International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 13 Issue: 01 | Jan 2026
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL ANTIMICROBIALOINTMENTUSINGEUPHORBIAHIRTA EXTRACT FOR SKIN INFECTIONS Dr. K.L. Senthilkumar1, S.Vignesh(2003)2, S.Vidhya3, S.Vignesh(2004)4 1 Principal, Sri Vijay Vidyalaya College of Pharmacy, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (India)
2, 3, 4, B. Pharm, Students, Sri Vijay Vidyalaya College of Pharmacy, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (India)
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Abstract- Herbal medicines play an important role in the management of skin infections due to their efficacy and minimal
adverse effects. Euphorbia hirta Linn., a well-known medicinal plant, has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial potential. In this study, a herbal antimicrobial ointment incorporating a hydro alcoholic leaf extract of Euphorbia hirta was formulated and evaluated. Three ointment formulations (F1–F3) containing different concentrations of the plant extract were prepared and subjected to physicochemical characterization and stability studies. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, and saponins. The antimicrobial efficacy of the formulations was assessed against selected bacterial pathogens using the agar well diffusion technique. Among the formulations, F3 exhibited the highest zone of inhibition, indicating superior antimicrobial activity. The findings suggest that Euphorbia hirta–based ointment has promising potential as a topical antimicrobial agent for the treatment of skin infections.
1. INTRODUCTION Euphorbia hirta Linn. (Family Euphorbiaceous) is a small annual herb widely found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in India and Asia. It has long been used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections, wounds, gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Phytochemical studies show that the plant contains flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, and triterpenoids, which contribute to its antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial, and antiviral activities. The antimicrobial potential of Euphorbiahirta has attracted interest for herbal topical formulations. Herbal ointments are preferred due to their safety, low cost, and minimal side effects. Ointments provide prolonged skin contact, ease of application, and localized drug action. Euphorbiahirta ointment is commonly used for wounds, cuts, boils, skin infections, minor burns, eczema, and inflammatory skin conditions. The ointment contains an extract of fresh or dried Euphorbiahirta leaves incorporated into a suitable ointment base. It is applied externally once or twice daily. Proper storage in a cool, dry place is necessary, and use should be discontinued if irritation or allergic reactions occur. This topical formulation allows localized antimicrobial and wound-healing effects while minimizing systemic side effects.
Advantage:
Natural antimicrobial – fights bacteria & fungi Reduces redness, swelling & pain Boosts wound healing Cheap, easy to find & eco-friendly Less risk of antibiotic resistance
Disadvantage:
May cause skin irritation or allergies Effectiveness varies by extraction Limited human clinical trials to fully confirm its safety and efficacy Shorter shelf life than synthetic ointments High doses may be toxic Act slower than synthetic antibiotics, especially in severe skin infections.
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