Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

This current research deals with the development and assessment of a polyherbal cream involving natural extracts of carrot (Daucus carota), beetroot (Beta vulgaris), and neem (Azadirachta indica), which have been known to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The cream was prepared based on a standard oil-in-water emulsion base that included stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, rose water, potassium hydroxide, glycerin, sodium carbonate, triethanolamine, and purified water. The main aim was to create a stable, skin-compatible herbal cream with possible dermatological activity. The extracts were created through suitable extraction methods and added to the cream base in different concentrations. Physicochemical parameters of the formulated creams were analyzed for pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, homogeneity, and skin irritation potential. Initial results indicated good stability, satisfactory pH (5.5-6.5), and superior spreadability without phase separation or skin irritation. The synergistic action of the herbal ingredients is likely to optimize skin nutrition, hydration, and shielding against microbial and oxidative stress. The polyherbal cream formulated was tested for antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) employing the agar well diffusion test. The findings revealed that the cream displayed quantifiable antimicrobial activity with zones of inhibition of 4 mm against S. aureus and 3 mm against E. coli. These results suggest that the polyherbal ingredients especially neem with its potent antibacterial activity are responsible for the cream's inhibition of common skin pathogens. Although the zones observed indicate moderate antimicrobial effect, they confirm the promise of the formulation to be applied in the prevention of minor skin infections and maintenance of skin hygiene. This work validates the promise of combining more than one herbal agent in a combined topical product, providing a safe, effective, and convenient option for daily skincare.