Formulation And Evaluation of Polyherbal Cold Cream

Extraction of tulsi leaves

After collection, the Tulsi leaves were thoroughly washed with distilled water and dried using a hot air oven. Once completely dried, the leaves were ground into a fine powder. About 1 g of this powder was transferred into a volumetric flask, and 10 ml of ethanol was added. The mixture was shaken continuously for three days to ensure proper extraction. Later, the solution was heated on a water bath at a temperature range of 80–100°C for a few minutes. It was then concentrated to approximately 5 ml and filtered using filter paper to remove any impurities. The clear liquid obtained after filtration, known as the filtrate, was collected as the Tulsi leaf extract.[7]

FORMULATION TABLE:-

Table No.1:Formulation table

Ingredients And Their Chemical Composition :

1. Borax :

Borax is white, crystalline substance that forms an alkaline solution when mixed with water. It is valued for its useful chemical properties, including its ability to act as an emulsifier ,regulate pH, and clean effectively. Although it is widely used in various fields,it must be handled carefully because too much exposure can lead to toxicity if swallowed or can irritate the skin. In summary, due to its emulsifying, cleaning, and mild antibacterial properties, borax is an important component in personal care products, industrial uses, and household cleaning items.

Application :

1. used as an emulsifying ,agent is cold creams.
2.  Helps maintain texture and stability of formulation.
3.  Act as a mild antiseptic in some products .
4. Used in buffer solutions to maintain PH.
5. Acts as mild antiseptic for skin applications.

2. BEESWAX :

Beeswax is a natural wax widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals due to its protective, thickening, and stabilizing properties. Beeswax helps protect the skin from irritation by forming a barrier when applied on the surface. It shields the skin from harsh weather and environmental pollutants. It also supports hair care by locking in moisture, keeping hair soft and hydrated.  Beeswax can coat the skin, creating a protective layer and because it acts as a humectant, it attracts and retains moisture . these qualities help the skin stay hydrated. it works as a natural exfoliant , helping to remove dead skin cells.[18]

Application :

i)Used as a thickening agent in creams and lotions

ii) Acts as an emollient.

iii)Forms a protective barrier on the skin, common in lip balms, cold creams and ointments.

iv)Used as a base for ointments and creams.

v) Helps  in controlled drug release provides stability to formulation.

 3. METHYL PARABEN

Methyl paraben is widely used as preservative to stop the growth of harmful micro-organisms .It is one type of paraben and parabens are chemicals commonly added to products to extend their shelf life. they help prevent the growth of  mold and other harmful germs in food and cosmetic product. Many items that contain methyl paraben may also include other type of parabens. these substances are widely present in foods ,medicines ,and cosmetics . Various cosmetic products such as makeup, moisturizer, hair care items, and shaving products often contain parabens.[20]

Application :

1. Prevents growth of bacteria and fungal in products .
2. Used in creams ,lotions , shampoos, and makeup.
3. Helps increase shelf life of cosmetic product.
4. Used as a preservatives in syrup , ointments, and gels.
5. Maintains product safety and stability prevents microbial contamination.

4. Liquid paraffin:

Liquid paraffin , also called paraffinum liquidum or mineral oil ,is a highly purified oil  used in cosmetic and medicinal products. It  is a clear , colorless ,a almost , odourless , and oily liquid made up of saturated hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum .unlike industrial paraffin or kerosene , the liquid paraffin used in cosmetics is well- refined and considered safe for use on the skin .[21]

Application:

1. Acts as an emollient .
2. Forms a protective barrier to prevent water loss .
3. Used in cold creams, lotions, and baby oils .
4. Gives a smooth and glossy texture .
5. Used as a laxative to relieve constipation .
6. Acts as a base for ointments and creams.
7. Helps in soothing dry  and irritated skin.

5. Turmeric :

Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a commonly used spice with many medicinal properties. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects, which help in treating various skin problems such as pigmentation, acne, and signs of aging. The main active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory action. Because turmeric is easily available in most Indian households, it is widely used as a natural remedy for skincare.

Application :

1. Helps reduce acne and pimples .
2. Lightens pigmentation and dark spots .
3. Improve skin glow and complexation .
4. Used in face packs and creams .
5. Helps in wound healing .
6. Act as anti- inflammatory agent.
7. Has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.

6. Tulsi

Tulsi (Holy Basil), scientifically known as Ocimum tenuiflorum, is a sacred and medicinal herb widely used in India. It is an important part of Ayurveda and is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Tulsi is commonly used to treat cough, cold, and fever, and is also valued for its spiritual and health benefits.

Application:

1. Acts as an antibacterial , antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agent.
2. Used in skin care products to treat acne and pimples.
3. Helps in hair care to reduce dandruff and hair fall.
4. Helps in air purification.

7. Rose oil

Rose oil is widely used because of its pleasant and rich fragrance, which helps improve the sensory appeal of products. It is obtained from rose petals and provides a soothing aroma that enhances the experience of using cosmetics, perfumes, and personal care products. In addition to its fragrance, rose oil may also offer medicinal benefits such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can improve the overall performance of a product. However, it should be carefully selected and used in the right concentration to ensure good fragrance, stability, and safety in the final formulation.[19]

Application:

1. Acts as natural moisturizer.
2. Helps reduce redness and irritation .
3. Usefull in antiaging products.
4. Improves skin tone and glow.
5. Works as an antioxidant.
6. Has anti-inflammatory properties.

8. Almond oil

Almond oil is a natural oil extracted from almonds, mainly from Prunus dulcis. It is widely used in cosmetics and healthcare due to its rich content of vitamins ,fatty acids, and antioxidants.

It is known for its moisturizing, nourishing, and soothing properties, making it useful for skin care, hair care, and massage. Almond oil is gentle and suitable for most skin types, helping to improve skin softness and hair strength.

Application:

1. Acts as a natural moisturizer for dry skin .
2. Helps improve skin glow and softness.
3. Useful in reducing dark circle and fine lines.
4. Keeps baby skin and smoothness to hair.
5. Acts as an emollient and carrier oil  in formulations.

PROCEDURE OF COLD CREAMS :

Weigh all ingredients accurately according to the formulation table.

Preparation of oil phase: Take beeswax, liquid paraffin, and almond oil in a clean beaker.

Heat the mixture on a water bath at 70–75°C until all ingredients melt completely.

Preparation of aqueous phase:  In another beaker, take purified water and dissolve borax and methyl paraben in it. Heat this phase separately to 70–75°C.

Emulsification:  Slowly add the hot aqueous phase into the oil phase with continuous stirring.

Addition of herbal extracts: Add turmeric extract and tulsi extract slowly while stirring continuously.

Cooling , Continue stirring and allow the cream to cool gradually.

Addition of perfume.

When the temperature becomes around 40°C, add rose oil and mix properly.

Stir until a smooth and homogeneous cream is formed.

Transfer the prepared cold cream into a clean, dry container and close tightly.[14,15,16,17]

EVALUTION OF HERBAL COLD CREAM:

 It is very important to take evaluation parameters to maintain safety and quality of cream.

1) Physical Appearance :

• • Colour
  • Odour
  • State

2) PH of the cream

To determine the pH, 1 g of cream is dissolved in 100 ml of distilled water. The pH meter is first calibrated using a standard buffer solution, and then the pH of the prepared cream solution is measured.[22]

3) Viscosity :

The viscosity of the cold cream was measured using  a Brookfield viscometer at speed of 30 rpm  ,using spindle number L4.[22]

4) Washability :

The polyherbal cold cream was applied on the hand and then checked by washing it under running water.[22,23]

5) Spreadability :

The cream sample was placed between two glass slides and compressed to obtain a uniform thickness by applying a 100 g weight for 5 minutes. Afterwards, additional weight was added to the weighing pan. The time required for the upper slide to move over the lower slide was recorded as an indicator of spreadability.

Where:

m = weight tied to the upper slide

l = length moved on the glass slide

t = time taken[24,25]

6) Irritancy test :

A 1 sq. cm area was marked on the dorsal surface of the left hand. The cream was applied to the selected area, and the application time was recorded. The treated area was observed at regular intervals for up to 24 hours to check for signs of irritancy, erythema, or edema, and the findings were documented. [26]

7) Stability test :

The prepared cream was kept in a closed container away from light at temperatures between 25°C and 100°C. It was observed for 30 days and 24 hours to check for any phase separation. Any changes noticed or confirmed were recorded .

8) Homogeneity :

Small samples are taken from different parts of the container and checked for texture and consistency. Any separation is observed. The samples are then mixed to see if the cream is uniform. If it is the same throughout  it passes; otherwise  changes are needed.

Result And Discussion :

Physical Appearance

The three formulations colour, odour, state and texture were examined

Table no. 2 Colour , odour  and state

 PH

The results indicated that all three formulations  F1, F2 and F3 showed pH values close to the natural skin pH,  that they are safe and suitable for skin application.

Table no. 3 Observation of pH

Viscosity

The viscosity of the cold cream was measured using  a Brookfield viscometer at speed of 30 rpm  ,using spindle number L4. Table no. 4 Observation of viscometer

Table no. 4 Observation of viscometer

Washability

The washability test was performed by applying a small amount of cream on the hand and rinsing it with tap water. All three formulations were found to be easy to wash off.

Table no. 5  Observation of Washabilit

 SPREADABILITY

The spreadability of formulations F1, F2, and F3 was evaluated. Among them, F3 showed faster separation of the two glass slides. According to the evaluation criteria, a shorter separation time indicates better spreadability; therefore, F3 exhibited superior spreadability compared to the other formulations.

Formula:

S= m x l/t

Where :

S= Spreadability

m=Weight tied to the upper glass slide

l=Length of the glass slide

t=Time taken to separate the slides

Table no 6.Observation of irritancy

Irritancy

A 1 cm² area was marked on the dorsal surface of the left hand. The cream was applied to the marked area, and the application time was noted. The site was then observed for 24 hours for any signs of irritation, redness (erythema), or swelling (edema). The results showed that formulations F1, F2, and F3 did not produce any irritation, erythema, or edema.

Table no.7 Obesrvation of irritancy

Stability   Test

The creams were put in closed containers and kept in the dark at temperatures between 25°C and 100°C. After checking them for 30 days and 24 hours, none of the three mixtures showed

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