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Research & Reviews : Journal of Herbal Science Original Research

A Review of Herbal Photoprotective Agents: From Traditional Knowledge to Modern Sunscreen Formulations

  1. Mahi Solanki School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  2. Jayalekshmi M. Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  3. Makwana Divya School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  4. Karan Solanki School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  5. Sparsh Shah School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad

Abstract

Continuous exposure of skin to UV rays leads to tanning, premature aging, sunburn, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Sunscreens are widely used to protect the skin from these harmful stimuli. However, sunscreen components may interfere with other health concerns like irritation, itching, allergic reactions, and distinct environmental damage. This major concern initiated the introduction of herbal photoprotective agents, which are eco-friendly, safer for use, and rich in antioxidants (preventing free radicals). Since ancient times, people began depending on plant sources due to their potent biochemical properties, natural defense, and their truly favorable healing mechanisms. India has a rich history of Ayurveda and herbal remedies, which aids even the formulation of sunscreens. The presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, essential oils, and other phytochemicals of plants has shown potent photoprotective activity. Phytochemicals, like polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, have demonstrated their significant ability to reduce or prevent inflammation, UV-induced oxidative stress, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and carcinogenesis. This review traces the journey from traditional knowledge and ethnobotanical uses of sun-protective botanicals to contemporary approaches for isolating, characterizing, and formulating their active constituents into modern sunscreen products. Studies have reported that various Indian plants can reduce UV-induced oxidative stress and prevent cellular damage or death. Including UV protection, these plants also possess anti-aging, repair skin damage, reduce inflammation, and enhance collagen synthesis (maintaining elasticity of skin, arteries, and organs). This review highlights various Indian herbal photoprotective agents, phytochemicals involved, mechanisms of action (in vivo and in vitro), available herbal formulations, and their potential role in contemporary formulations

Keywords

References (33)

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