Emulgel: A Promising Technology for Topical Delivery of Herbal Extracts

Abstract

Topicaldrug delivery is a remarkable but arduous task due to the inherent barriersystem of the skin. More so, only a narrow range of drugs are available fortopical use because most drugs are hydrophobic in nature and this restrictstheir permeation and absorption into the skin. Herbal remedies have been usedin the treatment of various diseases including skin diseases for centuries and aregradually becoming acceptable as treatment options however, they are mostlyhydrophobic. Growing interests in combating these issues have led formulatingscientists to develop drug delivery systems like emulgels which are goodcarriers of hydrophobic drug molecules. Emulgels are a mixture of an emulsion anda gel, where drugs are incorporated into globules and solubilized, enhancingdrug absorption from the skin. They are easily spread over the skin, easilyremoved from the skin, possess emollient properties, are non-greasy, cosmeticallyappealing and have good penetrating abilities. This review highlights theimportance of emulgels in the delivery of herbal extracts/constituents, the methodsof formulations and an overview of herbal emulgel formulations that have beenexploited by different researchers. Emulgels have proven to be good prospectsin enhancing the topical delivery of herbals and improving the treatment of skininfections.