Formulation and Evaluation of a Hibiscus-Based Herbal Gel for the Treatment of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are painful lesions affecting the oral mucosa, often impairing essential functions such as eating and speaking. Conventional treatments rely on synthetic agents that may induce side effects with prolonged use. This study aims to formulate and evaluate an herbal gel containing Hibiscus rosa-sinensis extract, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Additional components like honey and peppermint oil were incorporated to enhance therapeutic efficacy, improve taste, and impart a soothing sensation. The gel was prepared using Carbopol 934 as the gelling agent and was evaluated for physicochemical and pharmacotechnical parameters, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, clarity, and skin irritation. Among three formulations (F1, F2, F3), formulation F2 demonstrated optimal properties with a pH of 6.5, high viscosity (3.8 × 10⁴ cP), excellent spreadability, and absence of skin irritation. The study supports the potential of Hibiscus-based gel as an effective and safe alternative for managing mouth ulcers, though further in vivo and clinical investigations are warranted.