Development and Clinical Evaluation of an Ayurvedic Herbal Scar Removal Cream Using the Manchester Scar Scale (MSS)

Scar formation is a phase of the natural phenomenon of the wound healing process. It can cause a significant influence on the appearance of an individual. The scar appearance can vary depending on age, sex, genetics, size of the wound, and location. There are many cosmetic treatments/ surgeries and products intended to remove scars. This study was designed to develop a cream with a selected formula from traditional medicine and to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing scar marks. Exclusion criteria were keloids, and hypertrophic scars while stretch marks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), acne scars, and contracture scars were included. The cream was developed with selected ingredients in standard quantities. The aqueous phase contained the decoction of Velmadata (Rubia cordifolia), dry turmeric (Curcuma longa), Venivelgeta (Coscinium fenestratum) mixed with purified Manoseela (Arsenic disulfide/Realgar). The oil phase contained Ayurvedic herbal oil: Pinda oil and ghee. Bee Wax, Emulsifying wax dissolved with purified Lakada (Shellac), potassium sorbate as a preservative, and essential oil as fragrances were used. 60 individuals with scars were selected within the inclusion criteria. They were divided into two groups. Group A was advised to use the provided cream twice a day for three months while Group B was to use a chemical base product from the market. Manchester Scar Scale (MSS) was used to assess the overall appearance of the scar recovery. Data was analyzed with SPSS and the repeated measured t- test revealed a significant difference between the before and after scores. The null hypothesis was rejected (p=0.001 < 0.05). Independent sample t-test indicated the significant difference between the mean(M) and standard deviations (SD) values of the A and B groups. All the results directed to the conclusion that the developed herbal cream for scar removal is effective in subsiding the scar marks and improving the overall appearance of the scar site improving it to normal skin appearance. Further studies can be suggested with larger samples and laboratory investigations.