Advances in Ginger–Boswellic Acid Nanoemulgels for Enhanced Topical Delivery in Osteoarthritis Management

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degradation and persistent inflammation . The search for safer, more focused therapeutic options is necessary because standard pharmacological treatments, especially oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), carry risks of serious systemic side effects . This review investigates the development of a novel nanoemulgel formulation combining boswellic acid and ginger, two herbal bioactives with strong anti-inflammatory properties. By employing a nanoscopic oil-in-water emulsion within a hydrogel base, the nanoemulgel platform effectively tackles the main challenge of topical delivery—the skin's barrier function . Providing a comprehensive approach to pain and inflammation management. The article also covers important formulation details, such as excipient selection and preparation methods, and gives a summary of crucial characterization tests, such as rheology, particle size, zeta potential, and different efficacy studies . The evidence that is currently available indicates that the ginger-boswellic acid nanoemulgel is a potentially effective non-invasive treatment for osteoarthritis.