Abstract

DELONIX REGIA BASED NATURAL GARGLE: A POTENTIAL TREATMENT FOR UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT AILMENTS

Radhey J. Suthar*, Ridham D. Jayswal, Deep K. Patel, Dhruv A. Makwana, Subhashchandra K. Patel and Tejal R. Gandhi

Abstract

Background: Upper respiratory tract infections are becoming increasingly prevalent due to environmental pollution. During the COVID-19 pandemic, herbal remedies have gained prominence for managing throat infections and other microbial conditions. Delonix regia is a medicinal plant known for its antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a newer natural gargle formulation incorporating Delonix regia and other medicinal ingredients to manage oral and throat ailments, including pharyngitis, gingivitis, candidiasis, tonsillitis, dental caries, and postoperative sore throat. Methodology: An herbal gargle formulation was developed using Delonix regia in combination with rock salt, cinnamon, liquorice, Aloe vera gel, clove oil, and peppermint oil. The formulation underwent thin layer chromatography and physicochemical evaluation, encompassing pH measurement, antimicrobial efficacy testing, physical stability assessment, clarity, and viscosity analysis. Results: The developed gargle exhibited favourable physicochemical properties, Thin layer chromatography (Rf value: 0.8), stable, clarity (clear), viscosity (1.074 cP), and significant antimicrobial activity (Zone of inhibition: 17 mm). These findings suggest potential therapeutic benefits for patients with oral and throat conditions. Conclusion: The formulated herbal gargle, enriched with Delonix regia and other natural ingredients, demonstrated promising antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, indicating its potential as an alternative for managing throat and oral infections. Further studies are necessary for clinical validation.

Keywords: Delonix regia, Rock salt, Throat infections, Gargles.