Formulation and Evaluation of an herbal cream containing extract of Curcuma longa and Trigonella Foenum seeds Powder

Abstract

Fenugreek seeds and Curcuma Longa have antioxidant effects and contain mucilage with softening properties. It can also produce healing, whitening, moisturizing, soothing and anti-wrinkle effects on the skin. The aim of the study was to produce a stable W/O emulsion containing fenugreek seed extract using liquid paraffin oil. Fenugreek seed extract, obtained by concentrating the methanol extract of fenugreek seeds, was trapped in the internal aqueous phase of the W/O emulsion. Curcuma longa was obtained by thin layer chromatography method. The active ingredient in curcuma longa, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that are good for maintaining healthy skin. These characteristics make it a great candidate for inclusion in an old cream recipe. In the formulation process, suitable natural base ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and olive oil are chosen because they moisturise and protect the skin. Through a suitable emulsification process, curcuma longa extract is added to the cream, guaranteeing its stability and effectiveness. Stability tests are performed on the final formulation to evaluate its long-term physical, chemical, and biological properties. A base containing no active material and a formulation containing concentrated extract of fenugreek (in a concentration of 4%) in the internal aqueous phase (W/O emulsion) were prepared and stored at different accelerated conditions for a period of four weeks to predict the stability of these creams. It was found that both, the base, and the formulation, were stable at all the accelerate- ed conditions regarding colour, liquefaction, and phase separation. However, insignificant changes in the pH of base and significant changes in the pH of the formulation were observed with the passage of time. The aim of formulating the cream was to produce a cooling and glowing effect on the skin.