Development and Characterization of Manjistha-Enriched Hydrogel for Skin Pigmentation Treatment: Comparative Evaluation with Commercial Anti-Pigmentation Formulations

The present study successfully developed a Manjistha-enriched hydrogel for topical application using an appropriate hydrogel base. The formulated hydrogel exhibited desirable physicochemical properties, including suitable pH, good consistency, adequate viscosity, satisfactory spreadability, easy washability, good extrudability, and a non-irritant nature, indicating its suitability for dermal application. The formulation also demonstrated good physical stability during the study period, suggesting its potential for long-term storage and use. Comparative evaluation showed that the developed hydrogel possessed physicochemical characteristics comparable to, and in some aspects better than, the commercial anti-pigmentation formulation, particularly in terms of spreadability and skin compatibility. The incorporation of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), a medicinal plant rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytoconstituents, further enhances the therapeutic potential of the formulation. Overall, the developed herbal hydrogel represents a promising natural alternative for the topical management of skin hyperpigmentation. Further preclinical and clinical studies are recommended to confirm its long-term safety and therapeutic efficacy before commercialization.

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