Formulation Strategies for Herbal Lotions Using Daucus carota Seed Extracts: A Review of Methods and Applications

Abstract

Herbal formulations have garnered increasing attention in recent years as natural alternatives to synthetic pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, particularly in the domain of skin care and wound healing. Among various botanicals, Daucus carota (commonly known as wild carrot or Queen Anne's lace) has emerged as a promising medicinal plant due to its rich phytochemical profile, encompassing flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. These bioactive compounds exhibit potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-regenerative properties, making Daucus carota seed extracts ideal candidates for topical applications. This review systematically explores the formulation strategies adopted in the development of herbal lotions incorporating Daucus carota seed extracts. It provides an in-depth overview of the methods of extraction, characterization of active constituents, formulation bases, emulsification techniques, and stability-enhancing practices. Moreover, the paper discusses the pharmacological rationale for using Daucus carota in dermatological applications, supported by recent scientific evidence. Special emphasis is placed on the challenges and considerations in designing stable, efficacious, and patient-compliant formulations, including pH compatibility, preservative selection, and permeability studies. Additionally, comparative insights are offered between conventional lotions and herbal formulations, highlighting the safety and efficacy profiles. The review concludes with recommendations for future research directions to standardize herbal lotion development and validate clinical effectiveness. Through this synthesis, the paper aims to contribute to the growing body of literature on plant-based dermatological therapies and guide researchers in optimizing herbal lotion formulations for commercial and therapeutic use.