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Abstract

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal oil-based serum using natural ingredients with potential cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. With the increasing demand for safe and effective skincare products, herbal formulations have gained significant importance due to their minimal side effects and high compatibility with the skin. The objective of this study was to develop a stable and effective serum incorporating essential oils and carrier oil for improved skin health.The serum was formulated using jojoba oil as a carrier oil, along with essential oils such as lavender, sandalwood, jasmine, and lemongrass. Vitamin E was incorporated as an antioxidant to enhance stability and provide additional skin benefits. The formulation was prepared by simple mixing and evaluated for various parameters including organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, spread ability, stability, peroxide value, and skin irritation.The results indicated that the serum possessed desirable characteristics such as clear appearance, pleasant aroma, good spread ability, and suitable viscosity. The pH was found to be within the acceptable range for topical application. Stability studies showed no significant changes under different storage conditions, confirming the stability of the formulation. The peroxide value was low, indicating good oxidative stability, and no irritation or adverse effects were observed during the skin irritation test. Additionally, the formulation exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity due to the presence of essential oils.In conclusion, the developed herbal serum demonstrated satisfactory performance in terms of quality, safety, and effectiveness. The formulation can serve as a promising alternative to synthetic skincare products and offers multiple benefits such as moisturization, protection, and nourishment of the skin.

Keywords

Herbal serum, Essential oils, Jojoba oil, Vitamin E, Lavender, Jasmine, Lemongrass, Sandalwood, Rosemery

Introduction

The growing prevalence of stress and anxiety in modern life has increased the demand for safe, natural, and effective therapeutic alternatives. Anxiety is an unpleasant emotional condition characterized by persistent worry, restlessness, nervousness, and fear, which can significantly affect an individual's daily functioning and overall well-being¹. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common mental health disorders worldwide, affecting millions of individuals across all age groups, with women being twice as likely to be affected as men¹. Conventional pharmacological treatments such as benzodiazepines and antidepressants, although effective, are associated with side effects including dependency, sedation, and tolerance, which has encouraged the exploration of natural and complementary approaches².

Aromatherapy, which involves the therapeutic use of plant-derived essential oils, has gained significant attention as a natural method for managing stress and anxiety. Essential oils exert their effects by stimulating olfactory receptors, which transmit signals to the limbic system of the brain, directly influencing mood, emotional responses, and autonomic nervous system activity.3,4 Several essential oils have been scientifically validated for their anxiolytic and stress-relieving properties. Lemongrass oil (Cymbopogon citratus) has been reported to restore autonomic nervous system balance and improve heart rate variability in anxiety patients.5,6 Lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) is widely known for its calming and sedative effects, and inhalation has been shown to reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and promote parasympathetic activity.7,8 Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis) has demonstrated anti-stress effects by reducing cortisone levels and improving mood and cognitive function.9 Sandalwood oil (Santalum album) possesses neuroleptic and calming properties, and has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety indicators such as blood pressure and pulse rate.10

The present study was carried out to formulate and evaluate a herbal oil-based serum using a synergistic combination of these essential oils for anti-stress and anxiety relief through topical application. The serum was prepared using jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis) as the carrier oil, which is well known for its excellent skin compatibility, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.11,12 Vitamin E (tocopherol) was incorporated as a natural antioxidant to enhance the oxidative stability of the formulation and provide additional skin-nourishing benefits.13 The aim was to develop a stable, safe, and effective herbal serum that serves as a promising natural alternative to conventional anxiolytic therapies, offering a non-invasive and accessible option for individuals seeking relief from everyday stress and anxiety.

1.1 Plant Profile:

1. Lavender : 14,8,15

 

 

 

 

Biological Source

Obtained from the flower of Lavandula Angustifolia

Family

Lamiaceae

Chemical constituents

Linalool, Linalyl acetate

Category

Essential oil, Aromatic

Uses

Anti-anxiety & Calming agent

Antimicrobial

Improve sleep quality

Mechanism

Acts on CNS by modulating GABA receptors producing sedative effect

 

2.Sandalwood oil: 10,16,17

 

 

  

 

Biological Source

Obtained from the heartwood of Santalum album

Family

Santalaceae

Chemical constituents

α-Santalol, β-Santalol

Category

Essential oil, Aromatic

Uses

Anti-inflammatory

Calming and grounding agent

Skin soothing

Mechanism

Produces relaxation and reduces mental stress

 

 3.Jasmine Oil: 18,19,20

 

 

   

 

Biological Source

Extraxted from flowers of Jasminum officinale

Family

Oleaceae

Chemical constituents

Benzyl acetate, linalool, Indole

Category

Essential oil,

Uses

Mood enhancer

Anti-depressant

Mechanism

Stimulates nervous system and improves emotional balance

 

4. Lemongrass Oil: 5,21,6

 

 

 

 

Biological Source

Obtained from leaves of Cymbopogon Citratus

Family

Poaceae

Chemical constituents

Citral, myrcene

Category

Essential oil,

Uses

Antimicrobial

Stress-relieving agent

Mechanism

Provides refreshing effect and reduces mental fatigue

 

 5. Rosemary Oil: 9,22,23

 

 

 

 

Biological Source

Obtained from the leaves of Rosmarinus officinals

Family

Lamiaceae

Chemical constituents

1,8-Cineole, Camphor, α-pinene, Borneol

Category

Essential oil,

Uses

Reduces stress and mental faituge

Improves memory and concentration

Mechanism

Enhances neurotransmitter activity and reduces stress through the limbic system

 

6. Jojoba oil: 11,12,24

 

 

 

 

Biological Source

Extracted from seeds of simmondsia chinensis

Family

Simmondsiaceae

Chemical constituents

Wax esters, fatty acids

Category

Carrier oil

Uses

Moisturizing agent

Enhances absorption of essential oil

Mechanism

Mimic natural sebum and improve skin hydration

 

    1.  Mechanism:

The formulated essential oil–based serum exerts its effect through multiple physiological and biochemical pathways, including olfactory stimulation, neurotransmitter modulation, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis regulation, and autonomic nervous system balance.

1. Olfactory Pathway Activation

The volatile components of essential oils stimulate olfactory receptors present in the nasal cavity. These signals are transmitted to the limbic system, particularly the amygdala and hippocampus, which are responsible for emotional regulation and stress response. This leads to immediate calming and mood-enhancing effects.3,4

2. Neurotransmitter Modulation

Lavender oil contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which act on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, producing sedative and anxiolytic effects. Jasmine oil influences serotonin and dopamine levels, contributing to mood elevation and emotional stability. Rosemary oil enhances acetylcholine activity, improving alertness and reducing mental fatigue.8,28

3. Regulation of HPA Axis

Jasmine oil plays a significant role in reducing cortisol levels by modulating the HPA axis. This helps in controlling the physiological stress response and prevents excessive release of stress hormones.1,26

4. Autonomic Nervous System Balance

Lemongrass oil, rich in citral, reduces sympathetic nervous system activity and enhances parasympathetic activity. This results in decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and overall relaxation.5,6

5. Central Nervous System Sedative Effect

Sandalwood oil, containing α-santalol, produces mild central nervous system depression and promotes relaxation by enhancing alpha brain wave activity.16,17

  1. Material and methodology:

4.1 Materials:

 

 

 

 

Sr. No.

Materials

Category

Quantity 27,29

Mfg. Date:

Supplier

1.

Jojoba oil

Carrier oil

75-96%

DEC/2025

Dravida Organic

2.

Lavender Oil

Essential Oil

15-20%

JUL/2025

Zazla

3.

Sandalwood Oil

Essential Oil

0.5-3%

JAN/2026

Khadi Organique

4.

Jasmine Oil

Essential Oil

0.5-3%

JUL/2025

Zazla

5.

Lemongrass Oil

Essential oil

0.5-3%

------

--------

6.

Rosemary Oil

Essential oil

0.5-3%

NOV/2025

Khadi Organique

7.

Vitamin E

Antioxidant

0.1-1.0%

JAN/2026

SKS Biotech

 

 3. Methodology:

4.2.1: Formulation Design:

The herbal serum was designed as an oil-based topical formulation using a suitable carrier oil and a combination of essential oils. The concentration of essential oils was maintained within safe limits (below 2–3%) to prevent skin irritation and ensure safe application.

4.2.2 Method of Preparations: 27,29

  1. All glassware and apparatus were properly cleaned and dried before use.
  2. A measured quantity of jojoba oil was taken in a clean, dry glass beaker to serve as the base.
  3. Vitamin E capsule was punctured and its contents were added to the carrier oil.
  4. Required quantities of essential oils (lavender, sandalwood, jasmine, lemongrass, and rosemary) were added dropwise to the base.
  5. The mixture was stirred gently using a glass rod to ensure uniform mixing and homogeneity.
  6. The prepared serum was transferred into a clean, dry amber-colored glass bottle to protect it from light.
  7. The container was tightly closed, labeled, and stored under suitable conditions.

Trail 1:

 

Ingredient

Quantity %

For : 20 ml

Jojoba Oil

94.0%

15.5ml

Sweet Almond Oil

18.0%

3.6ml

Lavender Essential Oil

2.0%

0.4ml

Lemongrass Essential Oil

1.0%

0.2ml

Jasmine Essential Oil

0.8%

0.16ml

Vitamin

0.7%

0.14ml

 

Conclusion : Earlier, the almond oil was overpowering the other essential oils, because of which their fragrance was not coming out properly. This could reduce their overall effect.

Trail 2:

 

Ingredient

Quantity %

For : 30 ml

Jojoba Oil

95.0%

28.5ml

Lavender Essential Oil

2.0%

0.6ml

Lemongrass Essential Oil

1.0%

0.3ml

Jasmine Essential Oil

1.0%

0.3ml

Vitamin

0.9%

0.27ml

 

Conclusion: The effect we anticipated from the essential oil was not coming through it lacked the relaxing impact we were aiming for it.

Trail 3:

Ingredient

Quantity %

For : 10 ml

Jojoba Oil

77.5%

9.4ml

Lavender Essential Oil

2.0%

0.2ml

Lemongrass Essential Oil

1.0%

0.1ml

Jasmine Essential Oil

1.0%

0.1ml

Sandalwood Essential Oil

1.0%

0.1ml

Vitamin

0.9%

0.09ml

Conclusion: The formulation was prepared for individuals sensitive to strong fragrances. By increasing the proportion of lemongrass, lavender, and jasmine essential oils, the overall aroma became mild, smooth, and soothing.

Trail 4:

Ingredient

Quantity %

For : 10 ml

Jojoba Oil

94%

9.4ml

Lavender Essential Oil

1%

0.1ml

Lemongrass Essential Oil

0.9%

0.09ml

Jasmine Essential Oil

0.7%

0.07ml

Sandalwood Essential Oil

2.0%

0.2ml

Rosemary

0.7%

0.07ml

Vitamin E

0.9%

0.09ml

Conclusion: The fourth trial showed that increasing sandalwood and rosemary created a stronger, more intense aroma, making the blend suitable for users who can tolerate high fragrance levels and still achieve a relaxing effect.

Trail 5: (Final Product)

Ingredient

Quantity %

For : 10 ml

Jojoba Oil

94%

9.4ml

Lavender Essential Oil

0.7%

0.07ml

Lemongrass Essential Oil

0.7%

0.07ml

Jasmine Essential Oil

0.7%

0.07ml

Sandalwood Essential Oil

2.0%

0.2ml

Rosemary

1.0%

0.1ml

Vitamin E

0.9%

0.09ml

Conclusion: The fifth trial resulted in a well-balanced and optimized formulation, combining both mild soothing notes and moderate aromatic strength. The adjusted proportions of essential oils provided a pleasant, non-irritating fragrance with effective calming and anxiolytic properties.

This formulation demonstrated better acceptability, improved sensory characteristics, and suitable therapeutic effect, making it the final selected composition for the anti-stress serum.

4. Characteristics of Serum: 30,31

  1. Organoleptic Properties:

The formulation was evaluated visually and sensorially to assess its overall quality and acceptability. Observations were made for color, odor, appearance (clarity or turbidity), and texture (smoothness or greasiness). A small quantity of the serum was taken and examined under normal light conditions to record these characteristics systematically.

Result Expression: Reported descriptively (e.g., pale yellow, pleasant odor, smooth texture).

  1. pH Determination:

The procedure involved taking 1 mL of serum and diluting it with 10 mL of distilled water. The mixture was stirred thoroughly to obtain a uniform solution. The pH of the prepared solution was then measured using a calibrated digital pH meter to ensure accuracy.

Formula: No calculation required (direct reading).

Ideal range: Skin-friendly pH: 5.5 – 7

  1. Viscosity:

Method (Ostwald Viscometer):

The viscometer was filled with the serum sample, and the flow time (t?) of the serum was measured. Subsequently, the flow time (t?) of distilled water was recorded under the same conditions. The densities of both liquids were noted, with ρ? representing the density of the serum and ρ? representing the density of distilled water. These values were used to evaluate the relative viscosity of the sample.

Formula:

η1=η2×ρ1×t1ρ2×t2

Where:

 

  • η? = viscosity of sample
  • η? = viscosity of water
  • ρ = density
  • t = flow time

 

  1. Spreadability:

Method:

The method was carried out by placing a small amount of serum between two glass slides. A known weight, such as 500 g, was then applied to the slides. The time (T) taken for the serum to spread under the applied load was measured and recorded for evaluation.

Formula:

S=M×LT

Where:

 

  • S = Spreadability
  • M = Weight tied to upper slide (g)
  • L = Length moved by slide (cm)
  • T = Time taken (sec)
  1. Stability Study:

Method:

The samples were stored at two different conditions: room temperature (25?°C) and elevated temperature (40?°C). They were observed over a period of 15–30 days to monitor any changes. During this time, evaluations were made for alterations in colour, Odor, phase separation, and pH, providing insight into the stability of the formulation under varying storage conditions.

Result Expression: Stable / Unstable (based on physical changes)

  1. Specific Gravity:

Method:

The method was performed by first weighing the empty specific gravity bottle to obtain W?. The bottle was then filled with distilled water and weighed again to record W?. Finally, the bottle was filled with the serum sample and weighed to determine W?. These measurements were used to calculate the specific gravity of the serum in comparison to water.

Formula:

Specific Gravity=W3-W1W2-W1

 

  1. Acid Value:

Method:

The sample was first dissolved in ethanol to prepare a suitable solution. Phenolphthalein indicator was then added to the mixture. The prepared solution was titrated with 0.1?N potassium hydroxide (KOH) until the appearance of a persistent pink color indicated the endpoint of the titration.

Formula:

Acid Value=V×N×56.1W

Where:

 

  • V = Volume of KOH used (mL)
  • N = Normality of KOH
  • W = Weight of sample (g)
  • 56.1 = Molecular weight of KOH
  1. Peroxide Value:

Method:

The sample was dissolved in a mixture of acetic acid and chloroform to prepare the solution. Potassium iodide (KI) was then added, which liberated iodine from the sample. The released iodine was subsequently titrated with sodium thiosulfate using starch as an indicator, with the endpoint marked by the disappearance of the blue color.

Formula:

Peroxide Value=V×N×1000W

Where:

 

  • V = Volume of Na?S?O? (mL)
  • N = Normality
  • W = Weight of sample (g)
  1. Skin Irritation Test:

Method:

The skin irritation test was conducted by applying a small amount of serum onto the     forearm skin. The applied area was left undisturbed for 24 hours. After this period, observations were made to check for any signs of redness, itching, or swelling, which would indicate potential irritation or sensitivity caused by the formulation.

Result Expression:

  • No irritation → Safe
  • Irritation observed → Not suitable

RESULT AND DISCUSSION:

5.1 Evaluation

5.1.1 Organoleptic properties: 

Color

Pale Yellow

Odour

Pleasant, Aromatic

Appearance

Clear and transparent

Texture

Smooth, non-greasy

 

Observation: The formulation was aesthetically acceptable with a pleasant fragrance.

5.1.2 pH Determination:

Sr. No.

Trial

pH value

1.

1

4.5

2.

2

4.8

3.

3

4.9

Avg.

4.7

Observation: The pH was within the acceptable range for skin application.

5.1.3 Viscosity:

Sr. No.

Parameter

Water

Serum

1.

Viscosity

0.890cP

7.34cP

2.

Density

0.997

0.834

 

Observation: The formulation serum showed moderate viscosity, indicating good flow properties and ease of application on the skin.

5.1.4 Spreadability:

Sr. No.

Parameter

Observation

1.

Spreadability

Good

2.

Nature

Easily spreadable

 

Observation: The formulation spread uniformly without leaving excessive oiliness.

5.1.5 Stability study:

Room Temperature

7 Day

No change

 

Observation: The formulation remained stable under storage condition.

5.1.6 Peroxide value:

 

Sr. No.

Trial

Peroxide Value

1

1

7

2

2

8

3

3

7

Average

7.33

 

 Observation: Lower the peroxide value indicates good oxidative stability.

 5.1.7 Skin Irritation test:

Sr. No.

Parameter

Observation

1

Irritation

Absent

2

Redness

Not Observed

3

Sensitivity

No adverse effect

 Observation: The serum was safe and non-irritant for topical use.

5.1.8 Acid Value:

Sr. No.

Trail

Value

1.

1

2.1

2

2

3.66

3

3

2.805

Average
    1. KOH

 Observation: Low acid value indicates minimal free fatty acids and good stability of the formulation.

5.2 Result :

 

Parameter

Observation

Acceptable Range 32,33,34

Organoleptic

Pale yellow, Pleasant & Clear

Clear, Free from turbidity

pH

4.7

4.5-6.5

Density

0.834

0.80-0.95g/ml

Viscosity

7.34 cP

5-50cP

Spreadability

Easily Spreadable

Should spread easily without excessive greasiness

Stability

Good

No change

Peroxide value

7.33

<10meq/kg

Acid value

2.757 mg KOH

<4mg KOH/g

Skin Irritation test

Not observe

No Irritation
 

5.3 DISCUSSION:

The present study focused on the formulation of a polyherbal essential oil–based serum intended for stress and anxiety management. The formulation was developed using a combination of lavender, jasmine, lemongrass, sandalwood, and rosemary essential oils, along with jojoba oil and sweet almond oil as carrier bases.10,16,17,8

The developed formulation exhibited desirable physicochemical characteristics such as clarity, homogeneity, pleasant aroma, and good spreadability. These properties indicate that the selected ingredients are compatible and suitable for topical application. The non-greasy nature and rapid absorption of the serum can be attributed to jojoba oil, which closely resembles human sebum, thereby enhancing dermal penetration and improving user acceptability.

The therapeutic potential of the formulation is primarily based on the synergistic action of the selected essential oils. Lavender oil, rich in linalool, is known to modulate GABA receptors, resulting in anxiolytic and sedative effects.26,27 Jasmine oil contributes to mood enhancement and reduction of cortisol levels, thereby regulating the stress response. Lemongrass oil plays a role in balancing the autonomic nervous system by reducing sympathetic activity and promoting relaxation.15,16 Sandalwood oil, containing α-santalol, produces a calming and grounding effect through mild central nervous system depression. Rosemary oil, rich in 1,8-cineole, enhances cognitive function and reduces mental fatigue, thereby providing a balanced effect in the formulation.

The combination of these essential oils results in a multi-target mechanism involving olfactory stimulation, neurotransmitter modulation, and hormonal regulation. The aromatic components stimulate the olfactory receptors, which in turn activate the limbic system, leading to emotional and psychological relaxation. Additionally, transdermal absorption of active constituents ensures sustained therapeutic action.

The formulation also demonstrated good preliminary stability, which can be attributed to the anhydrous nature of the system and the presence of vitamin E as an antioxidant, preventing oxidative degradation of essential oils. The absence of water in the formulation reduces the risk of microbial contamination, thereby enhancing product stability.

Although the formulation shows promising characteristics, the study is limited by the absence of experimental and clinical evaluation. Further studies involving physicochemical testing, stability analysis, and clinical trials are required to validate the efficacy and safety of the formulation.18,29,30

In conclusion, the developed essential oil serum demonstrates significant potential as a natural and effective anti-stress formulation. The synergistic combination of essential oils targeting multiple physiological pathways provides a strong basis for its use in aromatherapeutic applications.

CONCLUSION

The present study successfully developed an optimized herbal anti-stress and anxiety relief serum using a synergistic blend of essential oils and carrier oils. The final formulation (Trial 5) exhibited significant calming and anxiolytic activity, along with good stability, skin compatibility, and user acceptability. The balanced composition provided a pleasant, non-irritating aroma with sustained therapeutic effect, making it suitable for regular topical application.

The formulation highlights the effectiveness of natural and plant-based ingredients as a safer alternative to conventional therapies, minimizing the risk of side effects while delivering noticeable stress-relieving benefits.

Furthermore, this work demonstrates strong potential for future development in cosmeceutical, aromatherapy, and herbal pharmaceutical fields. With further studies such as clinical trials, long-term stability testing, and formulation optimization, the product can be scaled up for commercial production. It may also be explored in different dosage forms like roll-ons, creams, or aromatherapy inhalers, expanding its application in wellness and mental health care.

Compliance with ethical standards :

Acknowledge:

We sincerely express our deep sense of gratitude to our project guide for their invaluable guidance, constant encouragement, and expert supervision throughout the course of this research work, whose support was instrumental in the successful completion of this study. We are highly thankful to the faculty members and our institution for providing the necessary facilities, resources, and academic support required for this work. We also acknowledge our families and friends for their continuous encouragement and moral support, which greatly motivated us to complete this project successfully.

A special thanks to Dr. Ronak Dedania for her endless support and guidance provided during the completion of this review article.

Funding:

This research did not receive any grants from funding agencies in the public or private sectors.

Disclosure of Conflict of Interest:

No conflict of interest to be declared.

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  29. Ora LK, et al. Therapeutic potential of essential oils in managing inflammatory skin conditions. Pharmaceuticals. 2024;17(5):571. doi:10.3390/ph17050571
  30. Ramakrishna S, Kulkarni S, Harish K, Ravikumar SR, Thomas MK, Harshitha, et al. Formulation and evaluation of herbal analgesic oil. Int J Pharm Res Sch. 2021;10(3):18–24.
  31. Nayana PV, Navyashree PS, Nidyashree HP, Pavan NK, Preethi NS, Rakshitha C. A review on the formulation and evaluation of herbal cold creams incorporating natural oils. J Pharma Insights Res. 2024;2(4):207–211. doi:10.69613/jpir.v2i4.20
  32. Comparative quality assessment of edible and blended edible oils. JOB [Internet]. 2024 Oct. 18 [cited 2026 Apr. 6];11(2):129-33. Available from: https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/JOB/article/view/158428
  33. V P, K S, K M, et al. Comparative evaluation of phytochemical, nutritional, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cold pressed oils in India. Sci Rep. 2025;15:39200. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-09096-7.
  34. Prasanth MA, Rani S, Singh SP, et al. Formulation and evaluation of bio-grease from the blend of chemically modified rice bran oil and Calophyllum inophyllum oil. J Eng Appl Sci. 2024;71:80. doi:10.1186/s44147-024-00414-w.
  35. Tanida M, Niijima A, Shen J, Nakamura T, Nagai K. Olfactory stimulation with scent of lavender oil affects autonomic neurotransmission and blood pressure in rats. Neurosci Lett. 2005;375(1):10–14. doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2004.10.052
  36. Lehrner J, Marwinski G, Lehr S, Johren P, Deecke L. Ambient odors of orange and lavender reduce anxiety. Physiol Behav. 2005;86(1–2):92–95.
  37. Kritsidima M, Newton T, Asimakopoulou K. Lavender scent reduces dental anxiety. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 2010;38(1):83–87.
  38. Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender affect cognition and mood. Int J Neurosci. 2003;113(1):15–38.
  39. Setzer WN. Essential oils and anxiolytic aromatherapy. Nat Prod Commun. 2009;4(9):1305–1316.
  40. Field T, Diego M, Hernandez-Reif M. Lavender fragrance cleansing gel effects on relaxation. Int J Neurosci. 2005;115(2):207–222.
  41. Bradley BF, Brown SL, Chu S, Lea RW. Effects of orally administered lavender oil on responses to anxiety-provoking stimuli. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009;24(4):319–330.
  42. Woelk H, Schläfke S. A multi-center, double-blind, randomized study of lavender oil preparation in generalized anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(2):94–99.
  43. Umezu T, Nagano K, Ito H, Kosakai K, Sakaniwa M, Morita M. Anticonflict effects of lavender oil and identification of active constituents. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2006;85(4):713–721.
  44. Kessler RC, Petukhova M, Sampson NA, Zaslavsky AM, Wittchen HU. Twelve-month and lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res. 2012;21(3):169–184.
  45. Ali B, Al-Wabel NA, Shams S, Ahamad A, Khan SA, Anwar F. Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systematic review. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2015;5(8):601–611.
  46. Dhifi W, Bellili S, Jazi S, Bahloul N, Mnif W. Essential oils’ chemical characterization and biological activities: A review. Medicines. 2016;3(4):25.
  47. de Groot AC, Schmidt E. Essential oils, part I: Introduction. Dermatitis. 2016;27(2):39–42.
  48. Proksch E, Brandner JM, Jensen JM. The skin: An indispensable barrier. Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(12):1063–1072.
  49. Bakkali F, Averbeck S, Averbeck D, Idaomar M. Biological effects of essential oils: A review. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008;46(2):446–475.
  50. Burt S. Essential oils: Their antibacterial properties and potential applications. Int J Food Microbiol. 2004;94(3):223–253.

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  30. Ramakrishna S, Kulkarni S, Harish K, Ravikumar SR, Thomas MK, Harshitha, et al. Formulation and evaluation of herbal analgesic oil. Int J Pharm Res Sch. 2021;10(3):18–24.
  31. Nayana PV, Navyashree PS, Nidyashree HP, Pavan NK, Preethi NS, Rakshitha C. A review on the formulation and evaluation of herbal cold creams incorporating natural oils. J Pharma Insights Res. 2024;2(4):207–211. doi:10.69613/jpir.v2i4.20
  32. Comparative quality assessment of edible and blended edible oils. JOB [Internet]. 2024 Oct. 18 [cited 2026 Apr. 6];11(2):129-33. Available from: https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/JOB/article/view/158428
  33. V P, K S, K M, et al. Comparative evaluation of phytochemical, nutritional, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cold pressed oils in India. Sci Rep. 2025;15:39200. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-09096-7.
  34. Prasanth MA, Rani S, Singh SP, et al. Formulation and evaluation of bio-grease from the blend of chemically modified rice bran oil and Calophyllum inophyllum oil. J Eng Appl Sci. 2024;71:80. doi:10.1186/s44147-024-00414-w.
  35. Tanida M, Niijima A, Shen J, Nakamura T, Nagai K. Olfactory stimulation with scent of lavender oil affects autonomic neurotransmission and blood pressure in rats. Neurosci Lett. 2005;375(1):10–14. doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2004.10.052
  36. Lehrner J, Marwinski G, Lehr S, Johren P, Deecke L. Ambient odors of orange and lavender reduce anxiety. Physiol Behav. 2005;86(1–2):92–95.
  37. Kritsidima M, Newton T, Asimakopoulou K. Lavender scent reduces dental anxiety. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 2010;38(1):83–87.
  38. Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender affect cognition and mood. Int J Neurosci. 2003;113(1):15–38.
  39. Setzer WN. Essential oils and anxiolytic aromatherapy. Nat Prod Commun. 2009;4(9):1305–1316.
  40. Field T, Diego M, Hernandez-Reif M. Lavender fragrance cleansing gel effects on relaxation. Int J Neurosci. 2005;115(2):207–222.
  41. Bradley BF, Brown SL, Chu S, Lea RW. Effects of orally administered lavender oil on responses to anxiety-provoking stimuli. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009;24(4):319–330.
  42. Woelk H, Schläfke S. A multi-center, double-blind, randomized study of lavender oil preparation in generalized anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(2):94–99.
  43. Umezu T, Nagano K, Ito H, Kosakai K, Sakaniwa M, Morita M. Anticonflict effects of lavender oil and identification of active constituents. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2006;85(4):713–721.
  44. Kessler RC, Petukhova M, Sampson NA, Zaslavsky AM, Wittchen HU. Twelve-month and lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res. 2012;21(3):169–184.
  45. Ali B, Al-Wabel NA, Shams S, Ahamad A, Khan SA, Anwar F. Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systematic review. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2015;5(8):601–611.
  46. Dhifi W, Bellili S, Jazi S, Bahloul N, Mnif W. Essential oils’ chemical characterization and biological activities: A review. Medicines. 2016;3(4):25.
  47. de Groot AC, Schmidt E. Essential oils, part I: Introduction. Dermatitis. 2016;27(2):39–42.
  48. Proksch E, Brandner JM, Jensen JM. The skin: An indispensable barrier. Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(12):1063–1072.
  49. Bakkali F, Averbeck S, Averbeck D, Idaomar M. Biological effects of essential oils: A review. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008;46(2):446–475.
  50. Burt S. Essential oils: Their antibacterial properties and potential applications. Int J Food Microbiol. 2004;94(3):223–253.

Photo
Maurya JiteshKumar
Corresponding author

Department of Pharmaceutics, Bhagwan Mahavir College of Pharmacy

Photo
Dubey Nikhilkumar
Co-author

Department of Pharmaceutics, Bhagwan Mahavir College of Pharmacy

Maurya JiteshKumar, Formulation and Evaluation of Serum for Anti-stress & Anxiety Relief, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2026, Vol 4, Issue 5, 4856-4869 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20284350

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