Research Summary
Kaolin, a white clay mineral composed mainly of kaolinite with the chemical formula Al₂O₃·2SiO₂·2H₂O, has been a subject of interest since the days of medieval western literature. This interest increased significantly after the advent of a more empirical approach to pharmacology, the establishment of pharmacopoeias, and developments in mineralogy, chemistry, and pharmaceutical technology. The use of kaolin in both pharmaceutical (topical and oral) and cosmetic applications has grown in importance.
Although kaolin has long been recognized as a remedy in traditional medicine, its use as an active ingredient for various diseases continues to be an area of research. Unfortunately, studies focused on the use of kaolin in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics remain somewhat limited. Therefore, this article aims to highlight the role and benefits of kaolin in both fields.
Kaolin has been shown to exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antidiarrheal properties when administered orally, and it serves as a skin-protective agent when used topically. Aside from its role as an active ingredient, kaolin is often used as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, functioning as a filler, emulsifier, suspending agent, and crusher. In the cosmetic industry, kaolin is frequently employed as a sunscreen and for treating the skin.
This article is organized based on a literature review of various articles and journals relevant to the topic.
Keywords: active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, kaolin, cosmetics.
<Access the full report below>