Abstract

Ratha Taila is a traditional Ayurvedic oil for skin disorders containing Ixora coccinea, Croton aromaticus, Gossypium herbaceum, Cocos nucifera, and Sesamum indicum oil. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of Ratha Taila and developed a novel emulgel formulation to overcome oil-based delivery limitations. Aqueous extracts were prepared using traditional decoction methods. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the egg albumin denaturation assay, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans using disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Emulgel formulations (5%, 10%, and 20% w/w) were prepared using Tween 20 and Carbopol 940, with stability assessed over 46 days. Results showed that Ratha Taila and its ingredients, except C. nucifera, had significant preliminary anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects (p < 0.05). Ratha Taila exhibited the strongest activity against the tested microorganisms. The 20% emulgel formulation showed promising anti-inflammatory activity compared to diclofenac sodium gel and exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against selected microorganisms. Cocos nucifera demonstrated no significant anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial activity. In conclusion, Ratha Taila, its ingredients except C. nucifera, and formulated emulgel demonstrated preliminary antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.

Key words: Ratha Taila, Emulgel, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Herbal Formulation, Skin Disorders