Formulation and Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Cream by Using Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil

Fig.1 moringa oleifera plant

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree or miracle tree, is a highly valued plant species native to the Indian subcontinent. This versatile and nutrient-rich tree has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, food, and water purification. Moringa oleifera is a member of the Moringaceae family and is characterized by its rapid growth rate, tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions, and high nutritional value. Botanically, Moringa oleifera is a deciduous tree that grows up to 10 meters in height, with a spread of up to 3 meters. Its bark is smooth and grey, while its leaves are dark green, compound, and feathery. The plant produces small, white flowers that are highly fragrant, followed by long, thin pods that contain edible seeds. The plant's leaves, pods, seeds, and roots are all edible and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moringa oleifera is an excellent source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, and antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids. Traditionally, Moringa oleifera has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever and inflammation, digestive disorders, skin conditions, and respiratory problems. Its numerous health benefits have gained significant attention in recent years, and its potential uses are being explored in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.  In medicine, Moringa oleifera has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential treatment for a range of diseases. In agriculture, Moringa oleifera is a drought-tolerant crop that can thrive in poor soil conditions, making it an ideal crop for small-scale farmers in developing countries. Additionally, Moringa oleifera has been shown to have potential uses in water purification and soil remediation. As research into the benefits and applications of Moringa oleifera continues to grow, it is likely that this versatile plant will play an increasingly important role in addressing some of the world's most pressing health, environmental, and economic challenges.    It is great for topical use on the skin and the hair. Moringa oil has many therapeutic benefits such as antioxidant, anti?inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and exfoliant. The present study was aimed to formulate the M. oleifera oil?based cream and to evaluate its anti?inflammatory effect.

Moringa oleifera seed oil   

Fig.2 moringa oleifera seed oil

Moringa oleifera seed oil, also known as ben oil, is a nutrient-rich oil extracted from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree. This oil is highly valued for its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties, making it a popular ingredient in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. The oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. One of the most significant benefits of Moringa oleifera seed oil is its high levels of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that is easily absorbed into the skin. This makes the oil an excellent moisturizer, capable of hydrating and nourishing the skin, while also providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection. The oil is also rich in behenic acid, a fatty acid that is known for its ability to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors. Moringa oleifera seed oil has been shown to have a range of potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting the immune system. The oil's antioxidant properties also make it an effective natural preservative, capable of extending the shelf life of cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. In addition, the oil's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it a popular ingredient in natural remedies for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The oil is also used in cooking, particularly in Indian and African cuisine, where it is valued for its mild, nutty flavour and high smoke point, making it an excellent choice for sautéing and frying. In terms of production, Moringa oleifera seed oil is typically extracted using a cold-pressing process, which helps to preserve the oil's delicate nutritional and medicinal properties. Overall, Moringa oleifera seed oil is a highly versatile and nutritious oil that offers a range of benefits for the skin, hair, and overall health. Its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties make it a popular ingredient in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries, and its potential health benefits make it a valuable addition to any natural health routine.

Objectives of Moringa oleifera Seed oil

1. Reduce Inflammation: Moringa oleifera seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate conditions such as arthritis.

2. Improve Heart Health: The oil's high levels of oleic acid and antioxidants may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

3. Support Immune System: Moringa oleifera seed oil's antimicrobial and antioxidant properties may help support the immune system and prevent illnesses.

4. Antioxidant Properties: The oil's high antioxidant content may help protect against cell damage, reduce oxidative stress, and prevent chronic diseases.

5. Moisturize and Nourish Skin: Moringa oleifera seed oil's high levels of oleic acid and antioxidants may help hydrate and nourish the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

6. Anti-Aging Properties: The oil's antioxidant properties may help reduce the visible signs of aging, such as age spots and discoloration.

7. Natural Preservative: Moringa oleifera seed oil's antioxidant properties make it an effective natural preservative for cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.

8. Pharmaceutical Applications: The oil's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential ingredient in pharmaceutical products, such as wound care creams and ointments.

9. Cosmetic Applications: Moringa oleifera seed oil is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including skincare creams, lotions, and serums.

10. Food Industry: The oil is used as a cooking oil and as an ingredient in food products, such as salad dressings and marinades.

Advantages:

1. Moringa oleifera seed oil is a good source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins such as A

and E, which can help promote healthy skin and hair.

2. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit conditions such as arthritis and skin inflammation.

3. The oil is lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin, making it a good moisturizer for dry or damaged skin.

4. Moringa oleifera seed oil has been found to have antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacteria and fungi.

Disadvantages:

1. Some individuals may be allergic to moringa oleifera seed oil and may experience skin irritation or other allergic reactions when using products containing the oil.

2. Moringa oleifera seed oil is sensitive to light and heat, which can affect its stability and shelf life if not stored properly.

2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

1. Gaidhane shital Vasant ,Disha Kale ,Samiksha Vidhate et al (2024)This study evaluated the chemical composition and anti-inflammatory activity of moringa seed oil, formulated a cream, and assessed its efficacy in vivo. Moringa oleifera seed oil is receiving global attention due to several commercial interests, namely the nutritional, physical, chemical and pharmacological properties Moringa oleifera seeds.
2. Vidyadhara Suryadevara, Sandeep Doppalapudi, Sasidhar Reddivallam L.C, Ramu Anne, Mounika Mudda et al (2021)Oil was extracted from Moringa oleifera seeds by cold press technique and an anti?inflammatory cream formulation was made using alkali saponification method. The prepared cream was evaluated for ex vivo and in  vivo anti?inflammatory activities which revealed the anti?inflammatory potency of Moringa seed oil.
3. Sirivan Athikomkulchai 1,Prakairat TunitPrakairat TunitSciProfilesScilitPreprints.orgGoogle Scholar 2,Sarin Tadtong 1,Pensak Jantrawut 3,4,Sarana Rose Sommano 4,5ORCID andChuda Chittasupho 3,4,*(2021)The moringa seed oil cream exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity and increased the in vivo skin hydration level compared with the cream base.
4. Suraj T. Jadhav, Nitin A Gaikwad, Indrajeet V Mane, Manohar D Kengar, Abhishek S. Pujari, Shubham B. Devkar et al (2019) Moringa oleifera is the most widely cultivated species of a monogenetic family, it is now widly cultivated and has become naturalized in many locatons in the tropics.
5. Sirivan Athikomkulchai 1, Prakairat Tunit 2, Sarin Tadtong 1, Pensak Jantrawut 3,4, Sarana Rose Sommano 4,5and Chuda Chittasupho 3,4,(2020) The chemical components of moringa seed oil were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography.
6. Sirivan Athikomkulchai 1,Prakairat Tunit 2,Sarin Tadtong 1,Pensak Jantrawut 3,4,Sarana Rose Sommano 4,5ORCID andChuda Chittasupho 3,4, et al (2020)  The antioxidant activity of the oil was determined by a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging assay. An oil-in-water cream containing moringa seed oil was developed and characterized for antioxidant activity.

3.RATIONAL OF THE STUDY:-

NEED OF WORK:-

• The need for this study arises from the growing demand for natural and safe anti-inflammatory agents. Moringa oleifera seed oil has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential candidate for the development of topical anti-inflammatory creams. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence on the formulation and evaluation of Moringa oleifera seed oil-based creams. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by formulating and evaluating the anti-inflammatory activity of creams containing Moringa oleifera seed oil. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of natural and effective anti-inflammatory creams, providing a safer alternative to synthetic anti-inflammatory agents.Herbal balm are often formulated with biodegradable ingredients and Sustainable packaging, making them more eco-friendly choice.

OBJECTIVES:-

• Formulate a cream using Moringa oil to reduce inflammation.
• Check the cream's texture, consistency, and shelf life.
• Compare the cream's effectiveness with existing anti-inflammatory products.
• Ensure the cream is safe and doesn't irritate the skin.

4. PLAN OF WORK:-

1. Topic selection: Provide an overview of Moringa oleifera, including its botanical characteristics, traditional uses, and current popularity in skincare products. Dive into the specific compounds present in Moringa oleifera seed oil that contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties. Explain how these compounds work to reduce inflammation in the skin.

2. Literature and Review: Briefly introduce the topic of anti-inflammatory creams and the use of Moringa oleifera seed oil in skincare products. Provide an overview of the importance of addressing inflammation in skincare and the potential benefits of natural ingredients like Moringa oleifera seed oil.

3. Material collection: Gather all the necessary ingredients for the cream. In addition to Moringa oleifera seed oil, consider selecting other skin-friendly ingredients such as Shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and essential oils like lavender or tea tree.

4. Formulation of Anti-Inflammatory cream: Measure out the required amounts of each ingredient based on your chosen recipe. Ensure a clean and sanitized work area before proceeding. Combine the ingredients in a double boiler or a heat-safe container over low heat to melt and blend them together. Stir continuously to ensure even mixing.

1. DRUG PROFILE:-

1. Moringa Seed Oil :-

Moringa oleifera seed oil is a highly versatile and nutritious oil that offers a range of benefits for the skin, hair, and overall health. Its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties make it a popular ingredient in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries, and its potential health benefits make it a valuable addition to any natural health routine. Moringa oil has many therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory action

2. Lanolin :-

Fig.3 Lanolin

Lanolin has been used for centuries as a skin softener and moisturizer. In a controlled clinical trial evaluating partial-thickness wounds in piglets, it was found that lanolin cream alone significantly enhanced the rate of epithelialization and increased dermal thickness when compared with lanolin/human epidermal growth factor cream or gauze controls. The proposed best use for lanolin is for abrasions and during the maturation phase of wound healing. Lanolin primarily consists of long-chain waxy esters, or sterol esters, that lack glycerides. For this reason, it is also called wool wax or wool grease. Lanolin is used in the protection, treatment, and cosmetic enhancement of human skin.

3. Stearic Acid

Fig.4 Stearic Acid

Molecular Formula:- C18H36O2CH3(CH2)16COOH

Synonyms: - stearic acid, Octadecanoic acid, n-Octadecanoic acid, Stearophanic acid

Uses: -

• Stearic acid is used as a lubricating agent.
• It is used as a food additive.
• Used in the production of detergents.
• It is widely used in cosmetics, soaps, and shampoos.
• It is used in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.
• It is used in making insulators.
• Used in the food packaging industry.

Glycerin

Fig.5 Glycerin

Molecular Formula: - C3H8O3 CH2OH-CHOH-CH2OH

Synonyms: - glycerol, glycerin, Glycerin propan-1,2,3-triol

Molecular Weight: - 92.09 g/mol

Uses: - acts as a potent humectant, drawing moisture from the air and deeper

Skin layers to hydrate and soften the skin, while also helping to improve the skin's protective barrier.  

V. Triethanolamine                                     

Fig.6 Triethanolamine

Molecular Formula: - C6H15NO3 (CH2OHCH2)3N

Synonyms: - Trolamine 2, 2’, 2’’-Nitrilotriethanol Sterolamide

Molecular Weight: - 149.19 g/mol

Uses :- Triethanolamine neutralizes the acidity of the salicylic acid. It is a topical analgesic used for temporary relief of minor pain associated with arthritis, simple backache, muscle strains, sprains, and bruises.

VI. Polyethylene glycol

Fig.7 Polyethylene glycol

Synonyms: - Carbowax alpha-Hydro-omega-hydroxypoly (oxy-1, 2-ethanediyl)

Uses: - PEG is a commonly used, safe, nonimmunogenic molecule possessing

hitherto unappreciated anti-inflammatory properties.

Low-molecular-weight. PEG may potentially play a role in the therapy

systemic of  inflammation and sepsis.

Methyl paraben

Fig.8 Methyl Paraben

Chemical Name: Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

Molecular Formula: C8H8O3

Molecular Weight: 152.15 g/mol

Physical Properties: Appearance: White crystalline powder

Solubility: Soluble in water ,ethanol ,and    propylene glycol

Melting Point: 125-128°C

Uses:

Preservative in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care    products

Rose Water

Fig.9 Rose Water

Botanical Name: Rosa damascene

Chemical Composition:

• Volatile oils (geraniol, linalool, and beta-damascenone)
• Flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol)
• Phenolic acids (gallic acid and ellagic acid)

Pharmacological Properties:- Anti-inflammatory

• Antioxidant
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-irritant
• Soothing and calming effects

Uses:

6. • • Skincare: acne, inflammation, and skin irritations
     • Wound healing
     • Anti-aging
     • Perfumery and fragrances
     • Food and beverage industry (flavoring and fragrance)
7. Methods of Preparation of Anti-inflammatory Cream of moringa oleifera Seed oil

Fig.10 Anti-inflammatory Cream

1. These w/o emulsion based preparations contain aqueous phase and an oil phase.

2. The Oil phase (A) containing suitable quantities of Moringa seed oil and Stearic acid, lanolin and glycerin were transferred in to a china dish and heated at 60°C–70°C on a water bath.

 3. The aqueous phase (B) having suitable quantities of Triethanolamine, Methyl paraben, polyethylene gycol were dissolved in distilled water and heated at 60°C–70°C on a water bath .

4. When both aqueous and oily phases reach the same temperature, the oil phase was poured into a mortar and triturated continuously by adding alkali until the smooth cream is obtained.

5. The obtained cream was packed safely and stored.

1. Formulation Table

Table no. 1 Formulation Table

Marketed Product for Comparative Study: Vedant Pain Reliever Cream

Vedant Pain Reliever Ayurveda Cream consist of pain-relieving ingredient that provide quick relief from soreness and stiffness in muscles and joints. It has anti-inflammatory properties which minimize inflammation and swelling.                                                                                                    

Product Highlight:

• Reduce inflammation and swelling
• Relieve joint pain
• Relieve back pain

Formulation:

• Mint leaves - 10%
• Wintergreen oil (gaultheria procumbens)- 10%
• Eucalyptus oil (nilgiri oil) - 2%
• Trachyspermum ammi(ajwan) - 1%
• Camphor oil- 1%
• Turpentine oil - 1%
• Clary Sage oil - 1%

Mint leaves:Mint leaves are used as cooling, pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and skin-toning properties. They help relieve muscle and joint pain, reduce acne and skin irritations, and provide a refreshing and toning effect on the skin.

Wintergreen oil: Wintergreen oil is used as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and topical analgesic.

Eucalyptus Oil ( nilgiri oil ): Eucalyptus oil is used in creams as a pain reliever, decongestant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent.

Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwan): Trachyspermum ammi is used as antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving properties, providing relief from muscle spasms, pain, and skin conditions, while also aiding in respiratory issues.

Camphor oil: Camphor oil is used as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and counterirritant, providing relief from muscle and joint pain, inflammation, and skin irritations.

Turpentine oil: Turpentine oil is used as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and counterirritant, providing relief from muscle and joint pain, inflammation, and skin irritations.        

Clary Sage oil:Clary Sage oil is used as a natural stress reliever, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic, providing relaxation, soothing skin irritations, and reducing inflammation.

 Manufacturer:

Manufactured in India by: ANAND PHARMA PRODUCTS F-69, M.I.D.C., Nagpur,  AHMEDNAGAR – 414111. (An IOS 9001: 2015 GMP Certified Unit).

MFG. LIC. No.: NKD/AYU/15

MFG Date: 11/2024

MRP ?: 75.00

8. Evaluation Test

The formulated creams were subjected to evaluation of various Parameters as per the standard procedures.

1. pH: - The pH meter was calibrated using standard buffer solution. About 0.5 g of the cream was weighed and dissolved in 50 ml of distilled water and its pH was measured.
2. Viscosity: - Viscosity of the formulation was determined using Brookfield Viscometer at 100 rpm, using spindle no 7.
3. Dye test: - The scarlet red dye was mixed with the cream. A drop of cream was placed on a microscopic slide and covered with a coverslip. This was examined under microscope. The dispersed globules appear colorless in the red ground indicating the o/w type formulation.
4. Homogeneity: - The formulations were tested for homogeneity by visual appearance and by touch.
5. Appearance: - The appearance of the cream was judged by its color, pearlescence, roughness, and then graded. After feel Emolliency, slipperiness and amount of residue left after the application of fixed amount of cream was checked.
6. Type of smear: - After application of cream, the type of film or smear formed on the skin was checked. Easy of removal. The ease of removal of the cream applied was examined by washing the applied part with tap water.
7. Irritancy test: - The cream was applied to the specified area and time was noted. Irritancy, erythema, and edema, were checked if any for regular intervals up to 24 h and reported.
8. Spread ability: - Adequate amount of sample is taken between two glass slide and weight of 100gm is applied on the slide for 5 min.
9. Colour: -colour is observed white or light yellow

10.RESULT:

The formulated anti-inflammatory cream containing Moringa oleifera seed oil demonstrated remarkable results. It showed a significant reduction in inflammation and edema, while also improving skin penetration and retention of the active ingredient. The cream exhibited good physical and chemical stability, and most importantly, it was found to be non-irritating and non-toxic on the skin. Notably, its anti-inflammatory activity was comparable to that of Vedant pain reliever Ayurveda cream. Overall, these findings suggest that Moringa oleifera seed oil-based cream is a promising natural and effective anti-inflammatory agent for topical use.

Comparative Study between Formulated Product & Marketed Product

Table No. 2 Observation Table of Anti-inflammatory Moringa Cream & Marketed Pain Reliever Cream