Dhiraj D Patil, Karunakar Shukla, Amit Modi
The study aimed at the formulation and evaluation of a herbal aroma spray containing selected essential oils for antimicrobial activity against airborne pathogens. Increasing concerns regarding indoor air pollution, microbial contamination, and the adverse effects associated with synthetic air fresheners have created the need for safe, eco-friendly, and plant-based alternatives. In the present work, essential oils of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) were selected based on their reported antimicrobial and aromatherapeutic properties. Three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were prepared using Tween 80 as solubilizer, ethanol and propylene glycol as co-solvents, and distilled water as vehicle. The prepared formulations were estimated for physicochemical parameters such as appearance, pH, viscosity, spray pattern, evaporation rate, stability, and sensory characteristics. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method against selected microorganisms such as Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Stability studies and microbial limit tests were also performed to determine formulation quality and safety. Among the developed formulations, F2 exhibited the most desirable balance between antimicrobial efficacy, stability, sprayability, and sensory acceptability. The antimicrobial studies demonstrated significant zones of inhibition, confirming the effectiveness of essential oils against tested microorganisms. The formulation remained stable without significant phase separation, color change, or pH variation during the study period. Safety evaluation revealed that the formulation was non-irritant and suitable for use. The findings of this study suggest that herbal aroma sprays formulated with essential oils can serve as effective, safe, and environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic air fresheners and antimicrobial sprays. The developed formulation possesses promising potential for applications in environmental hygiene, indoor air purification, and aromatherapeutic wellness.
