Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Objective: Fungal infections continue to pose a significant global health burden, with current treatments often limited by resistance, prolonged treatment durations, or poor patient compliance. This study aims to develop and evaluate a novel antifungal ointment that combines traditional herbal ingredients with modern formulation techniques, enhancing efficacy and stability.
Methods: The formulation was developed using Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Alum (Potassium aluminum sulfate) each known for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties. These ingredients were incorporated into a stable topical ointment base. The formulation was evaluated for its physicochemical properties, stability, and antifungal activity. In vitro antifungal efficacy was assessed against common dermal fungal pathogens using the agar well diffusion method, and stability was tested under various storage conditions.
Results: The prepared ointment demonstrated significant antifungal activity, showing clear zones of inhibition against Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum, comparable to standard antifungal agents. The formulation remained physically and chemically stable over a testing period of three months. Additionally, the ointment was cosmetically acceptable, potentially improving patient compliance compared to traditional ayurvedic preparations.
Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of combining herbal ingredients with pharmaceutical formulation techniques to create a synergistic, effective antifungal treatment. The developed ointment offers a promising, affordable, and accessible solution for managing dermal fungal infections, bridging the gap between traditional remedies and modern therapeutics while addressing issues of resistance, efficacy, and user acceptability.