Physicochemical and antistaphylococcal evaluation of two herbal ointments from Mikania micrantha Kunth and Tridax procumbens Linn

Abstract

Objectves: This present work was carried out to formulate and evaluate herbal ointments using Mikania micrantha and Tridax procumbens. Materials and Methods: The extracts were prepared using maceration technique. A simple ointment base was prepared using white soft paraffin and liquid paraffin. The extracts were incorporated into the ointment base following levigation method. The amount of extract to be incorporated into the ointment base was determined according to their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 87. The formulated ointments were evaluated for several physicochemical characteristics like colour, odour, homogeneity, washability, spredability, irritation potential etc. Antistaphylococcal assay was conducted using well diffusion method. Ointment base containing white soft paraffin and liquid paraffin was used as negative control and Supragent containing Gentamicin sulphate was used as a positive control. Results: The formulated ointments showed satisfactory results for tested physicochemical parameters. Both ointments showed moderate antistaphylococcal activity with reference to the activity showed by Supragent. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the formulated ointments can be incorporated into India’s medicine system for treating Staphylococcus aureus induced skin ailments in future. Key words : Mikania micrantha, Tridax procumbens, Herbal ointment, Skin disease