Herbal Ethosomal Cream for Psoriasis

Ethosome based formulations represent an advanced transdermal drug delivery system designed to enhance skin penetration and therapeutic efficacy. In this study, an ethosomal cream containing papain, a proteolytic enzyme, and curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant compound, was developed for the management of psoriasis. Papain facilitates the removal of hyperkeratotic plaques, while curcumin modulates inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress associated with psoriatic lesions. The ethosomal carrier improves the permeation of these bioactive agents through the stratum corneum, ensuring targeted delivery to affected skin layers. The cream was characterized for physicochemical properties, stability, entrapment efficiency results demonstrated enhanced drug penetration, sustained release, and potential synergistic effects of papain and curcumin, suggesting that the ethosomal cream could serve as a promising non-invasive therapeutic approach for psoriasis with improved efficacy and reduced systemic side effects.