ABSTRACT:
Background: Hand hygiene is a fundamental practice for preventing the transmission of infectious diseases. Commercially available chemical-based handwashes often contain synthetic preservatives and harsh surfactants that may cause skin irritation and ecological concerns. Herbal formulations offer a safer, biodegradable, and cost-effective alternative. Objective: The present study aimed to fabricate and evaluate a polyherbal handwash gel incorporating aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.), Bhringraj (Eclipta alba Hassk.), and Harad (Terminalia chebula Retz.) for their combined antimicrobial, antifungal, and skin-conditioning properties. Methods: Extracts of all three herbs were prepared by maceration and Soxhlet extraction. Six formulations (F1–F6) were prepared using carbopol 940 as the gelling agent, with varying concentrations of herbal extracts. The prepared formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, spreadability, foam height, foam stability, washing effect, antimicrobial activity, skin irritation (patch test), and stability studies as per ICH guidelines. Results: All formulations exhibited acceptable organoleptic characters, pH in the range of 5.8–6.8, adequate viscosity (3200–6800 cP), good spreadability, and satisfactory foam height and stability. Formulation F3 demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, with zones of inhibition of 22 mm, 19 mm, and 17 mm respectively. No skin irritation was observed in any test subject. Stability studies confirmed physical and chemical stability over three months at 40°C/75% RH. Conclusion: The polyherbal handwash formulation containing Tulsi, Bhringraj, and Harad is a safe, efficacious, and stable preparation with significant antimicrobial potential, making it a promising alternative to synthetic handwash products.