Formulation and Evaluation of Hand Sanitizer using Neem and Turmeric Extract

According to the most recent FDA definition, a hand sanitizer is considered a supplement or alternative to washing hands with soap and water. Additionally, hand sanitizer, often referred to as a hand antiseptic or hand rub, is a product used on the hands to eliminate common pathogens [1]. Hand hygiene is now considered a fundamental aspect of infection control measures. Given the increasing prevalence of healthcare-associated infections, along with the rising severity of illnesses and the complexities of treatment exacerbated by multi-drug resistant pathogens, healthcare professionals are returning to basic infection prevention strategies, such as hand hygiene. This shift is supported by substantial scientific evidence indicating that, when properly executed, hand hygiene can greatly diminish the risk of cross-infection in healthcare settings. Hygiene is defined as the practice of maintaining cleanliness, which is crucial for health preservation. Simple hygiene techniques represent the most vital, straightforward, and cost-effective approach to preventing healthcare-associated (nosocomial) infections and the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance [2]. The hands serve as the principal means for the transmission of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Therefore, maintaining hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms and, consequently, infections. The simplest and most cost-effective method to ensure hand hygiene is by using hand sanitizer. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are reported to eliminate 99.99% of microbes, making them highly effective [3]. An alternative method for hand hygiene is the use of hand sanitizer. This is a vital measure to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases, inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, and safeguard the skin from microorganisms. Hand sanitizers are available in various forms, including liquid, foam, and gel for convenient application. The market offers both alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers. However, the frequent application of alcohol-based sanitizers can harm the skin; therefore, it is essential to develop herbal hand sanitizers that are gentle on the skin while effectively eliminating germs [4].

1. To develop a natural and effective hand sanitizer using herbal extracts (such as Neem, Tulsi, Aloe Vera, and Lemon) that exhibit strong antimicrobial properties while being gentle on the skin.
2. To combine herbal ingredients with moisturizing agents like glycerin and Aloe Vera to mitigate the drying effects of alcohol, ensuring the product maintains skin hydration and comfort after use.
3. To create an alcohol-based hand sanitizer formulation that meets the recommended alcohol concentration of 60-70% to ensure proper antimicrobial efficacy, while incorporating herbal extracts to provide added skin benefits.
4. To evaluate the sensory attributes of the sanitizer (such as texture, fragrance, spreadability, and ease of use) to enhance user experience and satisfaction.
5. To ensure the safety and compatibility of the formulation with various skin types by conducting skin irritation tests and ensuring the product’s non-toxicity.
6. To formulate a stable and effective product that meets industry standards for hand hygiene while offering an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative to synthetic sanitizers.
7. To assess the stability, shelf-life, and overall efficacy of the herbal hand sanitizer under varying storage conditions to ensure long-term quality and performance [5].

Benefits of hand sanitizer:

The benefits of hand sanitizers include their portability, convenience, efficiency, and ease of use. Individuals who utilize hand sanitizers are at a reduced risk of transmitting gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. Commercially available hand sanitizers contain components that help prevent skin dryness. Proper use of hand sanitizers can lead to a 20 percent decrease in classroom absenteeism, as they help prevent illness.

Limitations: The alcohol concentration in hand sanitizers must be at least 60 percent, ideally ranging from 60 to 95 percent during application. Acceptable forms of alcohol include ethyl alcohol, isopropanol, or ethanol. It is important to note that not all sanitizers are created equal, so verification prior to purchase is essential. To ensure the sanitizer’s effectiveness, it must be applied to hands that are clean and devoid of soil, dirt, blood, or any form of lubrication.  Hand sanitizers should not be viewed as a substitute for hand washing; instead, they serve as a complementary practice that is significantly more effective when used alongside soap and water. Leading four herbal sanitizer brands[6].

PLANT PROFILE

Neem

Fig No. 1 Neem

The scientific classification of Neem is as follows:

Kingdom: Plantae;

Subkingdom: Viridiplantae;

Infrakingdom: Streptophyta;

Superdivision: Embryophyta;

Division: Tracheophyta (vascular plants);

Subdivision: Spermatophytina (seed plants);

Class: Magnoliopsida (dicotyledons);

Superorder: Rosanae;

Order: Sapindales;

Family: Meliaceae (Mahogany family);

Genus: Azadirachta;

Species: Azadirachta indica A. Juss.

Description

Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.), commonly known as the “Village Pharmacy” or “Nature’s Drugstore,” is a fast-growing, tropical evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It typically grows to a height of 15–20 meters, featuring a straight trunk and a dense, rounded canopy formed by spreading branches. The leaves are alternate and compound-pinnate, with 8 to 19 leaflets. Neem produces small, white, fragrant flowers arranged in axillary panicles. The fruit is a smooth, olive-like drupe that ripens to yellow.

Phytochemical Constituents

Neem contains a rich array of bioactive compounds, particularly limonoids, including:

• Azadirachtin
• Nimbin
• Nimbidin
• Salannin
• Gedunin

These compounds are responsible for neem’s diverse pharmacological and pesticidal properties.

Medicinal Uses

Neem is widely used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha for the following purposes:

Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties,anti-inflammatory and antimalarial actions

Immunomodulatory and antiparasitic effects effective in treating skin disorders, dental infections, gastrointestinal ailments, and diabetes [7].

Fig No. 2 Turmeric

Scientific Classification of Turmeric

Kingdom: Plantae

Subkingdom: Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)

Superdivision: Spermatophyta (Seed plants)

Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)

Class: Liliopsida (Monocotyledons)

Order: Zingiberales

Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family)

Genus: Curcuma

Species: Curcuma longa L.

Description

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a perennial herb belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, widely cultivated in India and Southeast Asia. It has long-standing use in traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda and Unani. Turmeric is renowned for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Phytochemical Constituents

The primary active constituents of turmeri include:

Curcuminoids: Curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin

Essential oils: Turmerone, atlantone, and zingiberene

Other compounds: Proteins, resins, and sugars

Medicinal Uses

Turmeric exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects:

Antimicrobial: Effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi

Anti-inflammatory: Used to manage conditions like arthritis

Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress Cosmeceutical [8].

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Extraction Process

Preparation of Neem Extract

The leaves of the neem tree are thoroughly washed, dried in the shade, and ground into a fine powder. This powder is then subjected to extraction using ethanol through a maceration process lasting several hours. Following this, the extract is filtered and concentrated to achieve a semi-solid consistency, which is subsequently utilized in the formulation of hand sanitizer [12].

Fig No. 3 Neem Extract

Preparation of Turmeric Extract

Turmeric rhizomes undergo a process of cleaning, drying, and grinding into a fine powder. This powder is then extracted with ethanol using either maceration or Soxhlet extraction methods. The resulting extract is filtered and concentrated to produce a semi-solid turmeric extract, which is subsequently incorporated into the herbal hand sanitizer formulation to leverage its antimicrobial properties [13].

Fig No 4. Turmeric Extract

Formulation of Hand Sanitizer

1. Base Preparation:

In a clean beaker placed on a magnetic stirrer, 85% v/v ethanol was introduced as the main disinfectant

 2. Hydrogen Peroxide Addition: A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution was gradually incorporated into the ethanol to serve as a sporicidal agent.

3. Glycerol Incorporation: 98% glycerol was slowly blended in as a humectant to mitigate skin dryness, ensuring thorough mixing.

4. Herbal Extract Addition: Ethanol-based extracts of Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) were added for their antimicrobial effects.

5. Final Volume Adjustment: The mixture was brought to a total volume of 100 mL using sterile distilled water, resulting in a solution that was clear to slightly turbid.

6. Packaging and Storage: The hand sanitizer was transferred into a sterile, labeled container and stored at ambient temperature [14].

EVALUATION PARAMETERS

1. Appearance:

a) Odour: Assessed through manual evaluation.

b) Colour: Assessed through visual inspection.

2. pH Determination: The pH level of the herbal hand sanitizer was measured using a digital pH meter.

Fig No. 5 pH Test

3. Clarity: The clarity test was conducted to visually assess the presence of particulate matter.

Fig No. 6 Clarity Test

 4. Skin Irritation Test: The skin irritancy of the hand sanitizer was assessed by applying a small amount of the formulation to the palm and monitoring for any local irritation or inflammatory reactions.                                               

Fig No. 7 Skin Irritation Test

5. IN-VITRO Anti-microbial Activity via Nutrient Agar Well Plate Method: The anti-microbial efficacy of the formulation was evaluated against organisms using the dip well method according to standard procedures. Three sterile petri dishes were utilized to assess activity against two microorganisms. Nutrient agar was prepared and autoclaved at a temperature of 121°C to 123°C for 15 minutes at 15 lb pressure. The plates were filled with the nutrient agar solution, and after solidification, they were inoculated with the microorganisms. The formulation was introduced into the wells. The plates were incubated at 37°C, and after 24 hours, the plates were examined for zones of inhibition. The responses of the organisms to the formulation were recorded.

Media: Nutrient Agar Medium.

Bacterial Strains Used: The pathogens selected for assessing anti-microbial properties include:

a) Escherichia coli (Gram-negative).

 b) Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive).

Fig No. 8 Antimicrobial Test

 6. Evaporation Rate: Five healthy volunteers were chosen for the study. The herbal hand sanitizer was applied to their palms while they rubbed it in. The time taken for evaporation was recorded, which was found to be under one minute.

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

A hand rub disinfectant was developed using natural components such as turmeric and neem, known for their antioxidant, antiseptic, and antimicrobial characteristics. Neem leaf extract is particularly beneficial for alleviating skin inflammation. The formulation underwent testing for its physicochemical properties, yielding satisfactory outcomes. It exhibited remarkable antimicrobial efficacy against a range of microorganisms. Alcohol, a crucial ingredient, facilitates rapid germicidal action by denaturing microbial proteins and is notably effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and drug-resistant pathogens. In comparison to non-alcoholic sanitizers, alcoholic hand rubs provide quicker action (15–30 seconds), do not necessitate water, and offer greater convenience for users.

Evaluation Parameter