Use of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and Rosmarinus officinalis L. in the formulation of antibacterial soaps

Abstract

In principal, phytotherapy is the study of medicinal plants and their applications in the treatment and cure of diseases. Medicinal plants have been in use since antiquity and their importance is growing empirically among people around the world. Although, it is not very common to find herbal medicines sold over-the-counter in pharmacies, their use has been gaining popularity. In recent times, the indiscriminate use of medicines, particularly antibiotics, has become a matter of major public health concern in view of increasing bacterial resistance to certain antibiotics. Proper hygiene of the body, especially the hands, is of paramount importance to prevent cross-infection, particularly among healthcare professionals. Therefore, the use of antiseptics has become essential in the daily activities. Herbal formulation, being natural products, can prove to be useful alternatives to combat common pathogens, as they are safe for human body. Several plant species have been studied in search of antibacterial alternatives and many of them have been exploited for their use as phytocosmetics. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and Rosmarinus officinalis L. have been found to possess strong antibacterial properties and therefore can be used as phytocosmetics in the form of soaps.