LAUSR

Objective: The objective was to develop the semisolid preparations containing extract of Thai polyherbal recipe with anti-inflammatory effect. Methods: Polyherbal ethanolic extract was prepared by maceration and determined for phytochemicals and antioxidant activity. Effects of extract on the production of pro-inflammatory mediator-nitric oxide (NO)-were examined in RAW 264.7 cells. Semisolid preparations, balm, and gel, were prepared and evaluated. In vitro release profiles and mechanisms of phenolic compounds, phytochemical markers, from the preparations were investigated. Results: Polyherbal ethanolic extract was dark yellow-green, viscous liquid with the yields of 8.2%. Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were 121.21±1.60 mg GAE/g and 26.55±1.38 mg QE/g, respectively. Antioxidant assay showed that polyherbal extract can scavenge the radical to a certain extent, with DPPH IC50 of 160.75±3.43 µg/ml and FRAP values of 91.94±4.17 mg FeSO4/g. In vitro anti-inflammatory test revealed that the extract inhibited NO production in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 of 145.65±3.26 µg/ml. The yellowish-green color, homogenous and suitable for skin application polyherbal balm and gel was obtained. The higher release of phenolics from the gel was observed, with the cumulative release at 8 h of 119.0±4.3 mg GAE, whereas that from the balm was only 39.7±2.0 mg GAE. The phenolic release profile was found to be best fitted with the Higuchi model. Conclusion: The semisolid preparations containing Thai polyherbal recipe extract with anti-inflammatory effect were successfully prepared. The proper semisolid base and compositions are crucial for effective skin delivery as they influence the release rates of phytochemical markers.