Preformulation and formulation studies of the alcoholic extract of Punica granatum L., (Lythraceae) exocarp as antimicrobial ointment

Author: Anna Muriel T. Jacinto, Jose Rennel M. Talavera, Catherine B. Galvez

Category: Pharmacy

Abstract:

Punica granatum L., (Lythraceae) is commonly known as pomegranate and contains various pharmacological property among which is its antimicrobial property. The objective of the study was to formulate an antimicrobial ointment. Methods used include physicochemical evaluation, microbial assay, compatibility of excipients, formulation, quality control and stability test of the ointment. Results revealed that the extract was a dark brown colored powder with like bark odor, disagreeable taste, acidic (pH 3), lighter than water (< 1.0 density), melts at 117.10__degreesignC and was soluble in the following solvents: 95% ethanol, 0.1 N HCl, 0.1 N NaOH, 0.9% NaCl, phosphate buffer solutions (pH 4, 7 __ampersandsign 10) and petroleum ether. Furthermore, it was most sensitive to Staphylococcus aureus (28 mm) followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes (23 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus niger (22 mm) while least sensitive to Candida albicans (8 mm). The formulated ointment passed the quality control test but needed further reformulation to improve product stability. Hence, future studies recommend the exploration of other excipients, formulation of other dosage forms and employment of additional methods of preparation.

Keywords: microbial assay, natural products, preformulation, pomegranate