Preparation of Emulgel and Antimicrobial Activity of Polyherbal Formulation

Abstract

This research focuses on the formulation, evaluation, and antimicrobial assessment of a polyherbal emulgel incorporating Eucalyptus and Lemongrass essential oils. Herbal medicines have long been celebrated for their therapeutic properties, particularly their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. However, their topical delivery often faces challenges related to stability, penetration, and patient compliance. Emulgels, which combine the advantages of emulsions and gels, offer a promising solution by improving drug solubility, skin absorption, and controlled release. In this study, essential oils were extracted and subjected to phytochemical screening, followed by formulation of an emulgel using Carbopol 934 as the gelling agent and emulsifiers such as Span 80 and Tween 80. The prepared formulation was evaluated for physicochemical parameters (pH, viscosity, spreadability, extrudability), stability over three months, and antimicrobial efficacy against common skin pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella abony, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger using the agar well diffusion method. Results showed the emulgel had stable physicochemical properties and exhibited significant antimicrobial activity comparable to standard antibiotics and antifungal agents, with the strongest effects observed against Gram-positive bacteria and fungal strains. This work underscores the potential of polyherbal emulgels as natural, effective alternatives to synthetic antimicrobial products, paving the way for further clinical development