Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Gel Containing Root Extract of Mimosa Pudica (Lajjalu)

Abstract

Introduction: Traditional medicines are a vital part of healthcare systems. Plants and plant extracts are the primary source of health treatment for majority of the global population. The present study is aimed at formulating topical gel using methanolic extract of Mimosa pudica plant. It is also known as lajjalu, belongs to the Fabaceae family. It contains mimosine and turgorin. Herbal gels have greater shelf life, non-toxic, safe, effective, eco-friendly and biocompatible.

Materials and Method: The gel was prepared using the Carbopol 934 and dried methanolic extract of lajjalu roots. Gel was evaluated for its pH, appearance and homogeneity, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, skin irritation studies and drug diffusion studies.

Results and Discussion: The gel had brownish colour with a semi-solid appearance, smooth on application, optimum viscosity, and pH values ranged from 6 to 7. The gel was homogeneous without gritty particles, evenly distributed, extrudability was good, and gel does not produce any irritation, redness on application. Drug content was 89.72%. The diffusion test resulted in good drug release.

Conclusion: The present research suggests that lajjalu gel formulation hold tremendous promise as a safe and effective topical gel. The herbal gel can be considered a potential candidate for topical applications in treating wounds, skin infections, and inflammation.