Preparing and evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of a herbal gel

Abstract

Although inflammation is a biological response to injury or infection, its chronic manifestation can contribute to arthritis and skin disorders. Long-term use of conventional treatments, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), frequently comes with the possibility of side effects. This research project aimed to develop a natural alternative by formulating and evaluating a polyherbal gel with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Aqueous extracts of Curcuma aromatica, Myristica fragrans, Syzygium aromaticum, Citrus limon, and Achyranthes aspera were included in the formulation because of their well-established therapeutic properties. The gelling agent was carbopol 934, and the organoleptic, physicochemical, phytochemical, and antimicrobial parameters of the finished product were evaluated. The presence of glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, and glycosides was confirmed by phytochemical analysis. The gel was suitable for topical application because it had excellent spreadability, pH stability (6.5-7.0), and viscosity. The carrageenan-induced paw edema model was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity in Wistar rats. Comparable to the 80% reduction achieved by the standard diclofenac sodium gel, the herbal gel showed a paw thickness reduction of 75%. Effective inhibition zones against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans were discovered by antimicrobial tests. Additionally, studies on skin irritation demonstrated that the formulation is safe and does not cause irritation. In conclusion, the formulated polyherbal gel is a natural, safe, and effective topical treatment for managing microbial infections and inflammation. Its promising therapeutic potential encourages additional research, including clinical trials, to demonstrate its suitability for human inflammatory skin conditions.