Novel Topical Formulations Based on O. Basilicum and T. Pratense: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Inflammatory Effect

Abstract

This study aimed to highlight the importance of phytochemical-based formulations in the treatment of wounds with different etiologies, avoiding the possible side effects generated by conventional treatments. We present the preparation method of novel topical formulations (cream, ointment, and hydrogel) based on mixed extracts of Ocimum basilicum and Tifolium pratense along with evidence of their antimicrobial and antioxidant effect in vitro . The anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties of the new formulations were evaluated against different chronic inflammatory processes by presenting three clinical cases of chronic skin diseases. The clinical cases presented in our study revealed good outcomes of the cream formulation in the case of dyshidrotic eczema, ointment formulation in the case of hypertrophic scar, and hydrogel formulation in the case of psoriasis lesions. The best effect was noticed after 6 days of topical application of hydrogel on psoriatic plaques, resulting in a significant reduction of erythematous plaques. antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the mixed extract was further exploited to develop novel therapeutic formulations designed for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds susceptible to superinfection and/or antibiotic resistance. Hence, novel formulations (ointment, cream, and hydrogel) were prepared and applied in 3 clinical cases: dyshidrotic palmar eczema, hypertrophic scar, and psoriasis lesions. The clinical cases presented in our study revealed good outcomes of the cream formulation in the case of Dyshidrotic eczema, ointment formulation in the case of Hypertrophic scar, and hydrogel formulation in the case of Psoriasis lesions. The best effect was noticed after 6 days of topical application of hydrogel on psoriatic plaques, resulting in a significant reduction of erythematous plaques, reduction of adherent pearly white scales, and local itching. Our results highlight the importance of phytochemical-based formulations in the treatment of chronic wounds with different etiologies, avoiding the possible side effects generated by conventional treatment with corticosteroids such as allergic skin reactions, secondary skin infections, skin thinning, skin discoloration, itching, or stretch marks.