Formulation and Evaluation of multipurpose herbal-based cream

Liquid paraffin, beeswax, methyl paraben, borax, distilled water, Ashwagandha extract and Neem extracts were used to make the cream base. The slab technique or extemporaneous approach was used to produce the cream to thoroughly combine all ingredients and give it a smooth texture by geometrically combining them. The present study focuses on the evaluation of a topical herbal cream formulation through a series of physicochemical and biological tests. The formulation was subjected to washability, irritancy, phase separation, greasiness, pH, physical characteristics, antimicrobial activity, and compatibility studies to ensure its stability, safety, and efficacy. The cream exhibited good washability and no signs of irritation after 24 hours of dermal application. It remained stable without any phase separation when stored at room temperature, and it showed a non-greasy texture upon application. The pH of the cream was found to be within the acceptable dermal range. Physical evaluation confirmed a consistent color, pleasant odor, and smooth texture. The antimicrobial study demonstrated significant activity, as indicated by the presence of a clear zone of inhibition in agar diffusion testing. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used to assess the compatibility of the herbal active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), with the IR spectra of the formulation showing characteristic peaks consistent with those of individual components, confirming their chemical compatibility. Overall, the results indicate that the herbal cream formulation is stable, non-irritant and exhibits promising antimicrobial potential, making it suitable for topical application.