Modification of a Unani pharmacopoeial formulation Zimad-e-Jarbin to Lotion form and evaluation of Physicopharmaceutical parameters

Zimad-e-Jarb, a traditional Unani pharmacopoeial formulation used topically to treat scabies (Jarb), was redesigned into a lotion form to improve patient compliance and address issues like odor, application difficulty, and staining. The lotion was prepared using the ingredients of Zimad-e-Jarb (sulfur, copper sulfate, Indian kamala, and litharge) and standard lotion excipients. The physico-pharmaceutical properties of the lotion were evaluated, including organoleptic characteristics, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spreadability, washability, and irritancy. The lotion exhibited desirable characteristics: it was a smooth, olive-green, aromatic liquid with no foreign particles or clogs, a pH within the range of normal skin (5.23±0.03 for 1% solution and 5.14±0.01 for 10% solution), a viscosity of 368.4±1.8 cps, and a spreadability of 7.94±0.20 g.cm/s. The lotion was easily washable and showed no signs of irritancy or sensitization in human patch tests. These results suggest that the lotion form of Zimad-e-Jarb is a promising alternative to the traditional paste, offering improved convenience, compatibility, and patient compliance while maintaining acceptable physico-pharmaceutical properties. This study establishes standard quality control parameters for the lotion formulation and supports its potential use in treating scabies.