FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL SUNSCREEN USING TULSI (OCIMUM SANCTUM) AND DURVA (CYNODON DACTYLON)

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal sunscreen using extracts of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Durva (Cynodon dactylon). Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and risk of skin cancer. Herbal sunscreens have gained importance due to their safety, biocompatibility, and reduced side effects compared to synthetic agents.In this study, Tulsi and Durva extracts were incorporated into a suitable cream base to develop a natural sunscreen formulation. Both plants are rich in phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, which contribute to UV protection and free radical scavenging activity. The prepared formulation was evaluated for various parameters including organoleptic properties, pH, spreadability, viscosity, stability, Sun Protection Factor (SPF), and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The results showed that the formulation possessed good physical characteristics, was stable, non-irritant, and exhibited moderate SPF value along with significant antioxidant activity. The study concludes that the herbal sunscreen formulated with Tulsi and Durva extracts is effective, safe, and suitable for topical application, providing natural protection against harmful UV radiation.

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