Abstract : Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis have been recognized as pus-forming bacteria
triggering an inflammation in acne. The present study was conducted to evaluate antimicrobial activities of Terminalia
arjuna bark against these etiologic agents of acne vulgaris. Topical formulations (cream) have been developed
containing flavonoid (FF-I to III) and tannin fraction (TF-I to III) of Terminalia arjuna bark at different concentrations
i.e. 0.5%, 1% and 2% (w/w). These topical formulations were tested for pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, drug
contents uniformity and in vitro diffusion. The drug content uniformity of creams were found within the range of
97.31% to 98.80% (FF-I to III) and 96.84% to 98.66% (TF-I to III) respectively. The formulations of FF -III and TF –III
showed maximum drug release of 83% and 78% over a period of 8h. All the formulations were evaluated for its acute
skin irritancy activity in Swiss Albino rats. These formulations did not produce any skin irritation for about a week when
applied over the skin. Comparative studies showed that the viscosity of the formulations increases, spreadability
decreases and vice versa. From the stability studies, creams showed no changes in pH, viscosity, spreadability and drug
contents, after keeping at different temperatures for 90 days.