Development, Characterization and Evaluation of Phytosomal Gel of Curcumin for the Treatment of Topical Fungal Infection

Abstract

An innovative approach to the delivery of phytoconstituents and plant extracts for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes constitutes a herbal medication delivery system. However, their bioavailability is low because of their high molecular size and low lipid solubility. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) and Curcuma xanthorrhiza oil contain the active component curcumin, also known as diferuloylmethane. This medication can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and fungi, and it can reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar, and speed the healing of wounds. In this study, we created a phytosomal gel containing Curcumin and analyzed its efficacy. Anti-solvent precipitation was used to create Curcumin phytosomes in three separate batches with varying drug-to-soya lecithin ratios. Several tests, including those of yield, solubility, drug content, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release, were conducted on phytosomal formulations. Based on a number of evaluation criteria, the formulation F1 was chosen as the optimal formulation to include into a gel basis of varying proportions utilizing carbopol 940 and PEG400 as polymers. This formulation contained drug extract: soya lecithin in the ratio 1:1. Maximum drug absorption (98.19%) was observed after 8 hours in the improved formulation (G2). 45 days of stability testing was conducted at 40oC ±20oC, 70±5%.RH The drug's potency, pH, dispersibility, extrudability, viscosity, or in-vitro diffusion profile all remained unchanged. The Curcumin phytosomal gel was found to have a superior diffusion and stability profile, making it an appealing vehicle for the delivery of the various phytoconstituents.