FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL ANTI-ACNE GEL CONTAINING NEEM, TULSI, ALOE VERA AND TEA TREE OIL

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological disorders affecting adolescents and young adults worldwide. The condition is characterized by inflammation of pilosebaceous units resulting from increased sebum production, microbial colonization, follicular hyperkeratinization, and inflammatory responses. Conventional anti-acne treatments such as antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids are widely used but often produce undesirable side effects including skin irritation, dryness, and development of microbial resistance. Therefore, there is growing interest in the development of herbal formulations that provide effective treatment with minimal adverse effects. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal anti-acne gel containing natural ingredients such as neem (Azadirachta indica), tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), and tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia). These plant-based ingredients are known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing properties. The herbal gel was prepared using Carbopol 940 as a gelling agent, glycerine as a humectant, methyl paraben as a preservative, triethanolamine as a pH adjusting agent, and distilled water as the vehicle. The prepared formulation was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters including appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, and stability. The gel showed good physical appearance, smooth texture, and green coloration due to the presence of herbal extracts. The pH of the formulation was found to be 6.5, which is within the acceptable range for topical skin preparations. The gel demonstrated good spreadability and suitable viscosity for topical application. The results indicate that the formulated herbal anti-acne gel is stable, aesthetically acceptable, and potentially effective in the management of acne. The combination of herbal ingredients provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce acne lesions while minimizing side effects associated with synthetic drugs.