A Novel Antibacterial Topical Gel from Nigella sativa and Achyranthes aspera against Acne Causing Microorganisms

Abstract

Inflammation in sebaceous follicles leads to skin related maladies more specifically, acne vulgaris. Bacterial species involved in causing such maladies involve P. acnes, S. epidermidis, S. aureus. These microbes have negatively affected the currently available remedies for acne vulgaris. In this research herbal Nigella sativa, Achyranthes aspera seeds were used instead of using any chemical based product on skin. The present study aims to develop novel antibacterial gel using Nigella sativa, Achyranthes aspera seeds to target pathogens that cause dermal acne. To extract the antibacterial property of the seed, they were soaked in desired chemicals individually in a shaker and then evaporated by using a rotary evaporator. After the extraction the extract was screed using the agar gel well diffusion method against P. acnes as well as S. aureus. From the diffusion method it was found that the extract is loaded with antibacterial properties. Now, the extract of N. sativa and A. aspera seeds was further divided into gels of 2 different concentrations and subjected for stability evaluation of antimicrobial activity. In this research it was found that the antibacterial property of the 10% of seed extract used was surpassed the commercial synthetic product. In addition, it was found that there were no changes in colour, pH, odor, consistency, homogeneity, and washing capacity, although the antibacterial potential was physiologically stable during storage time. The strong antimicrobial property produced from the extract in topical gel formulations suggests that the formulation can be a potential alternative to current remedies in the treatment of acne vulgaris.