Formulation and evaluation of therapeutic antimicrobial citrus and Manuka honey creams with aloe vera, mint essential oil, and Indian costus.

Honey has long been recognized for its antimicrobial properties, attributed to components such as polyphenols and biodefense proteins. Among honey types, Manuka honey, rich in methylglyoxal, and citrus honey, abundant in flavonoids and bioactive enzymes, exhibit potent antimicrobial activity. This study aims to enhance the antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of Manuka and citrus honey by incorporating natural additives-aloe vera, Indian costus, and mint essential oil-into cream formulations.