Design and Optimization of 'Green Guard' Biodegradable Face Masks Incorporating Herbal Extracts for Antimicrobial Properties

Public health is seriously threatened by airborne infections, which are brought on by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Although surgical masks are essential for halting airborne transmission, traditional masks don't have any inherent antibacterial qualities. In order to improve antibacterial activity, this work investigates the creation of herbal-coated surgical masks that integrate nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), mint (Mentha spp.), and acacia catechu into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix. Through maceration extraction, the herbal extracts—which were abundant in bioactive substances including menthol, catechin, and carvacrol—were combined to create PVA, which was subsequently sprayed onto conventional surgical masks. In comparison to non-coated masks, the coated masks' antimicrobial efficacy was assessed using nutritional agar media, which showed a notable decrease in bacteria growth. Even antimicrobial coverage was ensured by a coating uniformity test that verified consistent deposition. The findings demonstrate how these herbal-coated masks can be used as an environmentally benign, biodegradable substitute for traditional antimicrobial coatings, thereby lowering medical waste and minimizing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This innovative approach could enhance infection control in healthcare settings and daily public use, particularly against airborne diseases like COVID-19, influenza, and tuberculosis. Further research is recommended to optimize long-term stability, breathability, and scalability for widespread implementation.