The Efficacy of a Topical Antifungal Preparation from Hibiscus sabdariffa: A Formulation and In-vitro Analysis

Background

Fungal infections are a growing global health concern, necessitating the development of safer and more effective antifungal therapies. Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle) is a medicinal plant traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties, attributed to bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. This study aims to formulate and evaluate a herbal antifungal cream incorporating H. sabdariffa ethanolic extract as a natural alternative to synthetic antifungal agents.

Materials and Methods

The ethanolic extract of H. sabdariffa calyces was prepared using Soxhlet extraction and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Cream formulations were prepared using Beeswax, Cetyl alcohol, Glycerine, and Essential oils as the base, incorporating varying concentrations of the extract. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, spreadability, stability, and viscosity, were evaluated. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans was determined by the agar well diffusion method, and inhibition zones were measured. Stability studies were conducted over four weeks at controlled conditions to assess colour, odour, and phase separation.

Results

Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. The prepared creams exhibited pH values within the ideal topical range (4.5-6.5), good spreadability, and no phase separation during the stability study. Antifungal testing revealed concentration-dependent inhibition of C. albicans, with higher extract concentrations producing larger inhibition zones, comparable to standard antifungal agents. No significant changes in physicochemical properties were observed during the four-week stability study.

Conclusion

The H. sabdariffa-based herbal cream demonstrated promising antifungal activity and stability, suggesting its potential as a safe and effective natural alternative to conventional antifungal formulations. Further in vivo investigations are warranted to confirm its therapeutic efficacy and safety for clinical use in managing fungal skin infections.