Rungta Institute of Pharmaceutical Science Kohka Bhilai.
The increasing prevalence of eye disorders due to pollution, digital screen exposure, and aging necessitates the development of safe, effective, and affordable ocular treatments. The project "Polly Herbal Eye Drops" focuses on formulating and evaluating a novel herbal-based eye drop using natural extracts with proven therapeutic properties. The aim is to create a sustainable and holistic remedy for common eye conditions like redness, dryness, conjunctivitis, and mild infections. The formulation integrates key herbal components known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties, such as Euphrasia officinalis (Eyebright), Aloe vera, Boricacid, sodiumborate (isotonic solution), (rosa damascene), Bel patti (aegle marmelos), Triphala (haritaki, babhitaki, amalaka), Bilberry, (vaccinium myrtillus), Honey, Fennel extract, Sterile water, Isotonic solution (saline). These ingredients are carefully selected for their minimal side effects, bioavailability, and compatibility with the sensitive ocular surface.
Polyherbal eye drops are ophthalmic formulations composed of multiple medicinal herbs that work synergistically to provide therapeutic benefits for various eye conditions. These herbal eye drops leverage the natural healing properties of plant-based ingredients to maintain ocular health, alleviate discomfort, and treat common eye disorders such as dryness, redness, infections, and allergic reactions. Polyherbal formulations involve the combination of two or more medicinal plant extracts to enhance therapeutic efficacy through a synergistic effect. Unlike single-herb remedies, polyherbal preparations aim to maximize pharmacological benefits while minimizing side effects. Eye disorders have become increasingly prevalent due to various factors such as environmental pollution, prolonged exposure to digital screens, and aging. Conventional synthetic eye drops, though effective, often come with side effects like irritation, dependency, and long-term safety concerns. This has led to growing interest in herbal-based remedies, which offer a natural, sustainable, and safer alternative for managing ocular conditions. Polly Herbal Eye Drops aim to harness the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants to provide relief, Aloe vera for its soothing and moisturizing effects, Curcuma longa (Turmeric) for its antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits, and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) for its ability to reduce irritation and protect against infections. This project seeks to explore the efficacy and safety of these herbal extracts through comprehensive formulation and evaluation. By addressing the need for holistic and cost-effective solutions in eye care, Polly Herbal Eye Drops offer a promising approach to improving ocular health with minimal side effects and environmental impact. This initiative aligns with the growing consumer preference for natural healthcare products, paving the way for innovation in ophthalmic treatment. The methodology for preparing poly herbal eye drops involves several key steps, from the selection of herbs to the formulation, testing, and final evaluation. Here is a detailed approach, including the observations that might be made during each stage of the process.
Methodology And Observations: -
The methodology for preparing poly herbal eye drops involves several key steps, from the selection of herbs to the formulation, testing, and final evaluation. Here is a detailed approach, including the observations that might be made during each stage of the process.
Fig.1-Samples of ingredients of Herbal Eye Drops
Fig 7 Fennel extract
Preparation of Polyherbal Eye Drops: -
|
Selection of Herbal Ingredients |
Choose medicinal herbs known for eye health benefits: Triphala extract, Rosewater extract, Belpatti extract, Honey, Bilberry extract, Aloe vera, and Fennel extract. |
|
Collection and Authentication |
Collect plant materials from authenticated sources and verify through macroscopic, microscopic, and phytochemical analysis. |
|
Extraction of Herbal Components |
Extract bioactive compounds using appropriate techniques: |
|
Filtration and Purification |
Filter extracts using Whatman filter paper, muslin cloth, or membrane filters, followed by centrifugation for purity. |
|
Sterilization |
Sterilize the formulation using membrane filtration (0.22 μm filter) to ensure microbial safety. |
|
Formulation and mixing |
Mix sterile herbal extracts in appropriate ratios, adjust pH (6.5–7.5), and add natural preservatives (ascorbic acid or mild synthetic alternatives). |
|
Quality Control Tests |
Conduct Essential Tests: |
|
Packaging and Storage |
Fill sterile dropper bottles (glass/plastic) and store in a cool, dark environment to maintain stability. |
|
In-Vitro and In-Vivo Evaluation |
Perform in-vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory assays, followed by in-vivo studies (animal or human trials) to ensure safety and efficacy. |
Selection of Herbal Ingredients
Herb Selection Criteria: Herbs with known benefits for eye health were selected based on their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. The herbs chosen were:
Chamomile – Known for its anti-inflammatory and calming effects.
Aloe Vera – Provides soothing, moisturizing, and healing properties.
Triphala – Traditionally used to cleanse and rejuvenate the body, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Tulsi (Basil) – Known for its antibacterial and antioxidant effects.
Rosewater – Often used to cool and refresh the eyes, particularly for dry or irritated eyes.
Observations: -
Te selected herbs showed promising therapeutic properties for eye-related conditions such as irritation, dryness, and mild infections.
The herbs were chosen for their low risk of toxicity and compatibility with each other, based on prior research and literature on herbal eye care.
Preparation of Herbal Extracts
Extraction Methods: -
Chamomile: Extracted through an infusion method by soaking dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 30 minutes, followed by filtration.
Aloe Vera: Extracted by cold maceration using glycerin or alcohol to extract the gel-like substance from the leaves, followed by filtration.
Triphala: Prepared as a decoction by boiling dried Triphala powder in water for 15 minutes, then straining it.
Tulsi: Extracted using the cold maceration method, similar to aloe vera.
Rosewater: Used directly from a commercially available, preservative-free source.
Observations:
The herbal extracts produced a clear, paleyellow liquid (for chamomile and aloe vera), with a slight greenish tint from Tulsi. The smell of the extracts was soothing and pleasant, with chamomile having a mild floral scent, and rosewater contributing a refreshing aroma. Aloe vera extract appeared thicker in consistency due to the natural gel-like substance.
Formulation of Poly Herbal Eye Drops
Herbal Extract Combination: The herbal extracts were combined in specific ratios based on their properties and concentrations proven to be safe for ocular use:
Chamomile extract – 5%
Aloe Vera extract – 10%
Triphala extract – 3%
Tulsi extract – 2%
Rosewater – 20%
Purified Water – 50% (to dilute the herbal extracts and achieve the desired concentration).
Evaluation Parameters of Polyherbal Eye Drops
To ensure safety, efficacy, sterility, and stability, polyherbal eye drops must undergo physicochemical, microbiological, and pharmacological evaluations. The following table outlines key evaluation parameters, test methods, and their purpose:
Parameter |
Test Method |
Purpose |
1. Organoleptic Evaluation |
Visual inspection (color, odor, clarity) |
Ensures acceptable appearance, transparency, and absence of particles. |
2. pH Measurement |
pH meter |
Ensures compatibility with the physiological pH of the eye (6.5–7.5) to prevent irritation. |
3. Sterility Test |
Culture media incubation (Soybean Casein Digest Medium, Fluid Thioglycolate Medium) |
Ensures absence of microbial contamination (bacteria & fungi). |
4. Viscosity |
Brookfield viscometer |
Determines flow properties for proper eye retention and easy application. |
5. Osmolarity |
Osmometer |
Maintains isotonicity to avoid irritation and ensure comfort. |
6. Stability Studies |
Storage at different temperatures (25°C, 40°C, etc.) & periodic analysis |
Evaluates shelf life, consistency, and potency over time. |
7. Antimicrobial Activity |
Agar well diffusion method |
Tests the antibacterial and antifungal properties of herbal components like honey, Triphala, and fennel. |
8. Antioxidant Activity |
DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay |
Measures free radical scavenging activity of herbs like bilberry, Triphala, and aloe vera. |
9. Irritation Test (Ocular Safety) |
Hen’s Egg Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) or Draize test (rabbit eye model) |
Ensures the formulation is non-irritant and safe for human use. |
10. Eye Retention Time |
Fluorescein dye test |
Determines how long the eye drop remains in contact with the eye surface. |
11. Refractive Index |
Refractometer |
Ensures clarity and optical quality of the solution. |
12. Drop Test |
Drop size measurement using graduated pipette |
Ensures uniform dosing per drop. |
13. Heavy Metal Analysis |
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) |
Detects harmful heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As, Hg) in herbal extracts. |
14. Microbial Load Test |
Total Viable Count (TVC) for Bacteria & Fungi |
Checks for bacterial and fungal contamination. |
15. Preservative Efficacy Test |
Standard antimicrobial challenge test |
Confirms the effectiveness of natural or synthetic preservatives. |
Preservatives and pH Adjustment: -
Preservatives such as sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate were added at minimal concentrations to prevent microbial contamination.
pH Adjustment: The pH of the formulation was adjusted to a range of 6.5–7.5 using citric acid or sodium hydroxide, ensuring compatibility with the natural pH of the eye.
Sterilization: The final mixture was filtered using a 0.22-micron sterile filter to remove any particulate matter and then sterilized under aseptic conditions.
Observations: -
Packaging and Storage: -
Packaging: The final solution was dispensed into sterile dropper bottles to ensure ease of use and hygienic application.
Storage: The bottles were stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light to maintain the efficacy of the herbal ingredients and preservatives.
Observations:
The dropper bottles were easy to fill, and the dropper mechanism worked well to dispense small, controlled amounts of the eye drop solution. Storage in a cool, dark place ensured that the formulation remained stable without any noticeable changes in color or consistency over the course of the study period (2–3 weeks).
Improvement in Symptoms: Volunteers reported a significant reduction in symptoms of eye dryness, irritation, and redness. The eye drops were well-tolerated with no complaints of discomfort or burning.
Overall Satisfaction: The participants expressed satisfaction with the ease of use and effectiveness of the eye drops in relieving eye strain, particularly in the context of prolonged screen use.
RESULT:
The poly herbal eye drops is made up of honey, tri-phala, bel-patti it provide soothing effect and anti-inflammatory as well as anti-oxidant effect in eyes irritation caused due to environmental factors like dust particles pathogens additional the poly herbal eye drops PH balance is 7.4 insured compatibility with the eyes natural alkality. solutions. Herbal eye drops like Polly not only address medical needs but also cater to environmentally conscious consumers by promoting the use of renewable plant resources and minimizing synthetic chemical usage. However, challenges such as the standardization of herbal extracts and large-scale production need to be addressed. Future studies could focus on refining extraction methods, optimizing the formulation for mass production, and conducting clinical trials to validate its therapeutic claims.
CONCLUSION:
Polly Herbal Eye Drops present a promising advancement in herbal ophthalmic care, offering a safe, effective, and eco-friendly solution to a variety of eye problems. This innovation could bridge the gap between traditional herbal knowledge and modern medical applications, meeting the rising demand for natural and sustainable healthcare products.
REFERENCES
Suman Sahu, Bhupendra Verma, Ayushi Khadatkar, Denees Sinha, Domeshwari Sahu, Sanjay Kumar Sahu, Chandraprabha Dewangan*, Dr. Harish Sharma, Gyanesh Kumar Sahu, A Formulation & Evaluation of Polherbal Eye Drop, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 5, 3132-3142. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15461197