Preparation and Evaluation of Ficus racemosa Extract Transdermal Gel for Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Activity

Abstract

Background: Ficus racemosa (FR) belongs to the Moraceae family having different pharmacological activities. The primary aim of the researchers was to examine how varying polymer concentrations affect the outcome, additionally nature of penetration enhancers on microbial growth inhibition, and the protein denaturation inhibition capability of F. racemosa extract (FRE). Method: FRE has been prepared by a simple maceration process. By performing an antimicrobial assay procedure and in-vitro protein denaturation inhibition method, the antimicrobial and protein denaturation capability of the extract has been confirmed. Furthermore, 12 formulations of transdermal gel were developed with polymer (carbopol 934), which was used at non-identical concentrations (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5%) along with three dissimilar kinds of penetration enhancers, i.e., Tween 80, oleic acid, thioglycolic acid at the same concentration (1%). Transdermal gels have been prepared by a dispersion method & evaluated by physical parameters, viscosity, spreadability, pH, skin irritation, drug content, and in-vitro study with Franz diffusion cell. Result: Formulation B3 showed the best results, having a polymer concentration of 1.5% and Tween 80 as a penetration enhancer.