Guardians of Purity: In-Process Quality Control in Herbal and Synthetic Antifungal Medicines (Research Article)

Author(s): Thummala Gowri Priya, Sreekanth Thota, Ch Rajveer, Karka Srinivas Reddy, and Damerakonda Kumara Swamy

Abstract: Fungal infections are a major global health concern, ranging from superficial to systemic conditions, and are especially common in immunocompromised patients. Synthetic drugs, particularly those of the azole class, are widely used but frequently cause adverse effects and face growing resistance issues. In contrast, herbal drugs are gaining attention for their comparable or potential efficacy against fungal pathogens and are valued for their more favourable safety profile. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the in-process quality control parameters of marketed herbal and synthetic formulations used in the management of fungal infections. Tablets, creams, soaps, and powders were procured from the local market. The synthetic formulations included Fluconazole tablets, Canesten creams, Ketostar soap, and Canesten powder. The herbal formulations included Arkaneem tablets, Trichoderm creams, Neo Neem soap, and Neem powder. Quality assessments were conducted in accordance with the Indian Pharmacopoeia and standard guidelines. The study assessed the following parameters: weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration, viscosity, pH, foam stability, bulk density, tapped density, angle of repose, and moisture content. Results indicated that both tablet types complied with pharmacopeial limits for weight variation, hardness, and friability; however, the herbal tablets exhibited a prolonged disintegration time compared to the synthetic tablets. Both creams displayed acceptable viscosity and pH values within skin-friendly ranges. Herbal soap produced a more stable foam than its synthetic counterpart, while the herbal powder demonstrated superior flow properties but a higher moisture content. Overall, herbal formulations showed satisfactory quality control characteristics, suggesting they may be safer and more patient-friendly alternatives. However, optimization is required for the disintegration time and moisture content. Further pharmacological and clinical evaluations are recommended to validate therapeutic efficacy.

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