Virginia Via Research Day Book 2026

Faculty Research Clinical

02 A Novel All-Natural Topical Formulation for Diverse Skin Conditions: Case Series Findings

M. Faisal Hossain, Randy Mullins, Susan Mayhew Corresponding author: mhossain@acp.edu

Appalachian College of Pharmacy, Oakwood, Virginia

eczema experienced marked improvement. No adverse effects or skin reactions were observed. Conclusion: Preliminary findings indicate that this natural, plant-based formulation is well-tolerated and may provide rapid, effective relief for minor skin conditions. These results support continued investigation and expanded enrollment to evaluate clinical effectiveness across diverse dermatologic presentations. IRB Statement Approved by the IRB of Appalachian College of Pharmacy, ID #2025-003.

Background: Minor skin conditions, including eczema, insect bites, poison ivy rash, and superficial cuts, affect tens of millions of people annually. While many topical treatments rely on corticosteroids or antimicrobial agents, there is growing interest in naturally derived, plant-based ingredients with therapeutic potential, especially in the United States. Many plant extracts and essential oils exhibit anti inflammatory, antimicrobial, or wound-healing properties. For example, lavender and rosemary essential oils have demonstrated these effects, with lavender reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and promoting wound healing, rosemary supporting tissue regeneration, exhibiting antimicrobial activity, and enhancing infected-wound healing. Objective / Hypothesis: To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of a natural, plant-based topical cream and ointment for common minor skin conditions. Hypothesis: A formulation enriched with anti inflammatory and antimicrobial ingredients will provide rapid symptom relief and visible improvement.

Methods: A prospective, ongoing case series was conducted with volunteers aged 4–70 years presenting with minor skin conditions, including insect bites, poison ivy rash, dermatitis, minor cuts, rashes, and eczema. Participants applied a topical cream preparation developed at the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, formulated with lavender and rosemary essential oils along with several other naturally derived plant-based ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing properties. The cream was applied 2–4 times daily for 2–4 days. Outcomes included participant reported symptom relief and investigator-assessed lesion improvement. Resolution time, degree of symptom reduction, and tolerability were summarized descriptively. Results: Fifteen participants were enrolled. Fourteen reported significant improvement or complete resolution within 24–72 hours. Rapid relief was particularly noted for poison ivy dermatitis, insect bites, and minor irritation. One participant with chronic plaque psoriasis did not respond, consistent with disease-specific therapy needs. Participants with

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