evidence of skin irritation or allergic responses, indicating that the formulation is safe for topical use.