Formulation and Evaluation of Topical Cream "Soymida Febrifuga Stem Bark Extract for Anti-Inflammatory Effect"

This research focuses on the development of a formulation, standardization of phytochemicals, and pharmacological assessment of a topical herbal cream with methanolic extract of Soymida febrifuga (Roxb.) stem bark. A. Juss. for controlling localized swelling. Soymida febrifuga, commonly referred to as 'Rohini' (Meliaceae), has notable medicinal properties but does not have a standardized topical delivery system. The bark's phytochemical analysis showed total flavonoid and phenolic levels of 0.0146% and 0.776%, respectively. Quantitative HPTLC detected lupeol (0.2416%) and beta-sitosterol (0.3735%) as major anti-inflammatory indicators. A cream base of oil-in-water (O/W) was created employing the stearic acid-triethanolamine saponification system. Six groups (F1–F6) were created with different extract concentrations. The optimized formulation (F4, 5% w/w) showed a skin-friendly pH of 6.18, optimal viscosity (9,800 cps), and outstanding spreadability. In vitro release experiments using a Franz diffusion cell indicated 76.4% release after 8 hours, adhering to Higuchi kinetics. The efficacy of the anti-inflammatory agent was confirmed using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, with F4 showing a 54.2% inhibition after 5 hours, notably exceeding the control and being similar to the standard indomethacin. Accelerated stability tests verified the formulation's consistency for 90 days. This research creates a practical, consistent, and efficient herbal topical treatment option for skin inflammatory disorders.