Abstract

DEVELOPMENT OF HERBAL FORMULATION FOR TREATMENT OF SKIN DISEASES

Shrikant S. Magdum*, Kiran Kulkarni and R. R. Shah

ABSTRACT

Onion (Allium cepa L., family Liliaceae) has a long history of medicinal use. The fleshy bulb that grows below the ground is used medicinally as well as for food; other parts of the plant also have a place in traditional medicine.[1] Onion is believed to have a positive effect on the circulatory system and sexual debility. It has been used as a diuretic to reduce swelling. Onion contains thiosulphinate, a compound that is effective in killing many common bacteria, including Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Externally, fresh onion juice is used to prevent bacterial and fungal infections; it can also be applied to wounds and stings on the skin.[2] Creams are topical preparations usually for application to the skin. They are also applied unto the mucous membranes such as the rectum or vagina. They are semi solid emulsions which are oil-in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) type.[3] Creams are often composed of two phases. Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions are most useful as water washable bases, whereas water-in oil (W/O) emulsions are emollient and cleansing agents. An emulsifying agent is used to disperse the aqueous phases in the oily phase.[4]

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