Development And Evaluation Of Herbal Hand Sanitizer Gel Containing Aloe Vera And Essential Oils

Arati Chandane , Akanksha Deshmukh, Akshita Mathe, Ankita Solanki,  Ankita Bharad, Dr. R. H. Kale,

doi:10.5281/zenodo.19871035

Research Paper | Open Access
Volume 04 | Issue 04 | Article Id IJPS/260404741

Development And Evaluation Of Herbal Hand Sanitizer Gel Containing Aloe Vera And Essential Oils
Arati Chandane * Akanksha Deshmukh Akshita Mathe Ankita Solanki Ankita Bharad Dr. R. H. Kale
Paramhansa Ramkrishna Maunibaba Shikshan Sanstha's Anuradha College of Pharmacy, Anuradha Nagar, Sakegaon Road, Chikhli, Buldhana – 443201

Abstract

Hand hygiene is a crucial measure to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal hand sanitizer using Aloe vera gel, jasmine oil, lavender oil, and Carbopol as a gelling agent. Ethanol was used as the primary antiseptic agent. The prepared formulation was evaluated for physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, antimicrobial activity, and stability. The results indicated that the herbal sanitizer exhibited good antimicrobial activity, acceptable physicochemical properties, and skin-friendly characteristics without causing irritation. This formulation can be considered a safe and effective alternative to synthetic hand sanitizers..

Keywords

Herbal Hand Sanitizer, Aloe vera, Lavender Oil, Jasmine Oil, Carbopol, Antimicrobial Activity, Gel Formulation, Skin-Friendly, Natural Products, Hand Hygiene

Introduction

Hand hygiene is one of the most essential and effective practices for preventing the transmission of infectious diseases. Human hands act as a primary carrier for a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These pathogens can easily spread through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, and person-to-person interaction. Proper hand hygiene significantly reduces the risk of infections, especially in healthcare settings as well as in daily life.Traditionally, hand washing with soap and water has been the standard method for maintaining hand hygiene. However, in many situations, access to clean water and soap is limited, making hand sanitizers a convenient and effective alternative. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, particularly those containing ethanol or isopropyl alcohol in concentrations ranging from 60–80%, are widely used due to their rapid antimicrobial action. These sanitizers work by denaturing proteins and disrupting microbial cell membranes, leading to the destruction of harmful microorganisms.[1]

Despite their effectiveness, frequent use of conventional alcohol-based sanitizers has been associated with certain drawbacks. Continuous exposure to high concentrations of alcohol can lead to skin dryness, irritation, and disruption of the natural skin barrier. This has increased the demand for safer and more skin-friendly alternatives that provide antimicrobial protection without causing adverse effects.In recent years, there has been growing interest in herbal and natural products due to their safety, biocompatibility, and reduced side effects. Herbal formulations utilize plant-based ingredients that possess inherent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. Such formulations not only ensure effective microbial control but also help in maintaining skin health.[2]

Aloe vera is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties and is extensively used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations.[18] It contains bioactive compounds such as vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its moisturizing, soothing, and wound-healing effects. In hand sanitizer formulations, Aloe vera acts as a natural humectant and skin conditioner, reducing the drying effect of alcohol.Essential oils are another important component of herbal formulations due to their antimicrobial and aromatic properties. Jasmine oil is known for its pleasant fragrance and mild antimicrobial activity, making it suitable as a natural fragrance agent. Lavender oil possesses strong antimicrobial, antifungal, and calming properties. It also helps in reducing skin irritation and enhances the overall acceptability of the product.[3]

To improve the consistency and usability of the sanitizer, a gelling agent is required. Carbopol is a widely used polymer in pharmaceutical formulations due to its excellent thickening, stabilizing, and suspending properties. It helps in converting liquid sanitizer into gel form, which ensures better application, longer contact time, and reduced spillage.In the present study, an attempt has been made to formulate a herbal hand sanitizer by combining the antimicrobial efficacy of ethanol with the beneficial properties of Aloe vera and essential oils like jasmine and lavender. The use of Carbopol as a gelling agent provides an appropriate consistency for ease of application. The formulated product aims to achieve effective antimicrobial activity while maintaining skin hydration and minimizing irritation.[5]

Furthermore, the evaluation of the prepared formulation involves assessing various physicochemical parameters such as pH, viscosity, spreadability, and stability, along with antimicrobial activity. These evaluations are crucial to ensure the quality, safety, and effectiveness of the final product.Thus, the development of a herbal hand sanitizer represents a promising approach toward achieving effective hand hygiene with improved skin compatibility and user acceptability.[6]

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table no 1: formulation table of Herbal Hand Sanitizer

Sr. No	Ingredient	Quantity	Function
1	Ethanol	70 ml	Antiseptic agent
2	Aloe vera gel	30 g	Moisturizer
3	Carbopol	0.5–1 g	Gelling agent
4	Glycerin	2–3 ml	Humectant
5	Jasmine oil	2–3 drops	Fragrance
6	Lavender oil	2–3 drops	Antimicrobial agent
7	Distilled water	q.s. (100 ml)	Solvent

METHOD OF PREPARATION [7-10]

1. Carbopol was dispersed in distilled water and allowed to hydrate.

2. Aloe vera gel was added and mixed thoroughly.

3. Ethanol was slowly added with continuous stirring.

4. Glycerin was added to improve moisture retention.

5. Jasmine oil and lavender oil were incorporated for fragrance and antimicrobial activity.

6. The mixture was stirred until a uniform gel was formed.

7. The final product was stored in a clean container.

Figure A: Prepared Aloe vera gel used as a natural moisturizing base in the formulation of herbal hand sanitizer.

Figure B: Individual ingredients including ethanol, Aloe vera gel, Carbopol, glycerin, jasmine oil, lavender oil, and distilled water used for the formulation.

Figure C: Final herbal hand sanitizer gel obtained after thorough mixing of all ingredients showing uniform consistency.

EVALUATION PARAMETERS

1. Physical Appearance (Organoleptic Properties)

The formulated herbal hand sanitizer gel was visually examined for its organoleptic characteristics such as color, odor, and texture. The formulation exhibited a transparent to light green appearance with a pleasant aromatic odor due to essential oils and a smooth, uniform gel consistency without any lumps or phase separation. These properties are important for patient acceptability and product quality.[11]

2. pH Determination

The pH of the prepared formulation was measured using a calibrated digital pH meter. Approximately 1 g of the gel was dispersed in distilled water and the electrode was immersed to record the pH. The measurements were carried out in triplicate, and the average value was calculated. The obtained pH was found within the acceptable skin-friendly range of 5.5 to 7, ensuring minimal risk of skin irritation.[12]

3. Viscosity

The viscosity of the herbal hand sanitizer gel was determined using a suitable viscometer at room temperature. The sample was placed in the viscometer chamber, and readings were recorded after stabilization. The viscosity of the formulation was found to be appropriate, indicating good consistency and ease of application. Proper viscosity ensures that the gel remains on the hands for sufficient time to exhibit antimicrobial action.[13]

4. Spreadability

Spreadability was evaluated using the glass slide method. A small quantity of gel was placed between two glass slides, and a specified weight was applied to spread the formulation uniformly. The diameter of the spread gel was measured. The formulation showed good spreadability, indicating ease of application and uniform distribution on the skin surface[14]

5. Antimicrobial Activity

The antimicrobial activity of the prepared herbal hand sanitizer was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against common microorganisms. The formulation demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, which may be attributed to the presence of ethanol along with natural components like Lavender oil and Jasmine oil. This confirms the effectiveness of the formulation in reducing microbial load.[15]

6. Skin Irritation Test

The skin irritation test was performed by applying a small amount of the formulation on the skin (typically on the forearm) and observing for any signs of redness, itching, or irritation over a specific period. The results indicated that the formulation was non-irritant and safe for topical application, likely due to the soothing effect of Aloe vera.[16]

7. Stability Study

The stability of the formulated gel was assessed by storing the samples at different temperature conditions (room temperature, refrigerated, and elevated temperature) for a specific period. The formulations were periodically evaluated for changes in color, odor, pH, and consistency. No significant changes or phase separation were observed, indicating good stability of the herbal hand sanitizer.[17]

RESULTS

The formulated herbal hand sanitizer gel was evaluated for various physicochemical and biological parameters. The results obtained are summarized below:

Table no 2 : Evaluation Results of Herbal Hand Sanitizer

Sr. No.	Parameter	Result/Observation
1	Physical Appearance	Smooth, clear gel
2	Color	Transparent to light green
3	Odor	Pleasant
4	pH	6.2 ± 0.1
5	Viscosity	Moderate, suitable for gel
6	Spreadability	Good (easily spreadable)
7	Antimicrobial Activity	Effective against bacteria
8	Skin Irritation Test	No irritation observed
9	Stability Study	Stable, no phase separation

Fig D. final product of aloe vera gel, jasmine oil, lavender oil, and carbopol as a gelling agent herbal hand sanitizer

DISCUSSION

The present study successfully formulated a herbal hand sanitizer using natural and synthetic components to achieve both antimicrobial effectiveness and skin compatibility.The organoleptic properties of the formulation, including color, odor, and texture, were found to be satisfactory. The gel appeared smooth and uniform without any lumps, indicating proper formulation and mixing. The pleasant fragrance was mainly due to the incorporation of essential oils, which improved user acceptability.The pH of the formulation (6.2) was within the acceptable skin-friendly range (5.5–7), suggesting that the formulation is unlikely to cause irritation or dryness. Maintaining an appropriate pH is critical for preserving the natural barrier of the skin.The viscosity of the gel was found to be moderate, which ensured easy application and retention on the skin surface. The use of Carbopol as a gelling agent contributed to achieving the desired consistency and stability.

The spreadability test indicated that the gel spreads easily on the skin, ensuring uniform distribution and effective coverage. Good spreadability is essential for maximizing contact with microorganisms.The antimicrobial activity of the formulation demonstrated its effectiveness against common bacteria. This activity can be attributed to the presence of ethanol along with herbal components such as Lavender oil, which possesses strong antimicrobial properties, and Jasmine oil, which enhances the formulation with mild antimicrobial action and fragrance.The skin irritation test confirmed that the formulation is safe for topical use, as no redness, itching, or irritation was observed. The presence of Aloe vera played a significant role in soothing and moisturizing the skin, reducing the drying effect of alcohol.

The stability studies revealed that the formulation remained stable under different storage conditions without any significant changes in physical appearance, pH, or consistency. This indicates good shelf stability and suitability for practical use.Overall, the results suggest that the formulated herbal hand sanitizer meets the required quality standards and performs effectively as an antimicrobial agent while being gentle on the skin.

CONCLUSION

The present study successfully developed and evaluated a herbal hand sanitizer gel containing Aloe vera, jasmine oil, lavender oil, and Carbopol. The formulation demonstrated satisfactory physicochemical properties, effective antimicrobial activity, and good stability.The inclusion of natural ingredients such as Aloe vera and essential oils not only enhanced antimicrobial efficacy but also improved skin compatibility by providing moisturizing and soothing effects. The formulation was found to be non-irritant, easy to apply, and aesthetically acceptable.Thus, the developed herbal hand sanitizer can be considered a safe, effective, and economical alternative to conventional alcohol-based sanitizers. It has potential for commercial application and can contribute to improved hand hygiene with minimal side effects.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

Regarding this investigation, the authors have no conflicts of interest.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

For the literature review, the authors are grateful to Paramhansa Ramkrishna Maunibaba

Shikshan Sanstha's Anuradha College of Pharmacy, Library inAnuradha Nagar, Sakegaon

Road, Chikhli, Buldhana – 443201.

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