*Corresponding Author: Atul A. Sabe, Research Scholar, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam University, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. Email: atulsabe7180@gmail.com
Candidiasis is a prevalent opportunistic fungal infection predominantly caused by Candida species, impacting mucosal and cutaneous tissues, with rising incidence attributed to immunosuppression, antibiotic misuse, and hormonal imbalance. Traditional antifungal treatments, although efficacious, often entail unpleasant effects, recurrence, and the development of drug resistance, prompting the investigation of safer and more effective alternative medicines. Herbal preparations developed from medicinal plants provide a viable strategy due to their bioactive phytoconstituents and few adverse effects. Salvia verbenaca (family: Lamiaceae), historically recognised for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing qualities, has garnered interest as a prospective antifungal agent.
This research focuses on the creation and assessment of a herbal cream using an extract of Salvia verbenaca for the treatment of candidiasis. The plant material underwent extraction with appropriate solvents, followed by preliminary phytochemical screening to discover active compounds including flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, and essential oils recognised for their antifungal properties. A topical herbal cream was developed with suitable excipients and optimised for consistency, stability, and patient acceptance.
The prepared cream was assessed for physicochemical characteristics such as appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, and stability under various storage conditions. The in-vitro antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans was evaluated using conventional microbiological techniques, and the findings were compared with a commercial antifungal formulation. The herbal cream demonstrated acceptable physicochemical properties, robust durability, and notable antifungal efficacy, suggesting its medicinal potential.
The results of this study indicate that Salvia verbenaca-based herbal cream may be a safe, effective, and cost-efficient option for treating candidiasis. Additional in-vivo research and clinical trials are advised to confirm its effectiveness and safety for clinical use.
Keywords: Candida albicans, Salvia verbenaca, Herbal Cream, Candidiasis, Antifungal.
How to cite this article: Sabe AA, Gupta RA. Development and quality evaluation of a Salvia verbenaca herbal cream for anticandidal application. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(7s): 75-80; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.7s.11
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None