Development and characterization of topical nanoparticulate antipsoriatic polyherbal cream

Abstract

Objective: The lack of possible cure and associated disadvantages of allopathic medicines in the topical treatment of psoriasis has led to extensive research for anti-psoriatic activities of plant-based drugs. The present study was aimed to develop topical cream formulation containing the Nanostructured Lipid Carriers of Azadirachta indica leaves extract (AE), Lawsonia inermis leaves extract (LE) and fruit extract of Mallotus philippensis (ME) and assessing the antipsoriatic activity of prepared cream formulation. Methods: The Drug loaded NLCs were prepared via hot homogenization technique and incorporated into the water in oil (w/o) cream base that was prepared by the emulsification method. Evaluation of cream formulation included advanced preclinical trials using Rat Ultraviolet Ray-B photodermatitis and Mousetail method, anti-lipid peroxidation assay, nitric oxide scavenging activity, cytotoxicity and DNA fragmentation on HaCat cell lines to ascertain antipsoriatic potential and in vitro drug diffusion. Results: In spite of the low amount of the drug loading in NLCs their potency was much higher as displayed in Advanced Preclinical studies and cell line studies for psoriasis indicating the suitability of NLCs loaded creams for skin applications due to their various desirable effects on the skin. Occlusive properties of the prepared NLC on the skin provide an increase in drug penetration particularly via skin moisturization. The in vitro drug diffusion studies suggest the prolonged and almost complete release of AE, LE and ME from NLC based cream up to 24 h that was found to be 81.24±0.51%, 74.31±0.25% and 70.43±0.78% respectively. The literature survey supports the novelty of such topical anti-psoriatic polyherbal nanoparticulate cream. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the AE, LE and ME loaded NLC based cream can be used for prolonged topical delivery of drugs for the management of Psoriasis.