Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Gel Containing Fruits Extract of Terminalia Chebula and Phyllanthus Emblica for Treatment of Acne

Acne vulgaris is a common, chronic inflammatory condition that affects the pilosebaceous units. Conventional treatments often pose side effects and resistance issues, prompting interest in safer, plant-based alternatives. To develop and evaluate a polyherbal anti-acne gel incorporating hydroalcoholic extracts of Terminalia chebula and Phyllanthus emblica, targeting the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory pathways associated with acne. Hydroalcoholic extracts of the selected plants were prepared and subjected to phytochemical screening and quantification of total phenolic and flavonoid contents. A series of six gel formulations with varying Carbopol 940 concentrations were prepared and evaluated for pH, viscosity, spreadability, extrudability, drug content, and antimicrobial activity against Propionibacterium acnes. The optimized formulation (PHG3) exhibited ideal physicochemical properties including suitable pH (6.8), high drug content (92.5%), good spreadability and viscosity, and the highest antimicrobial activity with a 22 mm inhibition zone against P. acnes. The gel remained stable under accelerated storage conditions. The formulated polyherbal gel demonstrated significant potential as a natural, effective, and stable alternative for acne treatment, offering both therapeutic efficacy and favourable topical characteristics.