For thousands of years, herbal medicines have been an essential component of traditional healthcare systems and continue to serve as a primary healthcare option in many regions worldwide. Herbal ointments semi-solid preparations meant for topical use are particularly valuable in treating various skin conditions, including infections, wounds, inflammations, and burns. These formulations are favored not just for their medicinal properties but also because they are affordable, environmentally friendly, and generally cause fewer side effects. Typically, herbal ointments are made by blending plant extracts with an appropriate base that facilitates the gradual release and effective absorption of active plant compounds. Bioactive substances like flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, making these products a promising alternative to synthetic topical medications. Among the many medicinal plants, Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) are especially renowned for their skin-related benefits. Herbal ointments generally consist of a thick, semi-solid base infused with parts of medicinal plants such as seeds, leaves, roots, or flowers for external use on the skin. The key bioactive compound in turmeric, curcumin, is backed by scientific evidence for its wide range of health benefits, including improving cardiovascular health, and offering protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Curcumin is also known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions and may help relieve symptoms of arthritis and depression.1 2
Anil Panchal* 2
Abdul Kalam Abdul Jabbar Nadaf 1
Vishal Madankar 3
MD Tanvir Hamid Karajagikar 1
10.5281/zenodo.15589916