A body lubricating, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory formulation utilizes a mucilage-containing extract derived from a plant such as okra, Abelmoschus esculentus Hibiscus esculentus. The formulation can be provided as a free liquid such as a solution, suspension, foam, gel, cream, ointment, or spray or alternatively impregnated into an absorbent solid article such as a wipe, swab, a bandage or a gauze.
Application of the formulation to a mucosal or external bodily tissue result in the application of a layer of mucilage that lubricates and moisturizes the tissue as well as protects it from external damage from foreign particles and UV irradiation. Application of the formulation to an inflamed tissue provides anti-inflammatory effects. The formulation can be impregnated into a cloth pad to provide an eyelid wipe. The present invention relates generally to the fields of bodily lubrication and minimization of inflammation.
More specifically, the present disclosure provides a formulation comprising plant mucilage for lubricating and moisturizing bodily surfaces, both external and mucosal, and for anti-inflammation. Lubrication plays vital roles in the healthy maintenance of numerous bodily functions. The specific roles vary by the bodily tissue in question. Tears act as a lubricant for the eyes. Normal ocular function is depending on a clear and smooth layer of tears to support critical ocular surface functions.
Tears coat the corneal and conjunctival epithelium to prevent the cells from drying out like those of the skin epithelium, which is a composed of dead cells.
With each blink, the tears reduce surface abrasive effect between the eyelid and the corneal surface. The lack of lubrication on the eyes can lead to symptoms of irritation, scratchiness, dryness, and redness.
