GB2582721A

GB2582721A - Plant extract compositions

Info

Publication number: GB2582721A
Application number: GB2009161.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Catherine Dewar Laura
Original assignee: Phyto Sophos Ltd
Current assignee: Phyto Sophos Ltd
Priority date: 2017-03-30
Filing date: 2017-03-30
Publication date: 2020-09-30
Anticipated expiration: 2037-03-30
Also published as: GB2582721A9; GB202009161D0; GB2582721B8; GB2582721B

Abstract

A composition for topical application comprises a base in an amount of 80% to 99% volume/volume of the composition, and dispersed within the base: (i) elementa silver as a colloidal suspension in an amount of from 1 x 10⁻⁵ to 1 x 10⁻² by weight/volume. The composition also comprises from 0.1% to 10% by weight/volume a combination of Rumex crispus, Arctium Lappa, Trifolium pratense, Symphytum officinale,Echinacea purpurea, Stellaria media, Hypericum perforatum, Calendula officinalis, and Panax ginseng.

Description

PLANT EXTRACT COMPOSITIONS

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition for topical application comprising colloidal silver and a combination of plant extracts, for use as cosmetics.

Background

There are a number of cosmetic skin conditions which may cause distress to humans or animals. Said distress may be due to sensations and an unsightly appearance associated with the condition, such as dry skin, reddening of the skin, itchy skin, irritated skin, chapped skin.

Sufferers presenting with these conditions often wish to alleviate their distress by using some form of remedy for the condition. One option for addressing these conditions may be the use of prescription or over-the-counter pharmaceutical preparations. However, there is a consumer demand for natural remedies, or non-pharmaceutical remedies.

Given that these conditions may affect only a portion of the surface of the body of a sufferer, there is a consumer demand for a local approach of addressing the cosmetic skin condition, rather than a systemic approach. One such suitable approach may be a topical application of a remedy which may reduce or diminish the cosmetic skin condition.

Accordingly, there is a need for compositions suitable for topical application to cosmetic skin conditions which may at least partially alleviate dry skin, reddening of the skin, itchy skin, irritated skin, chaffed skin as appropriate.

Summary

The invention relates to a cosmetic composition as defined in claim 1 and dependent Claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows a subject presenting with an open wound.

Figures 2, 3 and 4 show the variation in appearance of the wound of Figure 1 over time after application of a composition of the present invention to the affected area.

Figures 5 and 6 show the variation in appearance of a nevi over a period of time after application of a composition of the present invention to the affected area. Figure 7 shows a subject presenting with two insect bites on the skin.

Figures 8 and 9 show the variation in appearance of the insect bites of Figure 7 over time after application of a composition of the present invention to the affected area.

Figure 10 shows a subject presenting with an open wound.

Figures 11 and 12 show the variation in appearance of the wound of Figure 10 over time after application of a composition of the present invention to the affected area.

Detailed Description

In the specification and claims, a volume to volume ratio or percentage may be indicated by "(v/v)". A weight to volume ratio or percentage may be indicated by "(w/v)". A weight to weight ratio or percentage may be indicated by "(w/w)". Unless otherwise specified, ratios or percentages are given in relation to the weight or volume of the total composition, as appropriate.

The unit "ppm" refers to "parts per million" and may be used herein to indicate a concentration of a material in a fluid phase. Unless otherwise specified, all values given as ppm are given as weight to volume (w/v) percentages. Accordingly, 1 ppm is equivalent to 1 x 10' % (w/v).

The composition of the present invention is suitable for topical application. That is, the composition may be applied to body surfaces such as the skin. Base

The composition comprises a base, or carrier. The base is used as a vehicle for the other components of the composition. For the avoidance of doubt, the term 'base' as used herein does not mean a Bronsted-Lowry base or a Lewis base.

The base is preferably a water base. The nature of the base may influence the formulation of the composition. For example, a suitable base may comprise water (in particular water purified by distillation, ion exchange, reverse osmosis or any other suitable method), or a mixture of water and Ci-C4 alkanol. A composition comprising such a base may suitably provide a topically applicable aqueous suspension formulation. Depending on the ratio of water to CI-C4 alkanol, a topically applicable aqueous suspension may be more suitable for spray application (that is, the suspension is applied to the skin as droplets in an aerosol), or may be more suitable for manual application (that is, the user applies the suspension to the skin with a cloth, pad, or part of their body, for example their hand).

In another example, a suitable base may be an oil, or emulsion of oil and water. In some embodiments, the base may be an ointment base.

Any suitable ointment base may be used. A suitable ointment base may comprise an oleaginous base. Oleaginous bases typically comprise hard paraffin, soft paraffin (also known as petroleum jelly, petrolatum, white petrolatum or multi-hydrocarbon), microcrystalline wax or ceresine. Such bases are typically anhydrous, or have a low water content. These bases may further comprise a film forming agents to provide a protective film after application to the skin. Suitable film forming agents include polyvinylpyrollidone, polyvinyl alcohol and cellulose derivatives.

Another suitable ointment base may comprise an absorption base (also known as an emulsion base). Absorption ointment bases typically comprise either an oleaginous base as described above and a water-in-oil surfactant, or a hydrophilic oleaginous base, to allow for the formation of a water-in-oil emulsion upon addition of water. Such bases may comprise any of the oleaginous bases described above and/or components selected from: lanolin, beeswax, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate. Examples of appropriate absorption bases include hydrophilic petrolatum, anhydrous lanolin, Aquabase®, Aquaphor® and Polysorb®.

Another suitable ointment base may comprise a water-in-oil emulsion base. Water-in oil emulsion bases typically comprise water and any of the ointment base components described above. In particular, water-in-oil emulsion bases typically comprise a water in-oil surfactant. Examples of appropriate water-in-oil emulsion bases include cold creams, hydrous lanolin, rose water ointment, aqueous cream, HydrocreamO, Eucerin0 and Nivea®.

Another suitable ointment base may comprise an oil-in-water emulsion base. Oil-in water emulsion bases typically comprise water in an amount greater than that in a water in-oil emulsion base, and any of the ointment base components described above. In particular, oil-in-water emulsion bases typically comprise an oil-in-water surfactant. Examples of appropriate oil-in-water emulsion bases include hydrophilic ointment, Dermabase®, Velvachol® and Unibase®.

Another suitable ointment base may comprise a water-miscible ointment base. Water-miscible ointment bases typically comprise a combination of low and high molecular weight polyethylene glycols. Examples of appropriate water-miscible ointment bases include PEG ointment and Polybase0.

A composition comprising such ointment bases as described above may suitably provide topically applicable ointment formulation, or topically applicable cream formulation.

In another example, a suitable base may be a gel. 'Gel' as used herein refers to any dispersion of inorganic or organic molecules in a liquid system wherein there is at least some cross-linking or association between the inorganic or organic molecules. Gels may be prepared by combining a liquid such as water or aqueous C i-C4 alkanol with suitable gelling agent(s), such as carbomers, carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, gelatin, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, methylcellulose, poloxamers, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium alginate, tragacanth" and xanthan gum. A composition comprising such a base may suitably provide a topically applicable gel formulation.

In another example, a suitable base may comprise water and/or CI-C4 alkanol and a propellant. Suitable propellants may include hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, and compressed gases. A composition comprising such a base may suitable provide a topically applicable aerosol formulation.

The base may be present in the composition in any suitable amount Preferably, the base is the majority component of the composition. For example, the base may be present in the composition in an amount of from 80 to 99% (v/v), or 85 to 99% (v/v), or from 90 to 99% (v/v). The base may be present in the composition in an amount less than or equal to 99% (v/v), or 99% (v/v), or 98% (v/v), or 97% (v/v), or 96% (v/v), or 95% (v/v), or 90% (v/v). The base may be present in the composition in an amount greater than or equal to 80% (v/v), 85% (v/v), 90%, 95% (v/v), 96% (v/v), 97% (v/v), 98% (v/v), 99% (v/v).

In a preferred embodiment, the base comprises water. In a particular embodiment, the base essentially consists of water.

Silver The composition also comprises elemental silver as colloidal silver, namely particulate elemental silver dispersed within the base as a colloidal suspension. The silver is present in an amount from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm, preferably from 0.5 ppm to 50 ppm, or from 1 ppm to 10 ppm, or from 5 ppm to 10 ppm; that is, from 1 x 10-5 to 1 x 10-2 % (w/v), or preferably from 5 x 1 to 5 x 10' (w/v), or from 1 x 104 to 1 x 10'3 % (w/v), or from x 104 to 1 x 10' % (w/v). The silver may be present in the composition in an amount less than or equal to 100 ppm, or 50 ppm, or 10 ppm; that is, less than or equal to 1 x 10' 2 % (w/v), or 5 x 10' % (w/v), or 1 x 10' % (w/v).The silver may be present in the composition in an amount greater than or equal to 0.1 ppm, or 0.5 ppm, or 1 ppm; that is, greater than or equal to 1 x 10-5% (w/v), or 5 x 10-5% (w/v), or 1 x 10' % (w/v). Suitably, the silver may be present in the composition in an amount of approximately 5 ppm; that is, 5 x 10' % (w/v).

Plant extract Compositions according to the present invention comprise plant extract. A plant extract refers to a substance that has been removed from plant material. Plant extracts may be prepared by treating any plant material with an extractant to extract at least some components of the plant material from the plant material into the extractant. Extractant may be referred to as solvent. The resulting extractant containing at least some components extracted from the plant material is referred to herein as "plant extract". Put another way, "plant extract" may refer to components removed from plant material by treating the plant material with an extractant.

The plant material which is treated with extractant to provide a plant extract may be or derive from any part of a plant, for example, the leaves, bark, roots, seeds or fruits of the plant. In the preparation of plant extract, the plant components extracted from the plant material will be at least partially soluble or suspendable in the extractant. After the plant material has been treated with the extractant, the insoluble plant material may be left in the extractant, or the insoluble plant material may be separated from the extractant. The insoluble plant material may be separated from the extractant according to any appropriate method, for example, decantation, filtration or centrifugation. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the insoluble plant material has been separated from the extractant; the plant extract does not comprise insoluble components. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the plant extract is prepared by cold percolation extraction. Cold percolation extraction includes placing plant material in a perforated flask or vessel, and treating the plant material with cold extractant. The resulting plant extract will pass through the perforation, leaving the insoluble and/or insuspendable plant material in the flask or vessel.

Suitable plant extract extractants include any which may be used to extract components from the plant material; that is, any extractant in which at least some of the components of the plant material are soluble or suspendable. In one embodiment, the extractant may comprise a Ci-C4 alkanol. Suitable Ci-C.4 alkanols include methanol, ethanol, npropanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, isobutanol, sec-butanol, and ter*t-butanol. In one embodiment, the extractant may comprise methanol and/or ethanol. In a particular embodiment, the extractant may comprise ethanol.

In another embodiment, the extractant may comprise acetic acid, glycerine (in particular vegetable glycerine), propylene glycol, honey, or water. Plant extracts may be prepared with hot water or cold water.

The extractant may comprise a combination of extractants. For example, the extractant may comprise a combination of any of the extractants given above. In a particular embodiment, the extractant may comprise water and a C 1-Ca alkanol. Such a combination may be referred to as an aqueous CI-C4 alkanol. In a preferred embodiment, the extractant comprises water and ethanol. Such a combination may be referred to as aqueous ethanol.

In a further embodiment, the extractant may essentially consist of any one of the extractants given above, or a combination thereof In a particular embodiment, the extractant may consist of water and a C1-C4 alkanol. In a preferred embodiment, the extractant consists of water and ethanol.

Aqueous ethanol may have any appropriate ethanol content. For example, the aqueous ethanol may have an ethanol content of from 5 to 95% (v/v), 10 to 90% (v/v), 20 to 80% (v/v), 30 to 70% (v/v), or 40 to 60% (v/v). The aqueous ethanol may have an ethanol content of greater than or equal to 5% (v/v), 10% (v/v), 20% (v/v), 30% (v/v), 40% (v/v), 50% (v/v), 60% (v/v), 70% (v/v), 80% (Of), 90% (v/v), or 95% (v/v). The aqueous ethanol may have an ethanol content of less than or equal to 95% (v/v), 90% (v/v), 80% (v/v), 70% (v/v), 60% (v/v), 50% (v/v), 40% (v/v), 30% (v/v), 20% (v/v), 10% (v/v), or 5% (v/v).

The plant extracts suitable for use in the present invention are prepared by treating plant material with extractant in any appropriate ratio. For example, plant extracts for use in the present invention may be prepared by treating plant material with extractant in a ratio of from 1:1 to 1:12 (w/v) plant material to extractant.

Plant extracts suitable for use in the present invention may be referred to by a variety of names. Plant extracts suitable for use in the present invention particularly include products which may commercially be referred to as extracts (typically an aqueous ethanol extraction of plant material carried out in a ratio of approximately 1:1 (w/v) plant material to extractant), tinctures (typically an aqueous ethanol extraction of plant material carried out in a ratio of approximately 1:3 to 1:5 (w/v) plant material to extractant), mother tinctures (typically an aqueous ethanol extraction of plant material carried out in a ratio of approximately 1:9 (w/v) plant material to extractant), and tisanes such as infusions (typically a hot water extraction of plant material), decoctions (typically an aqueous extraction of plant material carried out in boiling water over an extended period of time) and macerations (typically an extraction of chopped plant material in cold water).

Plant extracts suitable for use with the present invention may be purchased from the vendor G Baldwin & Co. In some embodiments, the plant extract is an extractant-free extract. That is, a plant extract has been prepared according to the above methods, and then the extractant has been removed to leave a dry substance. The dry substance may correspond to the plant components extracted from the plant material or derivatives thereof only.

The composition of the present invention is a combination of all nine plant extracts of from Rumex crispus (also known as curly dock, or yellow dock), Arctium lappa ( also known as burdock, or greater burdock), Trilblium pralense (also known as red clover), Symphylum qfficinale (also known as comfrey, in particular, common comfrey), Ethinacea purpurea, Stellaria media (also known as chickweed), Hipericum perfi)ralum (also known as St John's wort), Calendula qfficinalis (also known as common marigold), and l'anax ginseng.

The composition contains only the plant extracts recited hereinabove and no other plant extracts.

Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the combinations of plant extracts with colloidal silver as described herein may provide an alternative or better effect than the corresponding cumulative effect of the plant extracts or colloidal silver used individually.

Given that the plant extract in the composition described herein is an extract from a combination of plants, it may be referred to as 'the plant extract combination'.

Plant extract from a combination of plants is provided as a combination of extracts from individual plants. In embodiments comprising a combination of extracts from individual plants, the extracts from individual plants may be referred to as components of the plant extract combination.

The composition comprises plant extract in an amount from 0.1% to 10% (w/v), preferably 0.25% to 5% (w/v), or 0.5% to 2.5% (w/v), or 0.75% to 2% (wiv). The plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount less than or equal to 10% (w/v), 5% (w/v), 2.5% (w/v), 2% (w/v), or 1.5% (w/v). The plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount greater than or equal to 0.1% (w/v), or 0.25% (w/v), or 0.5% (w/v), or 0.75% (w/v), or 1% (w/v).

In embodiments wherein the plant extract is provided as a combination of extracts from individual plants, each component of the plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount of from 0.05% to 10% (w/v), or 0.1% 20 to 5% (w/v), or 0.25% to 2.5% (w/v), or 0.5% to 2% (w/v), or 0.6% (w/v) to 1% (w/v). Each component of the plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount less than or equal to 10% (w/v), 5% (w/v), 2.5% (w/v), 2% (w/v), or 1.5% (w/v), or 1% (w/v). Each component of the plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount greater than or equal to 0.05% (w/v), or 0.1% (w/v), or 0.25% (w/v), or 0.5% 25 (w/v), or 0.6% (w/v), or 0.75% (w/v).

In embodiments wherein the plant extract is provided as an extractant-free plant extract, each component of the extractant-free plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount of from 0.01% to 1% (w/v), or 0.025% to 0.5% (w/v), or 0.05% to 0.25% (w/v), or 0.075% to 0.2% (w/v). The plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount less than or equal to 1% (w/v), 0.5% (w/v), 0.25% (w/v), 0.211-1) (w/v), or OA 5% (w/v). The plant extract may be present in the composition in an amount greater than or equal to 0.01% (w/v), or 0.025% (w/v), or 0.05% (w/v), or 0.075% (w/v), or 0.1% (w/v).

Plant extracts from individual plants may be combined in any ratio relative to each other to provide the plant extract combination. In some embodiments, the ratio between the component of the plant extract combination present in the largest amount and the component of the plant extract combination present in the smallest amount may be less than 10:1 (w/w), less than 8:1 (w/w), less than 6:1 (w/w), or less than 4:1 (w/w).

Use of composition The composition of the present invention may be suitable for use with humans. For example, the composition may be suitable for application to the skin of a human body. The composition may also be suitable for use with non-human animals. For example, the composition may be suitable for application to the skin, hair and/or coat of animals. The composition may be suitable for application to the skin, hair and/or coat of non-human animals such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and non-human mammals. The composition may be suitable for application to the skin, hair and/or coat of household pets such as cats, dogs, rabbits, lizards, snakes, parrots, budgerigars and the like. Additionally, the composition may be suitable for application to the skin, hair and/or coat of farmyard animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, horses, goats, donkeys and the like.

The composition of the present invention is a cosmetic composition. For instance, the composition may be applied to dry skin, reddened skin, itchy skin, chaffed skin, chapped skin, dry scaly patches.

The present invention relates to a non-therapeutic cosmetic method. Said method comprises providing a composition as described herein, selecting an area of the body to which the composition should be applied, and topically applying the composition to the selected area. For example, the method may comprise providing a composition as described herein, selecting an area of dry skin, and applying said composition to the surface of the dry skin. Alternatively, the method may comprise providing the composition as described herein, selecting an area of reddened skin, any applying said composition to the surface of the reddened skin.

The composition may also be used for providing the user with a sensation at the skin. For example, application of the composition to the skin may result in the user perceiving a soothing and/or cooling sensation.

The composition of the present invention may be provided to the user in any form. For example, the composition may be provided alone, or in combination with a form of application. For example, a porous sheet impregnated with a composition may be referred to as a "wet wipe".

Specific combinations of components The composition comprises water in an amount of from 80 to 99.9% (v/v). The composition also comprises a combination of elemental silver as a colloidal suspension in an amount of from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm (that is, 1 x 10-5 to 1 x 10-2 % (w/v)) and all nine plant extracts consisting of Rumex cri,spus, Arctium lappa, pratense, Symphytum officinale, Echinacea purpurea, Stellaria media, Hypericum perfbratum, (.7alendula officinal's, and Pattax ginseng. The plant extract is present in the composition in an amount of from 0.1% to 10% (w/v).

In a further embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of elemental silver as a colloidal suspension in an amount of from 1 x 10' % to 1 x 10' % (w/v), and all nine plant extracts consisting of from Rumex crispus, Arctium lappa,Trifiilitt pratense, Symphytum officinale, Echinacea purpurea, Stellaria media, Hypericum perfbratum, Calendula officinal' s, and Panay ginseng in an amount of from 0.1% to 10% (w/v), and water as the remainder of the composition.

Methods of preparing composition The composition according to the present invention may be manufactured according to any suitable method. One appropriate method is to provide plant extract from all nine plants consisting of Rumex crispus, Articum Lappa Trifoliarnz pratense, Symphytum officinale, Echinacea purpurea, Stellaria media, Hypericum perforatum, Calendula officinal's, and Panay ginseng. The method further comprises providing a colloidal suspension of silver in a base, the silver content of the colloidal suspension being of from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm (that is, 1 x % to 1 x 10' % (w/v) of the base). The plant extract and colloidal suspension are then combined to provide a composition for topical application.

The base may be any of those described herein. In one embodiment, the base is water.

The plant extract and colloidal suspension of silver may be combined in any appropriate ratio. In one embodiment, they are combined in a ratio of from 1:1(w/v) plant extract to colloidal suspension, or from 1:3 (w/v) plant extract to colloidal suspension In one embodiment, they are combined in a ratio of around 1:9 (w/v) plant extract to colloidal suspension of silver.

Examples

Examples 1 to 14 do not all embody the claimed invention. They relate to topically applicable compositions comprising plant extracts prepared by extracting plant material with aqueous ethanol in a ratio of 1:1 weight/volume plant material to aqueous ethanol. The proportion of ethanol to water in the aqueous ethanol (i.e. the ethanol content) for each extract is as follows:

Table 1

Plant material % ethanol to water (v/v) Equis tum arvense 25% Rumex crispus 45% Arctium lappa 45% Trifolium pratense 45% Chelidoniztm majus 45% Thuja occidentalis 45% Unica dioica 45% Symphytum officinale 45% Mahonia aqtalblium 45% Echinacea putpurea 45% Stellaria media 45% Gallant (panne 45% Aloe vera 60% Matricaria rectaita 45% Hypericum perforatum 60% Calendula officinalis 90% Panar ginseng 45%

Example 1

This is an example of a composition for applying to blisters.

Aqueous extracts of Equisetum unwise (0.20 mL), Symphytum officinale (0 40 mL), Ifahonia aquifblium (0.20 mL), Matricaria recutita (0 20 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.12 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.20 mL), and Panay ginseng (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition

Example 2

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin blemishes.

Aqueous extracts ofAra/um lappa (0.20 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.40 mL), Stellaria media (0.20 mL), Matricaria reczttita (0.20 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.12 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.12 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 3

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin burns.

Aqueous extracts of Symphytum officinale (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0 12 mL), Aloe vera (0.20 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.20 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.20 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.20 m L), and Panay ginseng (0.28 m L) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 4

This is an example of a composition for applying to eczema.

Aqueous extracts of Equiselnin an,ense (0.20 mL), Rumex crispus (0.20 mL), Arctium lappa (0.08 mL), Trifohum pratense (0.28 mL), Chelidonium mapts (0.08 mL), Thuja occidentalis (0.08 mL), Unica dioica (0.12 mL), Symphytum officinale (0 20 mL), Alahonia aquifolium (0.20 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL), Stellaria media (0.28 mL), Galium aparine (0.28 mL), Aloe vera (0.20 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.20 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.12 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.12 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 5

This is an example of a composition for applying to cuts.

Aqueous extracts of Equisetum an'ense (0.20 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL), Stellaria media (0.12 mL), Aloe vera (0 20 mL), Mairicaria recut ita (0.12 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.12 mL), Calendula officnialis (0.28 mL), and Panay ginseng (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 6

This is an example of a composition for applying to Tinea pedis (Athlete's Foot). Aqueous extracts of Chelidonium mcy.us (0.04 mL), Thuja occidentalis (0 20 mL), Echinacea putpurea (0.12 mL), Gahm aparine (0.40 mL), Alatricariarecutita (0.40 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.12 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 7

This is an example of a composition for applying to sunburn.

Aqueous extracts of Galium aparine (0.20 mL) Aloe vera (0.28 mL), Alatricaria rectal la (0.20 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.28 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 8

This is an example of a composition for applying to moles.

Aqueous extracts of Chelidonium majus (0.12 mL), Thief(' occidentalis (0.28 mL), Mahonia aquitblium (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.30 mL), Matricaria recutita (0 20 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 9

This is an example of a composition for applying to insect bites.

Aqueous extracts of Arcti urn lappa (0.20 mL), Urtica dioica (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.28 mL), Stelbria media (0.20 mL), Matricetria recutita (0.12 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.20 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 10

This is an example of a composition for applying to irritant diaper dermatitis.

Aqueous extracts of Unica dioica (0.20 mL), Symphytum offIcinale (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.28 mL), Ste Ilaria media (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.28 mL),114atricaria recutita (0.28 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 11

This is an example of a composition for use in the treatment of contact dermatitis related to incontinence.

Aqueous extracts of Unica dicky (0.20 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL), klahonict aquifolium (0.12 mL), Stellaria media (020 mL), Aloe vera (0.28 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.28 mL), Hypericunt pet-Ibrahim (0.20 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.28 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.28 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 12

This is an example of a composition for applying to the skin of household pets.

Aqueous extracts of Rumex crispus (0.20 mL), Arctium lappet (0.20 mL), Trifolium pratense (0.20 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.12 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL), Ste! laria media (0.12 mL), Hypericu m petforaium (0.12 mL), Calendula of fici nal is (0.12 mL), and Pancnc ginseng (0.12 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 13

This is an example of a composition suitable to be provided in combination with a form of application, such as a porous sheet impregnated with the composition.

Aqueous extracts of Unica dioica (0.20 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.28 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL)"Sytellaria media (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.28 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.28 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0 28 mL), were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Example 14

This is an example of a composition suitable to be provided in combination with a form of application, such as a porous sheet impregnated with the composition, wherein the composition is suitable for use with household pets.

Aqueous extracts of Rumex crispus (0.20 mL), Arctium lappet (0.20 mL), Trifolium pratense (0.20 mL)"cymphytum officinale (0.12 mL), Echinacect purpurea (0.20 mL), Stellaria media (0.12 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.12 mL), and Calendulct officinalis (0.12 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Examples 15 to 28 do not all embody the claimed invention. They relate to topically applicable compositions comprising mother tinctures prepared by extracting plant material with aqueous ethanol in a ratio of 1:9 weight/volume plant material to aqueous ethanol. The proportion of ethanol to water in the aqueous ethanol (i.e. the ethanol content) for each extract is as follows:

Table 2

Plant material % ethanol to water (v/v) Equisetum arvense 52% Rumex crispus 49% Arctium lappa 53% l'rifolium pratense 63% Chelidonium menus 62% Thttja occidentalis 64% Unica diolea 49% S:ymphylum officinale 41% Mahonia aquifbhum 69% Echinacea purpurea 64% Stellaria media 50% Callum aparine 49% Aloe vera 0% Matricaria recutita 65% Hypericum perlbratztm 65% Calendula afficinalis 64% Panax ginseng 89%

Example 15

This is an example of a composition for applying to blisters.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Equisehun arvense (0.32 mL), Symphylum officinale (0.40 mL), Mahonia aquifilium (0.32 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.32 mL), Hypericum petfiyaittni (0.20 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.32 mL), and Panax ginseng (0 20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 16

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin blemishes.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Arctium lappa (0.32 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.40 mL), Stellaria media (0.32 mL), Alatricaria rectal ta (0.32 mL), Hypericum per tbratum (0.20 mL), and Calendula officinal's (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 17

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin burns.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Symphytum officinale (0.40 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.32 mL), Matricaricr recutita (0 32 mL), Hypericum per/bran:in (0.32 mL), Calendula officinal's (0.32 mL), and Pcmax ginseng (0 40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 18

This is an example of a composition for applying to eczema.

Aqueous ethanol extracts ofEquisehun arrense (0.32 mL), 1?umex crispus (0 32 mL), Arctrum lappa (0.08 mL), Trifblium pratense (0.40 mL), Chelidomum majus (0 08 mL) Thuja occidental's (0.08 mL), Urtica choicer (0.20 mL)"iymphytum officinale (0.32 mL), Mahonia aquifblium (0.32 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0 20 mL), Stellaria medic; (0.40 mL), Gahm)? aparine (0.40 mL), Aloe vera (0.32 mL),Matricaria recutita (0 3mL), Hypericum perfbratum (0.20 mL), Calendula afficinalis (0.20 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.32 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 19

This is an example of a composition for applying to cuts.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Equisetum arvense (0.32 mL), Symphyium officinale (0.40 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.32 mL), Stellaria media (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.32 mL), klatricaria recutita. (0.20 mL), Hypericum perfbratum (0.20 mL), Calendula. officinalis (0.40 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL. by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 20

This is an example of a composition for applying to Tinea pedis (Athlete's Foot). Aqueous ethanol extracts of Chelidonium maims (0.12 mL), Thuja occidentalis (0.32 mL), Echinacect purpurea (0.20 mL), Galium aparine (0.40 mL), Matricariet recutita (0.40 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.20 mL), and Calendula off icinalis (0 40 mL), were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 21

This is an example of a composition for applying to sunburn.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Guinan aparine (0.32 mL), Aloe vera (0.40 mL),Matricaria recutila (0.32 mL), Hypericum perfiffamin (0.40 mL), Calendula officinally (0.40 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.32 mL), were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 22

This is an example of a composition for applying to moles.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Chelidonium majus (0.20 mL), Duda occidental's (0.40 mL), Alahonia aquijblium (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.20 mL), Alatricaria recut' la (0.20 mL), and Calendula officinally (0.40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 23

This is an example of a composition for applying to insect bites.

Aqueous ethanol extracts ofArclinin lappa (0.32 mL), Unica dioica (0 40 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.40 mL), Stellaria media (0.32 mL), Matricaria recut' la (0.20 mL), Hypericum pelf bratum (0.32 mL), and Calendula officinally (0 40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 24

This is an example of a composition for applying to irritant diaper dermatitis.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Unica dioica (0.32 mL), Symphytum officinale (0 40 mL), Echinaceapurpurea (0.32 mL), Stellaria media (0.32 mL), Aloe vera (0 40 mL), Alatricaria recutita (0.40 mL), and Calendula officinal's (0 40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 25

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Unica dioica (0.32 mL), 5:vmphytum of ficinale (0 40 mL), Afahonia aquiplium (0.20 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.40 mL), Stellaria media (0.32 mL), Aloe vera (0.32 mL), Alatricaria recutita (0.40 mL), Hypericum perfbratum (0.32 mL), Calendula officinal's (0.32 mL), and Panax ginseng (0 40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 26

This is an example of a composition for applying to the skin of household pets.

Aqueous ethanol extracts of R11171eX crisp's (0.32 mL), Arc:limn lappa (0.32 mL), Tref& ium protease (0.32 mL), ,Symphyittin officinale (0.20 mL), Eche nacea purpurea (0.32 mL), Ste I!aria media (0.20 mL), Hypericum per:Ibrahim (0.20 mL), Calendula officinal's (0.20 mL), and Punta ginseng (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 27

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Unica dioiat (0.20 mL)"Sjimphytuin officinal& (0 40 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.32 mL), Sitellaria media (0.32 mL), Aloe vera (0.40 mL), Afatricaria recutita (0.40 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.40 mL), were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Example 28

Rumen crisp's (0.32 mL), Arctium lappa (0.32 mL), Trifohum pralense (0 32 mL), Symphytum officinal& (0.20 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.32 mL)"ctellaria media (0.20 mL), Alatricaria recutita (0.20 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Examples 29 to 42 do not all embody the claimed invention. They relate to topically applicable compositions comprising plant tinctures prepared by extracting plant material with aqueous ethanol in a ratio of 1:3 weight/volume plant material to aqueous ethanol. The proportion of ethanol to water in the aqueous ethanol (i.e. the ethanol content) for each extract is that as given in Table 1 hereinabove.

Example 29

This is an example of a composition for applying to blisters.

Aqueous extracts of EgitiseWm arvense (0.60 mL), Symphyntm officinale (0.40 mL), Afahonia aquifblitun (0.60 mL), Matricaria recutita (0 60 mL), Hypericum peifiyatum (0.40 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.60 mL), and Panay ginseng (0.20 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 30

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin blemishes.

Aqueous extracts of Arciinin lappa (0.60 mL), Eche nacea putpurea (0 40 mL), Stellaria media (0.60 mL), Alwricaria recutita (0.60 mL), Hypericum perlbratum (0.40 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 31

This is an example of a composition for applying to skin burns.

Aqueous extracts of Symphytum officinale (0.80 mL), Echinacea putpurea (0.40 mL), Aloe vera (0.60 mL),Ilatricaria recutita (0 60 mL), Hypericum perlbratum (0.60 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.60 mL), and Pamir ginseng (0.80 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 32

This is an example of a composition for applying to eczema.

Aqueous extracts of Equisetum arvense (0.60 mL), Rumex crispus (0.60 mL), Arctium lappa (0.04 mL), Trifolium pratense (0.80 mL), Chelidonium majzcs (0.04 mL), Thitja occidental's (0.04 mL), Unica dioica (0.40 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.60 mL), Mahonia aqui/61nm; (0.60 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.20 mL)"Viellaria medic, (0.80 mL), Gainful aparine (0.80 mL), Aloe vera (0.60 mL), Matricaria recutita (0 60 mL), Hypericum pelf bratum (0.40 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.40 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.60 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 33

This is an example of a composition for applying to cuts.

Aqueous extracts of'Equisetum arvense (0.60 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.80 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.60 mL), Stellaria media (0.40 mL), Aloe vera (0.60 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.40 mL), Hypericum perlbratum (0.40 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.80 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.80 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 34

This is an example of a composition for applying to Tinea pedis (Athlete's Foot).

Aqueous extracts of Chelidonium majus (0.20 mL), Thiqa occidental's (0.60 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.40 mL), Galium aparine (0.40 mL), Matricaria recutita (0.40 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.40 mL), and Calendula afficinalis (0.80 mL) were 30 combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 35

This is an example of a composition for applying to sunburn.

Aqueous extracts of Callum ctparine (0.60 mL) Aloe vera (0.80 mL), Alatricaria recutita (0.60 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.80 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.80 mL), and Palma ginseng (0.60 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 36

This is an example of a composition for applying to moles.

Aqueous extracts of Chelidonittm majus (0.40 mL), Thula occidental's (0.80 mL), Alahonia aquifblitun (0.20 mL), Aloe vera (0.20 mL), Matricaria recut' la (0 20 mL), and Calendula officinal's (0.80 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 37

This is an example of a composition for applying to insect bites.

Aqueous extracts of Arcnum lappa (0.60 mL), Unica dioica (0.80 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.80 mL), S'tellaria media (0.60 mL), Alatricaria recutita (0 40 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.60 mL), and Calendula officinal's' (0.60 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 38

This is an example of a composition for applying to Irritant diaper dermatitis. Aqueous extracts of Unica dioica (0.60 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.80 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.60 mL), Stellaria media (0.60 mL), Aloe vera (0.80 mL), Alatricaria recut ta (0.80 mL), and Calendula officinal's (0 80 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 39

Aqueous extracts of Unica dioica (0.60 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.80 mL), Mahoiiia aquifolium (0.40 mL), Echinacea prnpurea (0.80 mL), Stellaria media (0.60 mL), Aloe rera (0.60 mL), Alairicaria recut eta (0.80 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.60 mL), Calendula officinalis (0.60 mL), and Panax ginseng (0 80 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 40

This is an example of a composition for applying to the skin of household pets.

Aqueous extracts of Rumex crisp's' (0.60 mL), Arca!! m lappa (0.60 mL), frifblium pratense (0.60 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.40 mL), Echinacea purpurect (0.60 mL), Stellaria media (0.40 mL), Hypericum perforatum (0.40 mL), Calendula qfficinalis (0.40 mL), and Panax ginseng (0.40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a topically applicable composition.

Example 41

Aqueous extracts of Unica dioica (0.60 mL)"Slymphytran officinale (0.80 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0.60 mL)"ctelIctrict media (0.60 mL), Aloe vera (0.80 mL), Alatricarict recutita (0.80 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.80 mL), were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Example 42

Aqueous extracts of Rumex crispus (0.60 mL), Arciium lappa (0.60 mL), Trifolium pratense (0.60 mL), Symphytum officinale (0.40 mL), Echinacea purpurea (0 60 mL), Siellaria media (0.40 mL),Alatricaria recutita (0.40 mL), and Calendula officinalis (0.40 mL) were combined in a vessel. The extract combination was then made up to 100 mL by the addition of 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver to provide a composition. A porous sheet was treated with the resulting composition to provide a porous sheet impregnated with the composition (a "wet wipe").

Description of embodiments with reference to the Figures Figure 1 shows a subject 100 with an area of unbroken skin 110. A localised area of skin 120 presents with an open wound U2. This picture of subject 100 was taken at 15:00 on Day 0 of a test period, prior to application of the composition described herein below A composition consisting of aqueous extracts of Equisetum arvense, Symphytztm officinale, Echinacea purpurea, Stelktriti media, Aloe vera, Matricaria recutita, Hypericum perforalum, Calendu la off icinalis, and Par ginseng in a ratio of 3:4:3:2:3:2:2:4:4 (w/w) in 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver was prepared (corresponding to Example 33). The area of skin 120 containing the wound was selected, and the composition topically applied to the selected area. Said composition was regularly applied to the area 120 through a test period of 8 days.

Figure 2 is a picture of subject 100 taken at 10:22 on Day 3 of the test period. The open wound 102 in area 120 has scabbed to provide a scabbed wound 124.

Figure 3 is a picture of the subject 100 taken at 16:26 on Day 6 of the test period, showing a decrease in the size of scabbed wound 124 in area 120 to provide a scabbed wound 126.

Figure 4 is a picture of the Subject 100 on Day 8 of the test period. Scabbed wound 124 in area 120 has healed completely to provide new skin 128. New skin 128 in the area of skin 120 on Day 8 resembles the unbroken 110. Thus, Figures 1 to 4 demonstrate that regular application of a composition of the present invention to an open wound may result in an increased rate of healing of the wound.

In another example, a subject 200 presented with a nevi (mole) in a localised area of skin 220. The nevi was roughly circular in shape, had a darker pigmentation compared with the surrounding normal skin tone, and protruded from the surface of the skin. A composition consisting of aqueous extracts of Chelidonium mains, Thuja occidemalis, Mahonia aquifolim, Aloe vera, Matricaria recutita, and Calendu la officinalis in a ratio of 2:4:1:1:1:4 (w/w) in 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver was prepared (corresponding to Example 36). The area of skin 220 containing the nevi was selected, and the composition topically applied to the selected area. Said composition was regularly applied to the selected area through a test period of 95 days.

Figure 5 is a picture of subject 200 taken on Day 80 of the test period. Subject 200 has an area of normal skin tone 210. The localised area of the skin 220 presents with a portion of darker pigmentation 222 compared to the normal skin tone 210. The darker pigmentation 222 also protrudes from the surrounding normal skin 210. The size of the nevi, the pigmentation of the area 220, and the protrusion of the nevi from the skin are reduced compared with the appearance of the nevi prior to application of the composition. In particular, localised area of skin 220 now contains normal skin tone 212, whereas on Day 0 this area was part of the nevi.

Figure 6 is a picture representing the appearance of Subject 200 on Day 95 of the test period. The pigmentation of the skin 222 has substantially decreased; the pigmentation of the skin 222 in the area of the body 220 now resembles the normal skin tone 210, and area of skin 220 now contains only skin of normal skin tone 214. Further, there is now no protrusion from the body. Thus, Figures 5 and 6 demonstrate that regular application of a composition of the present invention to a nevi may result in a reduction in the pigmentation and physical protrusion of the nevi.

Figure 7 shows a subject 300 with a normal skin tone 310. Localised areas of skin 320 and 330 present with recently inflicted mosquito bites, resulting in reddened and raised skin 322 and 332. This picture of subject 300 was taken prior to topical application of the composition described herein below A composition consisting of aqueous extracts of Arctittm lappa, Urtica thoica, Echinacea pmpurea, Siellaria media, Mairicaria recuina, Hypericum peiforaium, and Calendula officinal's., in a ratio of 3:4:4:3:2:3:3 (w/w) in 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver was prepared (corresponding to Example 37). The areas of skin 320 and 330 presenting with insect bites were selected, and the composition topically applied to the selected areas. Said composition was regularly applied (three times-daily) to the areas 320 and 330 through a test period of 24 hours.

Figure 8 is a picture of the subject 300 taken after 6 hours of the test period. Reddened and raised skin 324 and 334 is decreased in size compared with reddened and raised skin 322 and 332. Reddened and raised skin 324 and 334 is of a skin tone more similar to normal skin tone 310 than reddened and raised skin 322 and 332.

Figure 9 is a picture of the subject 300 taken after 24 hours of the test period. Reddened and raised skin 326 and 336 is yet further decreased in size compared with reddened and raised skin 324 and 334. Reddened and raised skin 326 and 336 is of a skin tone even more similar to normal skin tone 310 than reddened and raised skin 324 and 334. Subject 300 also reported a perceived reduction in the itching sensation provided by the mosquito bite after application of the said composition.

Thus, Figures 7 to 9 demonstrate that regular application of a composition of the present invention to an insect bite, in particular a mosquito bite, may result in a reduction in the size, reddening and itchiness of an insect bite.

Figure 10 shows a subject 400 with unbroken skin 410. Localised area of skin 420 contains a recently inflicted open wound. Localised area of skin 420 contains two smaller areas 430 and 440. Area 430 contains a portion of open wound 432; area 440 contains a portion of scabbed wound 442. This picture of subject 400 was taken at 09:30 on Day 0 of a test period prior to topical application of the composition described herein below A composition consisting of aqueous extracts of Equisetum arvense, Symphylum officinale, Echinacea pm-puma, Stellariti media, Aloe vera, Matricaria recutita, Hypericum perfbrain in, Calendula affici nails, and Pan ginseng in a ratio of 3:4:3:2:3:2:2:4:4 (w/w) in 5 ppm aqueous colloidal silver was prepared (corresponding to Example 33). The area of skin 420 containing the wound was selected, and the composition topically applied to the selected area. Said composition was regularly applied to the areas 420 for the first 5 days of a test period of 10 days.

Figure 11 is a picture of the subject 400 taken at 10:12 on Day 3 of the test period. The portion of open wound 432 in area 430 has scabbed to provide portion of scabbed wound 434 in area 430. The portion of scabbed wound 442 in area 440 has reduced in size to provide portion of scabbed wound 444 in area 440. The inflammation surrounding portions of wound 434 and 444 in area 420 is reduced compared with that shown in Figure 10.

Figure 12 is a picture representing the appearance of Subject 400 at 11:17 on Day 10 of the test period. The portion of scabbed wound 434 in area 430 has healed to provide new skin 436 in area 430. The portion of scabbed wound 444 in area 440 has healed to provide new skin 446 in area 440. A wound of this magnitude inflicted on subject 400 would not usually be expected to heal within 10 days. Thus, Figures 10 to 12 demonstrate that regular application of the composition of the present invention to a wound may result in an increased rate of healing of the wound. FIG 1

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