Production and Antimicrobial Properties of Neem Based Herbal Soap against Selected Skin Pathogens

The antibacterial and phytochemical qualities of neem-based soaps made with transparent glycerin bases and goat milk were examined in this study. Aloe vera gel, rose water, vitamin E, and natural aroma were added to soap compositions after fresh Azadirachta indica (neem) leaves were gathered and processed into oil and aqueous extracts. Following manufacture, the weight, pH, and foaming capacity were examined right away. Using the agar well diffusion method, the antibacterial properties of the soaps were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Sporobolomyces spp., Malassezia furfur, Tinea capitis, Pseudomonas, Propionibacterium acne, and Candida albicans on Mueller Hinton Agar and Potato Dextrose Agar. According to the findings, the goat milk basis soap had larger zones of inhibition than the transparent base, and it was most active against Sporobolomyces spp. (25 mm). Both soaps demonstrated equal antifungal effects (15 mm) against Candida albicans. Phytochemical screening revealed that methanolic extracts of neem and aloe vera contained tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and saponins, whereas aqueous extracts showed fewer bioactive compounds. The soaps had skin-compatible pH and adequate foaming capacity. This study concludes that neem-based soaps, particularly those made with goat milk, are effective natural alternatives for managing microbial skin infections. It was also recommended that neem-based soap should be considered for distribution in rural health campaigns, especially in areas prone to skin infections and where access to conventional medicated soaps is limited.