Therapeutic polyherbal soap: A natural approach for managing skin disorders

Background: Most of the commercial soaps have artificial ingredients and chemicals which may irritate and even damage the skin. There is a need for safe, effective alternatives and must be economical. Herbal extracts constituents Phyto-chemicals facilitates the appearance smoothing, body conditioning, nourishment and also exhibits the healing properties.
Aim: The present study is aimed to formulate and evaluate an herbal soap containing piper betel and moringa oleifera leaf extracts known for their antimicrobial and skin regenerative properties. 
Methodology: The ingredients involved in the formulation of Herbal soap were coconut oil, Glycerine, Moringa oleifera extract, Piper betel leaf extract, Punica granatum leaf extract, jasmine oil, sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium hydroxide (lye) and the soap was prepared by hot process method. The formulation was tested for physico chemical parameters (pH, moisture content, foaming index, foam retention time and thermal stability), FTIR compatibility and antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. 
Results and Discussion: The prepared herbal soap exhibited a skin friendly pH (7.1± 0.3), Stable foam retention (480±10s), moisture content (11%). Antimicrobial studies shown significant zone of inhibition confirming the synergistic effects of the extracts. 
Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the prepared herbal soap is cost effective, safe and possess antimicrobial potential, making it a suitable alternative to chemical based commercial soaps.