Formulation and evaluation of Herbal Face Cream

Gitanjali Jijabrao Patil*, Devesh Pravinkumar Bhavsar, Ravindra S. Sonawane

KES’s Late Shri P.C.B.College of D.Pharmacy & Late Prof.R.K.Kele College of Pharmacy

*Correspondence: gitanjalipatil222@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.71431/IJRPAS.2025.4614            

 INTRODUCTION

The demand for herbal cosmetics is increasing due to the availability of new ingredients, the financial benefits of developing successful products, and the emphasis on maintaining quality standards. Cosmetics are products applied to the body, and face creams are commonly used for their softening and cleansing effects. The Ayurvedic system of medicine is one of the most significant systems that utilizes herbal plants and extracts for the treatment and management of various disease conditions [1].

 The skin is the outermost tissue of the body and is the largest organ in terms of both weight and surface area. In an adult, it covers approximately 16,000 cm² and accounts for about 8% of total body weight. As illustrated in Figure 1, the skin has a complex structure made up of various components. These include cells, fibers, and other elements that are organized into multiple layers, giving the skin its multi-layered form. Within these layers, extensive networks of veins, capillaries, and nerves are present. Additionally, hair shafts protrude through the skin, and numerous fine hair furrows are scattered across its surface. The skin carries out a wide range of functions, driven by chemical and physical processes occurring within its components [2].

The skin is the Largest organ in the human body and cerebral critical function in protection regulation and sensation it acts as the body’s first line of defense against microorganism harmful and chemical radiation [3].

Aloe Vera:

Aloe Vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis, belongs to the family Liliaceae, which includes around 300 species. It is a cactus-like plant that thrives in hot, dry climates and is widely cultivated on a large scale. The mucilaginous tissue found in the center of the aloe Vera leaf is used to produce Aloe Vera gel, which is commonly used in cosmetics and some medicinal products. Notably, Aloe Vera gel does not contain Antraquinones, the compounds responsible for the strong laxative effects found in other aloe species. Total extract may Contain Antraquinones [4].

Aloe Vera contains approximately 75 potentially active constituents like.

Glycosides – Anthracene Derivatives:

Hydroxyanthraquinone derivatives (25–40%) include aloin (also known as barbaloin), which is a mixture of aloin A and B — the diastereoisomeric 10-C glucosides of aloe-emodin anthrone — along with 7-hydroxyaloin isomers. Indian aloes primarily contain aloinosides as major constituents, while aloin is present only in trace amounts [5].

Amla:

Amla, scientifically known as Emblica Officinalis, is commonly referred to as Indian gooseberry and belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is a rich source of Vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in slowing the aging process by acting as a scavenger of harmful free radicals. In addition, Amla contains essential amino acids such as glutamic acid, proline, and aspartic acid, along with significant amounts of protein and minerals [6,7].

Cucumber:

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), a member of the Cucurbitaceae family—alongside melon, watermelon, pumpkin, and zucchini—is widely consumed fresh in salads, fermented as pickles, or cooked as a vegetable. It is also commonly used for treating various skin problems, including sunburn and swelling under the eyes. Cucumber is believed to have refreshing, cooling, soothing, healing, emollient, and anti-itch properties that benefit irritated skin.

The nutritional profile of Cucumis sativus L. includes approximately 96.4% water, 0.4% protein, 0.1% fat, 2.8% carbohydrates, 0.3% minerals, 0.01% calcium, 0.03% phosphorus, 1.5 mg of iron per 100 g, and 30 IU of vitamin B per 100 g. It also contains ascorbic acid and enzymes such as crepsin, proteolytic enzymes, oxidase, and the dehydrogenases succinic and malic acid. Several bioactive compounds have been isolated from cucumber, including cucurbitacins, cucumegastigmanes I and II, cucumerin A and B, vitexin, orientin, isoscoparin 2″-O-(6‴-(E)-p-coumaroyl) glucoside, and apigenin 7-O-(6″-O-p-coumaroyl) glucoside [8].                                          

Therapeutic Benefits:

·         Herbal creams are appealing due to their diverse therapeutic benefits for the skin.

·         They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients that help fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support skin repair and regeneration.

·         Various botanical extracts found in these creams possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing qualities, making them effective for treating a variety of skincare issues, including dryness, irritation, acne, and signs of aging [9].

Cosmetological important of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used since ancient times for healing infections and burns. With advancements in cosmetology, it has also been proven to be a vital ingredient in many cosmetic products.

Aloe Vera contains nearly 20 amino acids, along with essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium in adequate amounts, as well as enzymes and vitamins.

 Aloe Vera is considered a miracle beauty herb due to its content of polysaccharides, nitrogen, and other beneficial components.

Some of its most important applications in the field of cosmetology are briefly explained below.

1.      Itching and Blisters

Aloe vera helps relieve itching and also aids in treating blisters. It contains vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and C, which provide a soothing and pleasant sensation to the skin [10,11].

2.      Skin Aging

Aloe vera stimulates the production of both elastin and collagen. These proteins play a vital role in preventing skin aging [12,13].

3.      Acne

Aloe vera helps reduce acne scars by acting as an immune booster and anti-inflammatory agent. Beauty products containing Aloe vera may lessen the severity of acne. Additionally, it contains chemical components that help protect the skin and prevent the onset of acne [14,15].

4.      Freshness

“Aloe vera imparts a sensation of freshness. It helps improve blood circulation, which facilitates easier oxygen exchange among cells, thereby nourishing them [16].

5.      Sun burn

Aloe vera is highly effective in reducing the pain caused by sunburn. To achieve this, it is applied directly to the skin. You can use the fresh gel extracted from the plant or after-sun creams that contain aloe Vera [17].

6.      Moisturizing agent

 Aloe vera is also commonly used to soften and moisturize the skin. There are numerous products available on the market that contain Aloe vera and can be applied after showering to keep the skin feeling super soft. Whether in the form of gel, cream, or lotion, Aloe vera creates a soothing layer on the face that helps protect the skin from dust and other environmental elements that may be harmful [18,19].

7.      Pigmentation

Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of human skin. Hyperpigmentation occurs when excessive amounts of melanin are produced, often as a result of prolonged exposure to sunlight. When the skin is exposed to the sun’s UV rays, specialized cells called melanocytes are triggered to produce more melanin. This overproduction leads to the appearance of dark patches on the skin. Aloe vera is known for its ability to reduce pigmentation and fade dark spots on the face [20,21].

8.      Skin eruptions

Aloe vera creams are effective for treating skin eruptions. Aloe vera gel has been proven to be one of the best remedies for burns and wounds. Its benefits come from its ability to promote cellular regeneration, as well as its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which make it highly useful in managing skin eruptions [22,23].

Cosmetological important of Amla

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is widely recognized for its various cosmeceutical applications. Packed with antioxidants, it helps shield the skin from free radical damage. Its anti-aging qualities make it a common ingredient in skincare formulations, as it helps diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Amla also has natural brightening properties that promote an even skin tone and a glowing complexion. Furthermore, it supports hair health by strengthening hair follicles and reducing hair loss. Overall, Amla is a powerful and versatile

 that provides numerous benefits for both skin and hair care.

You might be wondering how gooseberry (Amla) can benefit your skin. Well, it can be consumed with honey or applied directly to the skin to enjoy its many advantages. If you find it difficult to eat this sour fruit, try making juice out of it-this can be a great alternative and is very beneficial for your skin [24].

1.      Anti-ageing Properties:

Drinking gooseberry juice regularly can help slow down the ageing process. As we grow older, most of us desire to maintain a youthful appearance-and who doesn't want to look young? Simply prepare some Amla juice, add a little honey, and drink it. This juice is rich in antioxidants that improve skin health and fight ageing cells [24].

Amla is also a great source of Vitamin C, which promotes glowing skin. Consistent consumption of Amla juice can help prevent premature ageing, fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles

2.      Treats Acne:

You can prepare an Amla paste and apply it directly to the affected areas of your face. Leave it on for no more than 15 minutes to dry. This helps in managing pimples, reducing fine lines, and minimizing acne scars. Amla acts as a natural blood purifier, which helps prevent pimples and the after-effects of acne. As a result, regular use of Amla juice can give you clear and flawless skin [24].

3.      Good Skin Tone:

High levels of collagen in the skin help maintain firmness and give it a soft, smooth appearance. Regular consumption of Amla juice boosts Vitamin C levels, which in turn enhances collagen production in the skin. This results in a softer, more youthful-looking complexion [24].

4.      Treats Skin Pigmentation:

Applying or drinking Amla juice is known to cleanse the skin and reduce pigmentation. Simply apply some Amla juice to your face, and once it dries, gently wipe it off using a small piece of cotton. Be sure to keep your eyes closed while doing this. When done regularly, this routine can help lighten dark marks and reduce pigmentation [24].

5.      Removes Dead Skin Cells:

Amla juice is known to rejuvenate the skin and add a natural brightness that makes your complexion glow. How much more confident would you feel with skin that looks vibrant and radiant? It gives your self-confidence a boost. Amla juice also works as an excellent cleanser-whether applied directly or consumed. It helps remove dead skin cells and supports anti-ageing by promoting fresher, healthier skin [24].

Cosmetological important of cucumber

Cucumber peels should not be discarded, as they offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in fiber and contain essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and silica. Silica plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of muscles, bones, and tendons. Additionally, cucumber peels help hydrate the skin, enhance complexion, and improve vision. They are also beneficial in treating eye disorders, vitamin A and C deficiencies, constipation, and various bone and muscle conditions.

1.      Benefits for skin:

Cucumber peels are beneficial for the skin as they help revitalize it from within. Regular use of cucumber-based face packs or grated cucumber can effectively reduce signs of aging. They are also helpful in treating dark circles, open pores, blemishes, and other skin concerns.

2.      Cools You Off:

Cucumber is known for its cooling properties, which help soothe and refresh you in the scorching heat. To beat the heat, simply add some cucumber peels to water in an infuser — and you’re all set to stay cool and refreshed [25].

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Plant material

 "The proposed study involves Aloe vera, Amla, and cucumber peel, which were collected from the local area."

Cream formulation

Beeswax and propylene glycol were taken in the first beaker and heated on a water bath to ensure uniform mixing. After a few minutes, the oil phase was formed. In a second beaker, Aloe vera extract, Amla extract, cucumber peel extract, distilled water, white soft paraffin, glycerine, zinc oxide, and sodium benzoate were combined. This mixture was also heated on a water bath to form the aqueous phase. The oil phase was then added to the aqueous phase with continuous stirring until a semisolid mass was formed.”

Table 1: Formula of cream formulation

EVALUATION OF CREAM:

Evaluation of herbal cream was following.

Physical Evaluation:

Formulated herbal creams was further Evaluated by using the following physical parameter physical parameter colour, odour, consistency, and state of the formulation [26].

a) Colour: The colour of the cream was observed by visual examination. The result show in table 2.

b) Odour: The odour of cream was found to be aromatic.

c) State: The state was cream was examined visually. The cream was solid in state result

was shows in table 2.

d) Consistency: The formulation was examined by rubbing cream on hand manually. The cream having smooth consistency.

e) pH: pH of prepared herbal cream was measured by using digital pH meter. The solution of cream was prepared by using 100 ml of Distilled water and set aside 2h. pH was determined in three times for solution and the average value was calculated. Results were shown in table 2.

f) Spredability: spread ability of formulated cream was measured by placing sample in

between two slides then compressed to uniform thickness by placing a definite weight for defined time. The specified time required to separate the two slides was measured as Spredability. Lesser the time taken for separation of two slides results showed better Spredability. Spredability was calculated by the following formula [27] Result were shows in table 2.

 Weight tide to upper slide (W) x Length of glass slide (L) Spredability(S) = Time taken to separate slide (T)

g) Wash ability: formulation was applied on the skin and then ease extends of washing with water was checked. Results were shown in table 2.

h) Non- irritancy test: Herbal cream formulation was evaluated for the non-irritancy test. Preparation shown no redness and irritancy. Observation of the state was done for 24 h 28.

Table 2: Results of poly herbal cream

RESULT:

The present research focused on the formulation and evaluation of a polyherbal cream. The evaluation parameters included physical characteristics, pH, Spredability, Washabality, non-irritancy test, viscosity, and phase separation of the polyherbal pain-relieving cream. These parameters were assessed and presented under the results section.

CONCLUSION:

The formulation and evaluation of the poly-herbal cream containing Aloe Vera, Amla, and cucumber peel extracts demonstrate its promising potential as an effective and safe skincare product. Each of the plant ingredients contributes unique therapeutic benefits: Aloe Vera for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, Amla for its antioxidant-rich anti-aging and skin-brightening effects, and cucumber peel for its hydrating and cooling qualities. The successful formulation of the cream, which exhibited a smooth consistency, optimal pH, and non-irritant properties, highlights its suitability for various skin concerns, such as dryness, acne, and pigmentation. The cream’s good Spredability and ease of Washabality further enhance its appeal as a consumer-friendly cosmetic product. Given the positive evaluation results, this poly-herbal cream holds significant potential for broader use in skincare, with future studies focusing on its long-term stability, active ingredient concentration, and efficacy in clinical trials.

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