FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF A POLYHERBAL EXFOLIATING SCRUB CONTAINING AEGLE MARMELOS (BAEL) LEAF POWDER FOR ANTIMICROBIAL AND SKIN REJUVENATING ACTIVITY

Pharmaceutical

The present study aimed to develop a polyherbal exfoliating scrub incorporating Aegle marmelos leaf powder and to evaluate its cosmetic acceptability alongside antimicrobial and skin-refreshing properties. Bael leaves, rich in phenolics, flavonoids, and coumarins, have documented antimicrobial activity, providing strong rationale for their inclusion. Among trial formulations, F3 was selected over F4 despite F4 showing slightly higher antimicrobial zones, reflecting the principle that optimal formulations balance biological activity with spreadability, stability, non-irritancy, and overall user acceptability. Volunteer feedback indicated that the bael scrub produced desirable effects such as smoothness, freshness, and post-wash softness, aligning with the concept of skin rejuvenation. Importantly, F3 demonstrated low irritancy, suggesting that the particle size of bael powder and the gel base were well matched. The inclusion of aloe vera and glycerin likely contributed to hydration and reduced post-wash tightness, consistent with literature on herbal scrubs. Student’s t-test revealed significantly better spreadability for F3 compared to a marketed reference, highlighting its practical advantage in facial applications where gentle distribution is essential. Although chi-square analysis of irritancy outcomes did not reach statistical significance, the numerical trend favored the bael formulation. The scrub’s performance relied on functional complementarity: bael provided exfoliation and antimicrobial support, Multani mitti aided oil absorption, aloe vera offered soothing hydration, and glycerin minimized dryness. While limitations include preliminary antimicrobial testing, short stability evaluation, and small volunteer numbers, the results support Aegle marmelos leaf powder as a promising ingredient for polyherbal scrubs. Future work should explore standardized extracts, particle-size optimization, extended stability studies, and larger clinical trials.

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