FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL ANTIMICROBIAL OINTMENT CONTAINING LUFFA AEGYPTIACA LEAF EXTRACT

The need for alternative antimicrobial agents produced from natural sources is increasing due to the rapid evolution of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which has decreased the efficacy of conventional antibiotics. The goal of the current study was to create and assess a herbal antibacterial ointment using Luffa aegyptiaca leaf extract. Using the Soxhlet extraction process and the appropriate solvent ethanol and fresh leaves were gathered, shade-dried, pulverized, and extracted.

The physicochemical characteristics, stability, irritancy, and antibacterial activity of the produced formulations were assessed. The formulations had a pH 5.6, a smooth texture, a distinctive smell, and ease of washing. The results showed good uniformity and simplicity of application, with spreadability ranging from 2.14 to 3 g/cm/sec. Phase separation studies verified acceptable formulation stability, while irritancy testing showed no erythema, edema, or irritation. When compared to tetracycline as the standard, antimicrobial activity assessed by the disc diffusion method showed notable zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (16 mm), Escherichia coli (14 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13 mm), and Candida albicans (12 mm). Antimicrobial activity and physical appearance did not significantly alter during storage, according to stability studies. According to the study's findings, the herbal ointment made with Luffa aegyptiaca leaf extract has promising antibacterial activity and can be regarded as a natural, safe, and affordable substitute for treating topical microbial infections.