Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Analgesic Balm

Abstract

This study focuses on the development and evaluation of an herbal analgesic balm that combines natural ingredients, including beeswax, petroleum jelly, methyl salicylate, camphor, and essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender. The balm is designed to provide relief from pain and inflammation, making it suitable for conditions such as headaches, backaches, sore muscles, and joint pain. Three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were prepared with varying concentrations of active ingredients, and their physical parameters, stability, and skin safety were evaluated. The results showed that formulation F3, with a higher concentration of methyl salicylate (7.5 ml) and a balanced blend of essential oils, exhibited superior analgesic potency and aromatic relief. The balm demonstrated good stability, spreadability, and washability, with no signs of phase separation or skin irritation in patch tests. The pH of the formulation was found to be suitable for skin application, ranging from 5.5 to 6.28. Overall, the herbal analgesic balm offers a promising alternative to conventional pain relief products, with potential applications in managing various types of pain and inflammation. Keywords: Analgesic, Herbal balm, Anti-inflammatory