FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF A POLYHERBAL MINT TOOTHPASTE FOR ORAL HYGIENE

Herbal mint toothpaste is a natural oral hygiene preparation developed by incorporating medicinal herbs and mint-derived ingredients into a suitable toothpaste base, aimed at maintaining oral cleanliness and preventing dental diseases. Conventional toothpastes often contain synthetic detergents, preservatives, and artificial additives that may cause oral irritation, sensitivity, and mucosal damage upon prolonged use, prompting increased interest in safer, biocompatible, and eco-friendly herbal alternatives. The present formulation utilizes peppermint and spearmint oils for their refreshing flavour, cooling effect, and mild antimicrobial activity, along with neem for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, clove for its analgesic and antiseptic action attributed to eugenol, and tulsi for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits supporting gum health. The toothpaste base was formulated using calcium carbonate as an abrasive, glycerine and sorbitol as humectants, along with appropriate binders, preservatives, and sweetening agents to achieve desirable texture, consistency, and palatability. The preparation involved systematic blending of humectants, binders, and abrasives, followed by careful incorporation of herbal extracts and mint oils to retain their therapeutic and aromatic properties. The formulated toothpaste was evaluated for physicochemical parameters including colour, Odor, taste, pH, viscosity, spreadability, foamability, homogeneity. Results indicated that the herbal mint toothpaste effectively reduces plaque accumulation, controls bad breath, strengthens gums, and provides protection against microbial infections, while demonstrating good stability and consumer acceptability. Being derived from natural sources, the formulation offers a non-toxic, economical, and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical-based toothpaste, supporting its potential application in routine oral healthcare.