Formulation And Evaluation of Topical Microemulsion of Smilax China

Developing a novel topical Smilax China microemulsion drug delivery system was the aim of the project. In order to identify the essential components that will be used in the formulation and to ascertain the drug's solubility with different excipients, dried rhizomes from methanolic extraction of Smilax China in order to create the best solvent system for the new formulation. Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease characterized by hyperproliferation and aberrant differentiation of keratinocytes. The current therapeutic approaches include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and systemic immunosuppressants, which often lead to adverse effects and limited long-term efficacy. There is increasing interest in the use of herbal-based therapeutics that offer efficacy with fewer side effects. Smilax China, a medicinal plant traditionally used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties, making it a potential candidate for the management of psoriasis. However, its poor solubility and low skin permeability pose formulation challenges. Microemulsion-based drug delivery systems have emerged as effective carriers for enhancing solubility, penetration, and bioavailability of herbal extracts. This review focuses on the formulation strategies and evaluation techniques of a topical microemulsion incorporating Smilax China extract for treating psoriasis. Emphasis is given to the therapeutic potential of the plant, the advantages of microemulsion systems, and the physicochemical and biological evaluation of the formulations. The formulation is positioned as a promising green and effective herbal dermatological therapy.