Abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL BASED SOAP: FORMULATION AND EVALUATION STUDY

Sejal A. Pokale*, Shamal P. Adokar, Sheikh Masood Wakilahmad, Shivani S. Kadu, Shravani M. Inkane, Tejaswini G. Malge

ABSTRACT

The growing demand for herbal and chemical-free cosmetic products has encouraged the development of phytochemical-based formulations with enhanced therapeutic benefits. The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal soap using Moringa oleifera and lemongrass essential oil as key active ingredients. Moringa oleifera is rich in phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and skin-protective properties. Lemongrass oil is well known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and refreshing fragrance. The soap was formulated using a glycerin base, followed by the incorporation of moringa extract and lemongrass oil in optimized concentrations. The prepared formulation was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters includingpH, moisture content, foam height, foam retention, hardness, and stability. The results demonstrated that the formulated soap had a skin-compatible pH, good foaming ability, and satisfactory physical stability. The presence of phytochemicals contributed to enhanced antimicrobial activity against common skin pathogens. The formulation also exhibited good cleansing efficiency and was found to be non-irritating to the skin. In conclusion, the phytochemical-based herbal soap formulated with moringa and lemongrass oil can be considered a safe, effective, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional soaps, offering both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Lemongrass oil, Herbal soap, Phytochemicals, Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant, Glycerin soap base, Skin care, Formulation, Evaluation.