Herbal Microsphere-Based Topical Gel for Treating Bacterial Infections: A Review

Abstract

Herbal microsphere-based topical gels represent a promising approach for the localized treatment of bacterial skin infections by combining the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants with controlled drug-delivery technology. This review focuses on the design, formulation, and evaluation of herbal microsphere-based topical gels intended for antibacterial applications. Microspheres can enhance drug stability, improve controlled release, prolong residence time at the infection site, and potentially reduce dosing frequency. The review discusses commonly used herbal antibacterial agents, microsphere preparation techniques, gel-forming polymers, formulation variables, and important evaluation parameters such as particle size, entrapment efficiency, pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug release, stability, and antibacterial activity. Overall, herbal microsphere-based topical gels offer a promising and potentially effective platform for improving the localized delivery and therapeutic performance of herbal antibacterial agents.