Development and assessment of a natural cold cream enriched with extract of Bougainvillea spectabilis, Ocimum sanctum, Aloe barbadensis and Rose indica

Abstract

The increasing preference for herbal cosmetics has accentuated the significance of plant-derived formulations as safer alternatives to synthetic skincare products. This study focuses on the development of a polyherbal cold cream incorporating Bougainvillea spectabilis, Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Rosa indica (Rose), and Aloe barbadensis, each contributing distinct dermatological properties. Special attention was given to Bougainvillea spectabilis, a relatively unexplored plant with promising cosmetic potential. Extraction techniques were optimized for each plant: aqueous maceration, ethanolic extraction, oil infusion, and gel isolation, respectively. The prepared formulation was evaluated for physicochemical parameters and biological activities. The polyherbal cream exhibited approximately 60% melanin inhibition, markedly outperforming a commercial cream (15%), indicating potential tyrosinase inhibition. The formulation also showed strong antioxidant activity, stable pH, emulsion stability, non-irritant behavior, and a smooth, non-greasy texture. These findings highlight the synergistic benefits of polyherbal formulations and advocate for the inclusion of Bougainvillea spectabilis in natural cosmetic applications.