Formulation , development and evaluation of a novel polyherbal anti-acnegel

Author

Arpita Pohokar, Abhinav Bais


Abstract

 Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit involving follicular hyperkeratinisation, sebum production, Cutibacterium acnes-associated processes and inflammation[ 1–3]. Interest in plant-based topical products is growing, but laboratory activity must not be confused with clinical efficacy [2,4]. This review critically examines the evidence relevant to neem (Azadirachta indica), turmeric (Curcuma longa), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) and tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) as proposed components of a polyherbal anti-acne gel. Evidence for neem and tulsi is mainly review-level, in vitro or formulation-level; turmeric has a broader skin-health literature but limited acne-specific clinical data; and aloe vera has limited clinical support as an adjunct to tretinoin, not as a stand-alone treatment [5,6]. Published herbal gel studies mostly report physicochemical properties, while extract standardisation, microbiological methods and tolerability testing are often insufficiently documented[ 7–10]. No verified study has demonstrated synergy among the four plants, so the combination is best treated as a research hypothesis. We outline formulation, evaluation and stability requirements and the research needed before therapeutic claims can be made.


Keywords

Acne Vulgaris, Polyherbal Formulation, Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa, Aloe Vera, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Topical Gel, Evidence Appraisal



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References


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