Herbal Remedies in Cosmeceuticals Formulation: A Review on Nepalese Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: The beauty product preparation from natural ingredients reaches is
historical. People of rural area where the practice of modern cosmetic products are
not accessible, they mostly use and depend upon the locally available ingredients
in their own formulations. The inclusion of extracts in topical formulations can
minimize the skin damage of oxidative stress, which has been associated with
delaying the aging process. Therapeutic benefits by addition of plant-based active
ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acid, retinoic acid, ferulic acid, ascorbic acid,
and coenzyme Q10 are common. Natural preservatives are also in priority but it is
equally important to carry research for their efficacy and assurance.

Methods: An independent approach was used to conduct the literature review.
Major well-known bibliometric information sources studied are the Web
of Science, Scopus, Mendeley and Google Scholar. Several keywords like
name of plants, skin whitening, anti-acne, herbal cosmetics, Ayurvedic
herbs, skin cancer, moisturizer etc were chosen to obtain a large range of papers
to be analyzed. Local news papers, research reports and official websites were
also studied.

Results: The results obtained from this review showed that, there are numerous
herbs which are effective and safe for cosmetic purpose. Herbal based cosmetic
factories are started in Nepal but their research part not much strong and found
frequently lead by non-pharmacist or non-chemist human resources. Herbs
are rich in vitamins, phenolics and carotenoids which have mainly anti-aging,
revitalizing and rejuvenating properties. Herbs have vitamins, saponins and
flavanoids which supply various nutrients to hair and help to darkening of hair.
Different literatures available prove that the heavy metals are also mixed in large
quantity in cosmetics found in Nepalese market. There is an immediate need to
execute strong guidelines regarding the quality of cosmetic products in Nepal.

Conclusions: The current review on herbal cosmetics focuses on the natural
sources of cosmetics, their medicinal benefits, mechanism of action, key chemical
constituents and their advantages along with safety.