FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL SKIN LOTION CONTAINING MILLINGTONIA HORTENSIS EXTRACT: PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ANTIBACTERIAL ASSESSMENT

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal skin lotion incorporating Millingtonia hortensis (Indian Cork Tree) extracts prepared using aqueous and ethanolic extraction methods. The flowers were collected during peak blooming season and subjected to maceration (aqueous extract) and Soxhlet extraction (ethanolic extract). These extracts were incorporated into an oil-in-water lotion using beeswax, carbopol 934, stearic acid, liquid paraffin, avocado oil, vitamin E, borax, citric acid, parabens, and rose water.

The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity. The aqueous extract herbal lotion (AEH) showed better spreadability (8.5 cm) and higher antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20 mm zone of inhibition) compared to the ethanolic extract herbal lotion (EEH), which showed 7.9 cm spreadability and 15 mm inhibition zone. Both formulations were smooth, homogenous, non-irritant, and easily washable; however, their pH values were above normal skin range (5.5–6.5), indicating the need for optimization.

The study confirms that M. hortensis contains bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins that contribute to antimicrobial and skin-beneficial properties. The formulated herbal lotion demonstrates potential as a safe, eco-friendly, and effective topical formulation.