World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

HERBAL PHYTOSOMAL GEL OF BOSWELLIA SERRATA BARK FOR ANTI-ACNE THERAPY: DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION

Ankita Yadav, Prem Prasad, Sanjay Kumar Kushwaha*

ABSTRACT

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorders affecting adolescents and adults worldwide. It is characterized by the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and excessive sebum production, mainly due to follicular hyperkeratinization, bacterial colonization, and inflammation. Conventional anti-acne therapies such as antibiotics, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide are widely used for treatment; however, their long-term use is often associated with adverse effects including skin irritation, dryness, allergic reactions, and antimicrobial resistance. These limitations have increased the demand for safer and more effective herbal-based therapeutic alternatives. Herbal formulations have gained considerable attention in dermatological research because of their natural origin, improved safety profile, multifunctional pharmacological activities, and better patient acceptability. The bark of Boswellia serrata contains bioactive phytoconstituents such as boswellic acids, which are known to inhibit inflammatory mediators and reduce microbial growth associated with acne pathogenesis. Despite the therapeutic potential of herbal extracts, their clinical effectiveness is often limited by poor solubility, low bioavailability, and inadequate skin penetration. Phytosomal drug delivery systems have therefore become an important strategy to overcome these challenges. Phytosomes are phospholipid-based vesicular systems that enhance the stability, permeability, and bioavailability of phytoconstituents, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy in topical applications. Incorporation of phytotomies into gel formulations further enhances skin retention, spread ability, and patient compliance, making phytosomal gels a promising approach for anti-acne therapy. The present review focuses on the development and evaluation of herbal phytosomal gel containing Boswellia serrata bark extract for anti-acne treatment. The review highlights the pathophysiology of acne vulgaris, therapeutic potential of Boswellia serrata, principles of phytosomal drug delivery, formulation strategies, characterization methods, and evaluation parameters of phytosomal gels. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the significance of herbal nanocarrier systems in modern dermatological therapy and discusses future prospects for the development of effective and safe anti-acne formulations.

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