Development, Optimization and Characterization of an Allium sativum L. Extract-Loaded Polymeric Microsponge Gel
Abstract
The present study developed and optimized a polymeric microsponge gel containing an extract of Allium sativum L. for controlled topical delivery. Garlic was selected because its organosulfur constituents, particularly allicin and related thiosulfinates, have recognized antifungal potential, while direct topical use is limited by strong odour, chemical instability, rapid loss of activity and possible irritation. A dark-brown semisolid extract was prepared from dried garlic powder, giving an extraction yield of 18.6% w/w. Ethyl cellulose microsponges were produced by the quasi-emulsion solvent-diffusion method. Six batches were prepared by varying the drug-to-polymer ratio from 1:1 to 1:3 and polyvinyl alcohol concentration from 0.5% to 1.0% w/v. The preparations were evaluated for production yield, drug content, entrapment efficiency, particle size, morphology and in-vitro release. The optimized batch, ASMS-3, showed a production yield of 82 ± 1.4%, entrapment efficiency of 88 ± 1.1%, mean particle size of approximately 45 µm, spherical porous morphology and 86 ± 1.2% release over eight hours. Particle-size analysis gave a Z-average of 45.3 ± 1.2 µm and a polydispersity index of 0.246. The optimized microsponges were incorporated into a 1% Carbopol 934 gel. The resulting gel was smooth and homogeneous, with pH 5.8 ± 0.2, viscosity 2850 ± 120 cP, good spreadability and 89 ± 1.2% drug content. During 90-day stability testing, the formulation retained acceptable appearance, pH, viscosity and more than 90% of its initial drug content. These findings demonstrate that ethyl-cellulose microsponges can convert garlic extract into a stable, cosmetically acceptable and controlled-release topical gel.
How to Cite
Ayushi Srivastava , Sushila Kaura, "Development, Optimization and Characterization of an Allium sativum L. Extract-Loaded Polymeric Microsponge Gel", Vol. 3, Issue 6, 27-09-2025, pp. 109-123. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.21428400
