Formulation and Quality Evaluation of Polyherbal Toothpaste

Abstract

Background: Oral hygiene is essential for preventing dental issues such as plaque, tooth decay, and periodontal
diseases. Herbal toothpaste formulations provide a safer alternative to synthetic products by offering antimicrobial,
anti-inflammatory, and enamel-protective benefits without adverse effects. Objectives: This study aimed to develop
and evaluate a polyherbal toothpaste using natural ingredients, including clove, mango leaves, tulsi, ivy gourd
leaves, guava leaves, honey, and coconut oil, and to assess its physical, chemical, and antimicrobial properties.
Materials and Methods: Three formulations (T1, T2, T3) were prepared by incorporating herbal actives and
abrasives into a base gel. The formulations were evaluated for physical appearance, homogeneity, presence of
abrasive particles, spreadability, fineness, pH, and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus using the
disc diffusion method. Results: All formulations exhibited smooth texture, uniform appearance, and acceptable
homogeneity. T3, containing the highest concentration of herbal actives, showed superior performance across
most parameters: best spreadability, highest fineness with lowest abrasive residue (0.29%), optimal pH (7.31),
and strongest antibacterial activity (20 mm zone of inhibition), closely approaching the standard neomycin control
(21 mm). T1 and T2 showed moderate performance in comparison. Conclusion: The study successfully developed
a safe, effective, and consumer-friendly polyherbal toothpaste. T3 demonstrated the most promising combination
of physical stability, therapeutic potential, and oral safety. These findings support the potential of herbal oral care
products as effective alternatives to conventional toothpastes. In addition, regulatory considerations in India and
the USA were discussed to ensure quality, safety, and post-marketing surveillance.