Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF “AZADIRACHTA INDICA” ANTI-MICROBIAL BASED GEL FOR TREATMENT OF ACNE

Devakmma Lakumalla*, C. Hemanth, P. Archana, P. Bhargavi

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Abstract

Acne vulgaris, common in teenagers and young adults, results from bacterial infection, excess sebum, inflammation, and follicular hyperkeratinization. Conventional treatments often cause side effects like dryness, irritation, and resistance. Herbal remedies such as Azadirachta indica (neem), known for antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, offer a promising alternative. This study developed topical antimicrobial gels using ethanol-extracted neem leaf via Soxhlet extraction, concentrated by rotary evaporation. Two formulations (F1 and F2) with varying sodium carboxymethyl cellulose concentrations were prepared, including glycerin, propylene glycol, preservatives, and purified water for stability. The gels were evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, spreadability, and FTIR analysis, confirming functional group stability and compatibility. Antimicrobial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes was tested via agar well diffusion, showing strong activity. Formulation F2 exhibited better viscosity and spreadability. Overall, the neem gels demonstrated promising stability and antimicrobial efficacy, supporting further in vivo and clinical studies.

Keywords: Neem, gel, Extraction, Herbal remedy, analysis.