Columbia Technology Ventures

Botanical antimicrobial formula for skin and surface disinfection

This technology is a botanical formula made up of essential oils and fruit acids, whose synergistic combination achieves broad spectrum antimicrobial activity.

Unmet Need: All-natural, non-chemical composition for disinfectants and preservatives

It is vital to keep hospitals and homes clean and sanitary; however, many popular and widely-used disinfectants contain harmful chemicals that are environmentally damaging and harmful to consumers. These harsh antimicrobial agents can be toxic and many of the ingredients in these products can cause adverse health effects such as skin, eye or lung irritation. As such, the expanding need for herbal, non-chemical antimicrobials has become widely prevalent.

The Technology: Natural herbal composition with potent antimicrobial activity

This botanical formula combines essential oils and fruit acids for a synergistic antimicrobial effect. The use of effective essential oils such as, basil, cinnamon, and citronella in addition to citric and lactic acids achieves effective broad spectrum antimicrobial activity, without harsh and dangerous chemical ingredients. As such, this offers an environmentally friendly and safe disinfectant that can be applied to the skin or household and hospital surfaces. The compatibility of the composition also allows safe and effective use as a preservative for cosmetic products.

Applications:

  • Skin disinfectant in the form of soap, lotions, liquids, and creams
  • Household surface disinfectant
  • Health care hand disinfectant and hospital surface cleaner
  • Laundry Detergent
  • Cosmetic product preservative
  • Wound cream
  • Mouthwash and toothpaste
  • Remedy for dermatological conditions

Advantages:

  • Environmentally friendly
  • Reduces harsh side effects
  • Cost-effective
  • Natural, renewable, and bio-degradable
  • Widely applicable
  • Compatible with many modes of delivery

Lead Inventor:

Shanta M. Modak, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Status

Related Publications:

Shintre MS, Gaonkar TA, Modak SM. “Efficacy of an alcohol-based healthcare hand rub containing synergistic combination of farnesol and benzethonium chloride” International Journal of Hygiene and Enviornmental Health. 2006 Sep; 209(5): 477-487.

Tech Ventures Reference: