Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF A POLYHERBAL NASAL INHALER FOR REDUCING DIGITAL FATIGUE IN PROLONGED SCREEN USERS

G. P. Jothika*, Dr. K. Rithika, Dr. S. Parthasarathi, M. Vinothini, P. Priyadharshini, R. Mytheen Raj

Abstract

The rapid increase in digital device usage has led to a significant rise in digital fatigue, a condition commonly experienced by individuals who spend prolonged hours in front of screens such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. Digital fatigue is characterized by symptoms including eye strain, headache, mental exhaustion, reduced concentration, nasal dryness, and overall discomfort, which can negatively impact productivity and quality of life. Conventional management strategies such as artificial tears, screen breaks, and blue-light filters provide only partial relief and may not effectively address the neurological and sensory aspects associated with prolonged screen exposure. Hence, there is a growing need for safe, natural, and convenient interventions that can help alleviate digital fatigue. Polyherbal formulations have gained considerable attention in recent years due to their synergistictherapeutic effects, improved efficacy, and reduced risk of adverse reactions. Nasal inhalation therapy represents a rapid and non-invasive route of administration, allowing volatile herbal compounds to directly stimulate the olfactory receptors and influence the limbic system of the brain, which plays a vital role in regulating mood, alertness, and cognitive functions. Herbal essential oils possessing refreshing, calming, and neuroprotective properties may therefore provide potential benefits in reducing symptoms associated with digital fatigue.The present conceptual research focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a polyherbal nasal inhaler designed to reduce digital fatigue in prolonged screen users. Selected herbal ingredients such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, and tulsi are considered based on their documented cooling, decongestant, antioxidant, and cognitive-enhancing properties. The proposed formulation aims to deliver these bioactive volatile compounds through a portable nasal inhaler device that can provide rapid sensory stimulation and mental refreshment. Furthermore, the study conceptually outlines formulation design strategies and evaluation parameters including organoleptic characteristics, aroma intensity, stability, and user acceptability. The development of such a polyherbal nasal inhaler may offer a natural, safe, and convenient approach for managing digital fatigue among students, professionals, and individuals exposed to prolonged screen time. This conceptual work may serve as a foundation for future experimental studies and clinical validation in the development of innovative herbal therapeutic products.

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