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Background: Arctostaphylosuva-ursi(AUU) being rich in polyphenols and arbutin is known to have promising biological activities and can be a potential candidate as a cosmaceutical. Ethosomes encourage the formation of lamellar-shaped vesicles with improved solubility and entrapment of many drugs including plant extracts. Objective: The objective of this work was to develop an optimized nanostructured ethosomal gel formulation loaded with AUU extract and evaluated for skin rejuvenation and depigmentation. Methods: AUU extract was tested for phenolic and flavonoid content, radical scavenging potential, reducing power activity, and in-vitro SPF (sun protection factor) estimation. AUU loaded 12 formulations were prepared and characterized by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), vesicular size, zeta potential, and Entrapment Efficiency (%EE). The optimized formulation was subjected to noninvasive in-vivo investigations after incorporating it into the gel system and ensuring its stability and skin permeation. Results: Ethosomal vesicles were spherical in shape and Zeta size, zeta potential, PDI (Polydispersity Index), percentages of EE and in-vitro skin permeation of optimized formulation (F3) were found to be 114.7nm, -18.9mV, 0.492,97.51±0.023%,and 79.88±0.013% respectively. AUU loaded ethosomal gel formulation was stable physicochemically and exhibited non-Newtonian behavior rheologically. Moreover, it significantly reduced skin erythema, melanin as well as sebum level and improved skin hydration and elasticity. Conclusion: A stable AUU based ethosomal gel formulation could be a better vehicle for phytoextracts than conventional formulations for cosmeceutical applications such as for skin rejuvenation and depigmentation.

Spinacia oleracea (SO) exhibits radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition activity indicating potential as a depigmenting agent.To develop and characterize a stable emulsified system containing SO extract through ultra-high pressure homogenization, evaluate skin permeability, and enumerate in vivo performance in terms of melanin index, skin spots analysis, and related skin physiological parameters.Free radical scavenging and tyrosinase inhibition potential of SO extract was quantified through DPPH radical scavenging and mushroom tyrosinase inhibition assay, respectively. Six SO extract loaded ultra-high pressure emulsified systems (UHSO) were developed using ultra-high pressure homogenizer and assessed for size and polydispersity index (PDI). Among the prepared formulations, the optimized formulation (UHSO6) was subjected to 90 days stability studies performed at 8°C, 25°C, 40°C, and 40°C+75% RH (relative humidity) for organoleptic features, pH, and rheology. Ex vivo skin permeability studies were performed on abdominal skin from male albino rat. Changes in skin physiological parameters were evaluated in healthy female volunteers (n = 13) for 12 weeks utilizing mexameterSO extract exhibited promising antioxidant (88±0.0096%) and tyrosinase inhibition potential (90.6 ± 0.0015 mg of Kojic Acid Eq/g of extract). Optimized UHSO was found to be stable with respect to stability evaluation, globule size (1110 nm), zeta potential (-27.6), and PDI (0.34). Ex vivo skin permeation of UHSO was significantly higher than SO loaded coarse emulsion. Moreover, the formulation showed a significant decrease in skin melanin, spot count, and spot % area, whereas skin hydration index was improved significantly.Stable SO extract loaded emulsion system was successfully developed by a novel, cost-effective technique of ultra-high pressure homogenization which showed improved performance in terms of skin permeation and other skin physiological parameters.

Plant extracts with rich ascorbic acid contents have greater antioxidant capability; extensively employed in skin beautifying products and protect skin from detrimental photodamaging environmental effects. Brassica oleraceae is having a substantial prospective toward cosmeceuticals owed by its profound activity against oxidation.To develop an effective topical ethosomal gel loaded with Brassica oleraceae leaves extract with significant antioxidant activity.Valuation of antioxidant capability of plant leaves extract by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and quantification of ascorbic acid was done through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Ethosomes were prepared by cold method. Optimized suspension containing extract was incorporated in 2% Carbopol gel (test) along with extract solution (control). Noninvasive in vivo studies were performed for final product to assess its effects on skin by measuring melanin and erythema, sebum level, elasticity, moistness level, facial pores count and their area, skin wrinkling, and smoothness.Brassica oleraceae (red cabbage) leaves extract exhibited significant antioxidant potential (85.64 ± 1.28%) with 14.22 μg/g of ascorbic acid; expressed prominent cosmetic effects in terms of skin melanin, erythema, sebum, elasticity, hydration, facial pores, wrinkles, and smoothness when incorporated in ethosomes. ANOVA test also exhibited positive significant (p ≤ 0.05) effects on skin.Brassica oleraceae extract is a strong antioxidant with remarkable dermocosmetic benefits for skin.

In recent years, the demands of depigmenting agents in cosmetics have been increased to treat skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation and melasma. Tyrosinase is a major enzyme involve in hyperpigmentation. Kojic acid dipalimate (KAD) is an ester derivative of kojic acid and exhibit excellent tyrosinase inhibiting activity on human skin.To develop and characterize a novel topical delivery system for KAD by using ethosomes and their in vitro, in vivo characterization for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.Different KAD loaded ethosomal suspensions were prepared using soy phosphatidylcholine, ethanol, propylene glycol, and water with cold method. These formulations were evaluated for size, zeta potential, Polydispersity index, entrapment efficiency, FTIR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Afterward, the stability of optimized gel was checked and the in vivo studies were carried out in order to evaluate the skin benefits.The optimized formulation has zeta potential, size, and entrapment efficiency of -23.4 mV, 148 nm, and 90.0008%, respectively. SEM results showed vesicles were spherical in shape. Ethosomal gel had a good stability at lower temperature (8, 25°C). In addition, ethosomal gel gives significant decrease in skin melanin, erythema, and sebum level while it causes improvement in skin hydration level and elasticity during non-invasive in vivo studies.The overall findings indicated that the prepared KAD loaded ethosomal formulation was stable and provides deep penetration of KAD into the skin. It offers a promising therapeutic approach for use in skin hyperpigmentation as it has skin whitening and moisturizing effects.

Multiple emulsions have the ability to incorporate both lipophilic and hydrophilic actives in the same preparation and facilitate permeation of active ingredients through skin. The current study was aimed at formulating niacinamide/ferulic acid-loaded stable multiple emulsion (MNF) and itsBoth the compounds were evaluated for their radical scavenging potential by the DPPH method and FTIR analysis. Then, placebo and active formulations were prepared using a double emulsification method and were investigated for stability testing (changes in color, odor, and liquefaction on centrifugation, pH, and globule size) for a period of three months. Afterwards, MNF was investigated forResults demonstrated that MNF showed a non-Newtonian behavior rheologically and both MNF and placebo were stable at different storage conditions. Entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, and zeta size were 93.3%, -5.88 mV, and 0.173 It is evident that niacinamide and ferulic acid can be successfully incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion which has potent cosmeceutical effects on human skin.

Skin care formulations with antioxidants are being widely explored for their benefits to human skin. The purpose of this study was to formulate a stable w/o emulsion containing anthocyanin derived from Malus dosmestica fruit extract and to further explore its beneficial effects on normal human skin. Anthocyanin was extracted using various solvents from the peel of Malus dosmestica fruit. w/o creams containing anthocyanin has been prepared and systematically characterized for various physiochemical properties in terms of stability at varying conditions of storage. An efficacy study has been carried out on 12 male healthy Asian subjects to determine effects of anthocyanin on skin melanin, erythema, skin moisture, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and on skin sebum. Solvent system containing methanol/acetone/water (3.5: 3.5: 3 v/v/v) including 1% formic acid established a best recovery of anthocyanin from fruit peel. W/O emulsions presented promising stability profile when kept at different storage conditions over 90 days period. All skin parameters studied, anthocyanin has been found more efficacious (p0.05) for its effects on skin melanin and erythema content of skin. It has been shown that a topical application of anthocyanin derived from Malus domestica has substantial potential for human skin system and needs some patient oriented studies could warrant its potential for damaged skin.

Background Phenolic and flavonoid compounds found in plants alleviate the photo-damaging skin conditions by playing a major role in skin rejuvenation. Aims The aim of the study was to explore the cosmeceutical effects of Cinnamomum tamala extract. Objective Recent research was aimed to quantify phenols and flavonoids in the natural extract of C tamala leaves, to develop its phyto-cosmetic emulgel and to assess effects of emulgel on healthy human skin. Method Phenols and flavonoids in C tamala (CT) extract were quantified by using ELISA assay. Emulgel formulation loaded with 4% C tamala (CT emulgel) was developed, and its cosmetic effects were evaluated on the cheeks of 13 healthy female test volunteers by comparing with placebo (base). Facial parameters including melanin, erythema, sebum, and visible facial pores (size and area) were studied by using Mexameter® , Sebumeter® , and VisioFace® at regular interval for 90 days. Results Total phenolic content and total flavonoids content of C tamala leaves extract were found to be 73.08 ± 0.0078 mg GAE/g and 52.63 ± 0.0060 mg QE/g CT extract respectively. As compared to placebo (base), CT emulgel was found to be significantly (P ≤ .05) effective in minimizing skin photo-damaging effects by reducing the levels of melanin, erythema, and sebum and size and count of both fine and large facial pores. Conclusion Cinnamomum tamala leaves extract, being a rich source of phenols and flavonoids minimized the photo-damaging effects by reducing skin melanin, erythema, and excess sebum; improving the skin imperfections by reducing facial pore count and area as assessed by advanced imaging and bioengineering techniques.

Smilax china (SC) is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used for a number of pathological disorders. In current study, its various fractions were assessed for radical scavenging, phenoli...

BACKGROUND Antioxidants are widely used in cosmetic products as they have beneficial effects on skin and prevent skin from harmful effects of environment. Albizia lebbeck has a significant potential to be used in cosmeceuticals due to its antioxidant activity. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to formulate a stable and effective o/w emulsion-based emulgel containing Albizia lebbeck bark extract, which have considerable antioxidant activity. METHODOLOGY Antioxidant activity of Albizia lebbeck bark extract was determined by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method. Emulgel containing 3% extract was developed by mixing o/w emulsion in Carbopol gel along with a placebo emulgel without extract (base). In vitro evaluation of these emulgels, that is, liquefaction, color, phase separation, centrifugation, and pH change were carried out for a period of 8 weeks at different storage conditions, that is, 8oC, 25oC, 40oC, and 40oC & 75% relative humidity (RH). In vivo evaluation of emulgels was carried out on 13 healthy female volunteers by measuring various parameters of skin, that is, melanin level, erythema level, moisture content, sebum content, and elasticity at regular time intervals after applying emulgel (both base and test formulation) for 8 weeks. RESULTS Antioxidant activity of Albizia lebbeck bark extract was 84.7%. Both emulgels (base and test formulation) were stable at all storage conditions. Statistical analysis showed that test formulation produced significant effects (p

Plant-derived polyphenols are known to have promising biological activities including antioxidant and antityrosinase and may be a potential candidate for anti-dermatoheliotic remedy. The present study was performed to investigate the polyphenolic contents of Mimosa pudica (MP) seed extract and its anti-dermatoheliotic potential using non-invasive biophysical techniques after developing a stable topical emulgel formulation. Moreover, its in-vitro cytotoxicity was also evaluated using normal Human keratinocytes (HaCat cells) to rule out any cellular incompatibility. The results revealed that MP seed extract, constituted with a number of polyphenolic compounds, has very good antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase potential. There were significant positive effects (p ≤ 0.05) invoked by its topical emulgel formulation on various dermatoheliotic associated skin parameters like erythema, melanin, elasticity, hydration, and sebum as compared to placebo. In the meantime, it was also found to be biocompatible and did not show any effect on HaCat cell viability and structure. In conclusion, the topical emulgel preparation loaded with MP seed extract could be a great strategy to deal with dematoheliosis.

Several plants found rich in flavonoid, polyphenols, and antioxidants reported antiaging, oppose inflammation and carcinogenic properties but have rarely been applied in dermatology. The present study was an active attempt to formulate a stable phytocosmetic emulsion system loaded with 2% pre-concentrated Prosopis cineraria bark extract, aiming to revive facial skin properties. In order to obtain potent therapeutic activities, we first prepared extracts of stem, leaves, and bark and screen them on basis of phenolic, flavonoids contents and antioxidant, antibacterial, lipoxygenase and tyrosinase inhibition activities. Furthermore, cytocompatibility of the extract was also determined prior starting in vivo investigations. Then the in vivo performance of 2% bark extract loaded emulsion formulation was determined by using non-invasive probe cutometer and elastometer with comparison to base formulation. The preliminary experiment showed that bark extract has a significant amount of phenolic and flavonoid compounds with eminent antioxidant potential. Furthermore, indicated an efficient antibacterial, lipoxygenase, and tyrosinase enzyme inhibition activities. Importantly, the bark extract did not induce any toxicity or apoptosis, when incubated with HaCat cells. Moreover, the in vivo results showed the formulation (size 3 μm) decreased the skin melanin, erythema and sebum contents up to 2.1-,2.7-and 79%, while increased the skin hydration and elasticity up to 2-folds and 22% as compared to the base, respectively. Owing to enhanced therapeutic effects the phytocosmetic formulation proved to be a potential skin whitening, moisturizer, anti-acne, anti-wrinkle, anti-aging therapy and could actively induce skin rejuvenation and resurfacing.

Background Cosmetics are the products used to beautify the skin. Emulsion is a fine dispersion of two or more immiscible liquids. Sphaeranthus indicus is claimed to be used for skin beautification in folk medicine. Multiple emulsion was formulated containing the extract of S indicus flowers. Aims This research study indicates that extract of S indicus flowers contains sufficient amount of polyphenols and also possess good antioxidant activity with mushroom tyrosinase inhibition activity. Method Further, stable multiple emulsion was developed and stability testing was performed for 180 days by keeping the multiple emulsion at 8°C ± 1, 25°C ± 1, 40°C ± 1, and 40°C ± 1 with 75% ± 1 RH. Parameters checked were color change, phase distribution, viscosity, droplet size and size distribution, pH determination, and electrical conductivity. Sun protection factor (SPF) was determined which also showed promising results. Skin testing on human volunteers was done for 3 months after biosafety profiling of the most stable multiple emulsion. Results This also showed remarkable effects. Skin erythema, melanin, and sebum were reduced. Skin hydration and elasticity were increased. There was also reduction in the number of skin large and small skin pores. Skin spot area was also reduced by the use of multiple emulsion loaded with S indicus flower extract. ANOVA test showed that all the effects produced on skin were significant, ie, P ≤ .05. Conclusion A stable multiple emulsion was developed which produced significant cosmetic effects on human skin.

Solar radiations trigger the physiological alteration in skin which progress toward photoaging. Sunscreens are known to be effective against the photodamaging effects of sunlight. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which aging signs caused by real-life sunlight exposure could be avoided by comparing various parameters between sun-exposed and sun-protected skin using noninvasive probes. Female volunteers (n = 11) after getting their consent were provided with marketed sunscreen product to apply onto their skin for 6 months. Measurements were scheduled every 15 days from the baseline reading for 6 months. Cutometer, Mexameter and Corneometer were used for evaluation of facial skin parameters. Clinical evaluations showed the effects of sunlight exposure on different skin parameters by comparing sun-protected and unprotected skin, where Gross elasticity (R2), Net elasticity (R5), Viscoelasticity (R6) and Biological elasticity (R7) showed insignificant results, while Hydration, Melanin and Erythema showed significant results. Sun-exposed skin presented 0.72%, 0.66%, 0.77%, 1.39%, 1.99%, 2.01% and 3.15% changes in R2, R5, R6 and R7, melanin, erythema and hydration, respectively, which were potentially prevented by sunscreen application. Premature aging is inhibited by following photoprotective regimen on routine basis, emphasizing the potential benefit of sunscreen against early aging signs.

The skin is fortified with a setup of lipophilic and hydrophilic, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems. Ascorbyl palmitate (AP) and sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) are reported as lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidants, respectively used for skin care. Present study was aimed to assess the combined AP (in oil phase) and SAP (in aqueous phase) via multiple emulsion (ME1) for controlling sebum secretions in healthy human females. FTIR analysis of AP and SAP was performed for identification. Multiple emulsions (ME1 and control) were prepared and analyzed for physical stability. Antioxidant activities of AP, SAP as well as ME1 (with combination of these compounds) were determined by DPPH method. 11 female volunteers were included in a single-blinded, placebo-controlled, split-face comparative study. Volunteers were instructed to apply ME1 on left cheek while control (without AP and SAP) on right cheek, for a period of 90 days. A non-invasive photometric device (Sebumeter®) was used for the measurement of sebum secretions on both sides of the face with subsequent time intervals. A good antioxidant activity of ME1 was observed. ME1 treatments reduced significant facial sebum secretions as compared with control/placebo treatments. It was concluded that combined AP and SAP supplementations to skin proved a promising choice for controlling facial sebum secretions and could be evaluated for undesired oily skin and acne reductions for beautifying the facial appearance.

Smilax china (SC) is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used for a number of pathological disorders. In current study, its various fractions were assessed for radical scavenging, phenolic, flavonoid content and enzyme inhibition. The methanolic extract (MSC) of SC was subjected to fractionation using different solvents including n-hexane, benzene, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. Results revealed that ethyl acetate fraction showed maximum phenolic (101.81 ± 0.13 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (96.80 ± 0.39 mg QE/g) content with maximum radical scavenging potential (82.51 ± 0.18%, IC50=104.45 µg/ml) as well as urease (82.63 ± 0.79%), tyrosinase (81.30 ± 0.41%) and Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) (62.47 ± 0.76%) inhibition at 0.5 mg/ml. Whereas, maximum α-Glucosidase (87.56 ± 0.13%) and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition (82.34 ± 0.64%) was exhibited by n-hexane and benzene fractions, respectively. Present study has revealed the promising radical scavenging, phenolic, flavonoid and enzyme inhibitory potential of various fractions of SC extract. Thus, the study is a step forward towards evidence-based phyto-medicine.

Use of transdermal patches can evade many issues associated with oral drug delivery, such as first-pass hepatic metabolism, enzymatic digestion attack, drug hydrolysis and degradation in acidic media, drug fluctuations, and gastrointestinal irritation. This article reviews various transdermal patches available in the market, types, structural components, polymer role, and the required assessment tools. Although transdermal patches have medical applications for smoking cessation, pain relief, osteoporosis, contraception, motion sickness, angina pectoris, and cardiac disorders, advances in formulation development are ongoing to make transdermal patches capable of delivering more challenging drugs. Transdermal patches can be tailored and developed according to the physicochemical properties of active and inactive components, and applicability for long-term use. Therefore, a number of chemical approaches and physical techniques for transdermal patch development are under investigation.

Objective The current research work was initiated to develop anti-aging phytocosmetic formulation of phytoantioxidant, to evaluate their effect on human skin, and to link R parameters of skin with skin sebum and aging. Methods According to COLIPA, 10 healthy male volunteers, aged between 20 and 30 years, having no skin infection or other hypersensitivity disorders, were included in the study. The effect of formulation was evaluated on skin pores and skin elasticity on cheeks for 90 days at regular interval. Various parameters of visible facial pores were assessed using the Skin VisioFace®, Cutometer®, Elastometer®, and Sebumeter®. These data were compared and correlated to examine the possible relationship between visible facial pores, skin elasticity, and skin sebum. Results From R0 to R9, R0, R5, and R9 were negatively correlated with elasticity while R7 shows a positive correlation with elasticity. R7 parameter of Cutometer® was negatively correlated with facial large pores (r = -0.337, P = 0.033). R9 parameter of Cutometer® was significantly positively correlated with facial large pores (r = 0.54, P = 0.000). Conclusion We could assume that the enhancement of skin elasticity would be the fundamental strategies in the prevention of size and count of visible facial pores (fine and large) by the application of formulation containing natural compounds.

Objectives The objective of this work was to develop W/O/W emulsions with different concentration of paraffin oil, lipophilic (cetyl dimethicone copolyol) and hydrophilic emulsifiers (polysorbate 80) and to check their stability at different storage conditions. Methods Approximately, 20 formulations (W/O/W) multiple emulsions were prepared, and their stability was checked at different storage conditions for the period of 30 days. Stability of some multiple emulsions ME12, ME13, ME14, ME19 and ME20 was also checked with carbomer as viscosity-enhancing agent. Microscopic analysis for droplet size determination and rheological characterization of most stable multiple emulsions, that is, ME20 were also performed. Results It was observed that stability of multiple emulsion increases with the addition of gelling agent. Formulation (ME20) with 13.6% paraffin oil, 2.4% cetyl dimethicone copolyol and 0.8% polysorbate 80 was found more stable at 25°C and 40°C for the period of 30 days. Rheological analysis indicated a decrease in viscosity with the passage of time, while droplet size analysis indicated an increase in droplet size with the passage of time. Conclusion As a conclusion of this work, a stable multiple emulsion with 13.6% paraffin oil, 2.4% cetyl dimethicone copolyol and 0.8% polysorbate 80 can be formulated and can be further studied for any active ingredient for cosmetic purposes. Resume Objectif L'objectif des travaux en cours est de developper des emulsions W/O/W avec differentes concentrations d'huile de paraffine, d’emulsifiants lipophile (cetyldimethicone copolyol) et hydrophile (polysorbate 80), et de verifier leur stabilite a differentes conditions de stockage. Methode Environ 20 formulations (W/O/W) emulsions multiples ont ete faites et leur stabilite a ete verifiee a differentes conditions de stockage pour la periode de 30 jours. La stabilite de certaines emulsions multiples stables (ME12, ME13, ME14, ME19 et ME20 a egalement ete verifiee par l'addition d'un carbomer et de la triethanolamine comme agents augmentant la viscosite (gelifiants). L'analyse au microscope pour determiner la taille des gouttelettes et de la caracterisation rheologique de l’ emulsion multiple le plus stable (ME20) a egalement ete effectuee. Resultat Il a ete observe que la stabilite des emulsions multiples augmente avec l'addition d’ un agent gelifiant. La formulation Me 20) avec 13.6% d'huile de paraffine, 2.4% de cetyl dimethicone copolyol et 0.8% de polysorbate 80 a ete trouvee etre plus stable a 25°C. a 40°C pendant la periode de 30 jours. L'analyse rheologique a indique la diminution de la viscosite avec le passage du temps; l'analyse de la taille des gouttelettes a indique une augmentation de la taille des gouttelettes avec le passage du temps. Conclusion En conclusion de ce travail, une emulsion multiple stable avec 13.6% d'huile de paraffine, de 2.4% cetyldimethicone copolyol et 0.8% de polysorbate 80 peut etre formulee et peut etre etudiee ulterieurement pour un ingredient actif a des fins cosmetiques.

The objective of this study was to assess the improvement in knowledge and attitude of Pharmacy student towards diabetes by implementing one week long education program. Study design: Study was conducted between April 25, 2011 to April 29, 2011 which engaged the 3rd professional year Pharm. D. students comprising two groups: experimental and control groups. Lectures and visual presentations on diabetic education and practice were conducted for five days. Three surveys were performed on two groups i.e. non intervened control, non- intervened experimental and intervened experimental surveys. Questionnaire was used as survey tool comprising of 46 questions under ten categories. Results: Scores in all diabetic knowledge aspect was increased after education intervention and was significantly (P

Background: This study aimed to formulate a water-in-oil emulsion (formulation) of Terminalia chebula versus its vehicle (base) as control, and investigate its ef

Background and aims: We studied longterm application of cream containing green tea extract, to obtain knowledge of its effects on epidermal mechanics by 2-mm diameter Cutometer probe. Methods: Using this non-invasive device, we assessed the effects of green tea extract cream on skin mechanical properties. Healthy male volunteers (n=10) were included in this study, which lasted 60 days. The biomechanical properties of the skin were examined by a non-invasive suction device (Cutometer) and the cheeks were defined as the test area. Results: Statistically significant (p

This study was aimed to depict potential effects of stable formulation (water in oil emulsion), containing 3% green tea (Camellia sinensis L) extract on skin sebum production in healthy human volunteers.For this purpose formulation was designed using 3 % ethanolic green tea extract and Abil’EM90 was used as an emulsifier. Formulation was applied to the cheeks of healthy human volunteers (n=10) for a period of 8 weeks. Measurements for skin sebum production were considered using Sebumeter MPA 5. Results were compiled and any effect produced by the formulation was justified statistically. It was observable that statistically significant (p < 0.5 %) results were found for skin sebum production after long term application of the formulation. 3% formulation of green tea extract was ideal in all aspects and can be experienced in skin disorders like acne to further investigate its effects in unhealthy volunteers.

Glycine max, known as the soybean or soya bean, is a species of legume native to East Asia. Soya beans contain many functional components including phenolic acids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids (quercetin, genistein, and daidzein), small proteins (Bowman-Birk inhibitor, soybean trypsin inhibitor) tannins, and proanthocyanidins. Soybean seeds extract and fresh soymilk fractions have been reported to possess the cosmeceutical and dermatological benefits such as anti-inflammatory, collagen stimulating effect, potent anti-oxidant scavenging peroxyl radicals, skin lightening effect and protection against UV radiation. Thus, present review attempts to give a short overview on dermatological and cosmeceutical studies of soybean and its bioactive compounds.

The present study is about to prepare stable cream of water-in-oil emulsion containing extracts of Crocus sativus against its base (without extracts) taken as control, to determine its stability on different storage conditions and effects on skin moisture contents and transepidermal water loss. The formulation contains 3% Crocus sativus (Saffron) concentrated extracts, and the base containing no extract, were formulated. Different stability tests were done on samples, which placed at 8°C, 25°C, 40°C and 40°C with 75% relative humidity, for 4 week period. These formulations (Creams) were applied on the cheeks of human volunteers for 8week period. To evaluate any effect produced by these formulations different skin parameters were monitored every week. The significant results of this study explored the fact that water-in-oil emulsion topical cream of saffron formulated from Crocus sativus extract has absolute physical stability at different storage conditions. The increase in skin moisture contents and changes in transepidermal water loss were significant (p0.05) with respect to base and formulation respectively. Topical cream of Crocus sativus showed significant moisturizing effects on human skin.

Emulsões múltiplas complexas possuem excelente habilidade de agregar grandes quantidades de agentes cosméticos funcionais. Este estudo teve por objetivo encapsular grandes volumes de chá verde em uma emulsão múltipla clássica e comparar sua estabilidade com a emulsão múltipla sem o extrato do chá verde. Emulsões múltiplas são desenvolvidas usando cetil dimeticona copoliol como emulsificante lipofílico e o clássico polissorbato-80 como emulsificante hidrofílico. As emulsões múltiplas foram avaliadas por meio de vários aspectos fisico-químicos como condutividade, pH, análise microscópica e reologia. Estas características foram observadas por um período de 30 dias sob diferentes condições de armazenamento. Testes de proteção da pele in vivo e in vitro foram realizados para ambos os tipos de emulsões testadas, i.e. com o ativo em estudo (MeA) e sem ativo (MeB). Ambas as formulações apresentaram características comparáveis no que diz respeito aos diferentes fatores físico-químicos avaliados sob diferentes condições de armazenamento. A análise reológica mostrou que as formulações apresentaram comportamento pseudo-plástico sob contínuo estresse de cisalhamento. Os resultados dos testes in vivo e in vitro sobre a proteção da pele revelaram que a formulação ativa promoveu efeitos comparáveis à formulação controle. Nossos dados mostraram que emulsões múltiplas estáveis poderiam ser escolhas promissoras para a aplicação tópica do chá verde. Entretanto, a fórmula das emulsões múltiplas apresentadas neste estudo precisam ser melhoradas no que diz respeito ao pH, condutividade e viscosidade aparente. Complex multiple emulsions have an excellent ability to fill large volumes of functional cosmetic agents. This study was aimed to encapsulate large volume of green tea in classical multiple emulsion and to compare its stability with a multiple emulsion without green tea extract. Multiple emulsions were developed using Cetyl dimethicone copolyol as lipophilic emulsifier and classic polysorbate-80 as hydrophilic emulsifier. Multiple emulsions were evaluated for various physicochemical aspects like conductivity, pH, microscopic analysis, rheology and these characteristics were followed for a period of 30 days in different storage conditions. In vitro and in vivo skin protection tests were also performed for both kinds of multiple emulsions i.e. with active (MeA) and without active (MeB). Both formulations showed comparable characteristics regarding various physicochemical characteristics in different storage conditions. Rheological analysis showed that formulations showed pseudo plastic behavior upon continuous shear stress. Results of in vitro and in vivo skin protection data have revealed that the active formulation has comparable skin protection effects to that of control formulation. It was presumed that stable multiple emulsions could be a promising choice for topical application of green tea but multiple emulsions presented in this study need improvement in the formula, concluded on the basis of pH, conductivity and apparent viscosity data.

Purpose: To formulate stable water in oil (W/O) emulsion containing hydroalcoholic crude extract of Ziziphus mauritiana leaves for skin rejuvenation. Methods: Placebo (base) without any plant extract and formulation with 4 % Ziziphus mauritiana extract were prepared by mixing. Samples of the emulsions were subjected to varying storage conditions, i.e., 8, 25, 40 o C and 40 o C + 75 % relative humidity for a period of 4 weeks to predict their stability. During this period, stability parameters, including liquefaction, phase separation, color, electrical conductivity, centrifugation and pH were monitored at specified time intervals. Skin rejuvenation was evaluated using 13 healthy human volunteers over a period of 8 weeks. During this period, various skin parameters such as erythema, melanin level, moisture content, elasticity and sebum content of the skin were evaluated at specified intervals. Results: Both the active formulation and placebo were stable in terms of liquifaction, phase separation and color at all the storage conditions of temperature and humidity. Active formulation showed statistically significant ( p 0.05). Both active and placebo formulations changed skin elasticity and erythema significantly ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: It is evident from the findings that the leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana possesses antiaging properties as well as exert skin lightening, moisturizing and viscoelastic effects on human skin. Keywords: Ziziphus mauritiana , Melanin, Erythema, Sebum, Skin-tlightening, Moistirizing, Anti-aging

Diabetes mellitus occurs throughout the world but is more common in developed countries. More than 150 million people were found with diabetes in 2004. In 2005, there were about 20.8 million people with diabetes in United State alone. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately 6.2 million were unaware that they have diabetes. To focus on the adverse effects of drugs prescribed for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, a search about data regarding side effects of drugs used in the treatment of diabetes was made using “pubmed”, “medline” and “google” published during 1970 to 2011. These drugs included: insulin, metformin, glibenclamide and glimpiride. Search was made by using the terms given in “keywords” and some other terms given in article. Eighty research articles of these drugs were found. The side effects of these drugs were compared with each other to avoid duplication of data. Out of 20 articles of each drug, percentage of hypoglycemic effect produced by insulin, glibenclamide, glimpiride and metformin was 90, 80, 40 and 0%, respectively, while hypersensitivity reactions showed a percentage of 50, 15, 10 and 5%, respectively. Percentage of hepato-toxicity produced by these drugs was 0, 35, 10 and 10%, respectively. Only metformin produced lactic acidosis and vitamin B12 deficiency and percentage of these effects are 60 and 30%, respectively. It is necessary to focus on the side effects of the drugs prescribed for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Key words: Diabetes mellitus, insulin, glibenclamide, glimpiride, metformin, side effects.

Pharmaceutical preparations for the treatment of skin conditions and skin care are usually supplied in the form of emulsions. This pharmaceutical dosage form is thermodynamically unstable and must be stabilized by the addition of emulsifying agent. Emulsified systems range from lotions having comparatively low viscosity to creams which are more viscous. There are two basic types of emulsions, that is, oil in water (O/W) and water in oil (W/O). In addition to these two types, a relatively complex emulsion, called multiple emulsions can also be formulated. Emulsions generally have certain advantages over other dosage forms as the drug solubilized may be more bioavailable. Moreover, gastrointestinal problems and first pass metabolic effect are also avoided. Key words: Pharmaceutical, emulsions, viscosity, skin, oil in water (O/W), water in oil (W/O).

This study was intended to explore the effects of a topical cream (w/o emulsion) of milk thistle(Silybum marianum) extract against its vehicle as control on skin erythma and skin melanin. Milk thistle extract was entrapped in the inner aqueous phase of w/o emulsion. The vehicle (base without extract) and the active formulation (containing 4% extract) were applied by volunteers (n = 11) for a period of 12 weeks. Skin erythma and melanin were measured fortnightly to determine any effect produced by these topical creams. Base showed significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase while active formulation showed significant decrease in skin melanin content. In the case of skin erythma, the base showed insignificant decrease (P ≥ 0.05), whereas the formulation showed statistically significant decrease. The study showed that active formulation containing extract of milk thistle reduced skin melanin due to the presence of silymarin flavonoids. The formulation also possessed anti-inflammatory effects and was found to be suitable for topical application. Key words: Silybum marianum, w/o emulsion, anti-erythmic, skin whitening, mexameter.

The present study was performed in the cities of Faisalabad and Sargodha, and pediatric in-patient prescriptions were collected from four private and D.H.Q hospitals of these two cities. The collected data of 1420 prescriptions was analyzed for drug interactions by using the software developed by the Medical Letter. The drug interactions found were divided into severe, moderate and mild depending on the type of effect produced. The results showed that the public sector showed 820 drug interactions, that is 74.55%; on the other hand, the private sector showed 130 drug interactions, that is 40.63%. The private sector hospital of Faisalabad showed only 40 drug interactions, that is 20%; while 90 drug interactions, that is 75% were found in private sector hospital of Sargodha. The public sector hospital of Sargodha showed 390 drug interactions, 92.86% and 430 drug interactions, that is 63.24% were found in public sector hospital of Faisalabad. The results showed that the frequency of drug interactions was much less in private hospitals as compared to the public sector hospitals. The possible reason was the presence of clinical pharmacists in more numbers in the private hospitals as compared to the public sector hospitals. It is therefore required that the role of pharmacist should be increased in the hospitals.

This study was designed to find out the effects of newly formulated topical cream (w/o emulsion) of basil ( Ocimum basilicum ) against its base as control on skin erythma and skin melanin. Concentrated basil extract was entrapped in the inner aqueous phase of w/o emulsion. Newly formulated and formerly evaluated base (containing no extract) and a formulation (containing 3% concentrated extract of basil) were applied. Both the base and formulation were applied to the cheeks of 11 healthy human volunteers for a period of 12 weeks. Skin erythma and melanin were determined every two weeks to measure any effect produced by these topical creams. The base showed insignificant (p ≥0.05) whereas the formulation showed statistically significant decrease in skin erythma. Skin melanin content was significantly (p ≤0.05) increased by the base but decreased by the formulation. The newly formulated cream of basil extract reduced skin melanin without causing any irritation and was found to be suitable for application on skin as determined by efficacy perception.

The purpose of the study was to prepare a stable multiple emulsion containing a skin anti-aging agent and using paraffin oil. Vitamin C, was incorporated into the inner aqueous phase of water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) multiple emulsion at a concentration of 1%. Multiple emulsion was prepared by two step method. Stability studies were performed at different accelerated conditions, i.e. 8 o C (in refrigerator), 25 o C (in oven), 40 o C (in oven), and 40 o C at 75% RH (in stability cabin) for 28 days to predict the stability of formulations. Different parameters, namely pH, globule size, electrical conductivity and effect of centrifugation (simulating gravity) were determined during stability studies. Data obtained was evaluated statistically using ANOVA two way analyses and LSD tests. Multiple emulsion formulated was found to be stable at lower temperatures (i.e. 8 and 25 o C) for 28 days. No phase separation was observed in the samples during stability testing. It was found that there was no significant change (p > 0.05) in globule sizes in most of the samples kept at various conditions. Insignificant changes (p > 0.05) in both pH and conductivity values were determined for the samples kept at 8, 40, and 40 o C at 75% RH, throughout the study period. Further studies are needed to formulate more stable emulsions with other emulsifying agents. KEY WORDS : Multiple emulsion, Vitamin C, Stability Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2010 , 24(1), 1-10.