Exploration of traditional oils in a modern balm formulation for topical pain management
Department of Pharmacognosy, K. B. Raval College of Pharmacy, Shertha, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences, 2025, 09(01), 001-008.
Article DOI: 10.53346/wjapls.2025.9.1.0029
Publication history:
Received on 05August 2025; revised on 28 September 2025; accepted on 01 October 2025
Abstract:
Pain remains a significant clinical and public health concern, often managed with synthetic analgesics that may produce systemic side effects with prolonged use. The current study focuses on formulating and evaluating a topical herbal balm using Vitex negundo (Nirgundi) oil and Mentha piperita (Peppermint) oil- both traditionally acclaimed for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential. Four formulations (F1–F4) were prepared by varying the concentration of base excipients while keeping the herbal oil content constant at 13% w/w each. The phytochemical profiles of the oils were confirmed through qualitative and quantitative analyses, indicating the presence of key bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. Quantitative assays revealed high phenolic and flavonoid content, further supporting the therapeutic potential. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters including pH, spread ability, consistency, washability, and stability under accelerated conditions. Among all, formulation F3 exhibited optimal spread ability, acceptable pH, ease of application, and superior stability over 30 days. The findings suggest that the herbal balm developed with Vitex negundo and Mentha piperita oils is a promising candidate for natural pain relief with improved patient compliance and minimal side effects.
Keywords:
Nirgundi Oil, Peppermint Oil; Herbal Balm; Pain Management; Topical Analgesic; Phytochemical Screening; Herbal Formulation Evaluation
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