Herbal Creams: An Overview

Semi solid dosage forms that are usually applied topically on skin are called creams. This study mainly focuses on the preparation and evaluation of herbal creams along with some of the common herbs utilized in these types of formulations. The herbal cream is basically water in oil type of emulsion. The natural ingredients chosen for preparation of herbal cream are Turmeric, Papaya, Aloe-Vera, Tulsi, Amla, Cucumber, Neem. The choice of these ingredients is based on their individual properties. The preparation of the cream is basically done by using the cream base i.e., liquid paraffin, beeswax, borax, methyl paraben. These formulations can be evaluated by various parameters like pH, viscosity, irritancy, spreadability, microbial growth, thermal stability, homogeneity, acid value, saponification value, accelerated stability studies, patch test, smear test, after feel, washability, physical properties, dye test, after feel, in vitro diffusion study, etc. Chemical based cosmetics are harmful to the skin and an increased awareness among consumers for herbal products triggered the demand for natural products and natural extracts in cosmetics preparations. The increased demand for the natural product has created new avenues in cosmeceutical market. The natural content in the botanicals does not cause any side effects on the human body; instead enrich the body with nutrients and other useful minerals. Key words: Cosmetics, herbal creams, semisolid dosage forms, turmeric, aloe vera.