Polyherbal Ethosomal Gel in Dermatology: A Review on Formulation, Evaluation, and Clinical Perspectives

Abstract

Modern herbal medicine and the developed drug delivery systems are current possibilities in dermatological practice. The review is concerned with the formulation and testing of a polyherbal ethosomal gel using Curcuma caesia and Aloe Vera, which have topical skin care applications. Lipid vesicular carriers were chosen in the form of ethosomes, which improve the penetration and delivery of macromolecules to the skin because of their high ethanol concentration. The formulation using the cold method was optimized based on vesicle size, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spreadability, and drug content. Curcuma caesia has a strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound healing effect, whereas Aloe vera has moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and skin regenerative effects, and there is a synergetic effect of them as a therapeutic action. The FTIR results and in vitro rates of diffusion showed the successful release of drugs and interrelated compatibility of the active components and excipients. Clinical orientations show increased patient compliance, decreased negative impact, and open possibilities of conditions in long-term skin diseases. However, commercialization remains a challenge for stability, scale production, and regulation standardization. The results show that polyherbal ethosomal gels have the potential to be safe, easily acceptable, and commercially viable as alternatives to synthetic topical agents, as the world is demanding safe, effective, and naturally derived skin care products.