Formulation development and evaluation of antiacne activity of ethosomal gel prepared using Plumbago zeylanica root extract

The objective of present research work is, to develop an ethosome, as a carrier system for Plumbago root extract, its incorporation into gel formulations and to characterize the developed gel formulations by estimation of plumbagin content and study of antiacne activity. Roots of Plumbago zeylanica L (Plumbaginaceae) contains Plumbagin and is used for skin infections and intestinal worms. Topical therapy for acne includes comedolytic agents, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. The excessive use of antibiotics has led to the increased resistance of acne-causing bacteria. In this research work, plumbago roots have been screened for their potential use for the treatment of acne and hydroalcoholic extract of the roots was found to be effective. Seven batches (EF1-EF7) of ethosomes were prepared using soya lecithin (1-3%) and ethanol (10-45%) and the hydroalcoholic extract. The range of entrapment efficiency varied from 17.12 to 80.82%. The ethosomes EF6 having highest entrapment efficiency was incorporated into gel formulation. Carbopol 934P (0.5 -2%) was used to prepare ethosomal gel and evaluated for physicochemical properties, drug content and diffusion characteristics. The pH of the gel was in the range of 6.87 to 7.03. Viscosity was between 5600 - 9800 centipoises. The % drug content was in the range of 95.91% to 100.7%. The ethosome, in their gel formulation, showed good physicochemical properties, drug content and diffusion pattern. The anti-acne activity of F3 showed good zones of inhibition comparable with standard Clindamycin. The present study suggested ethosomal gel as an efficient carrier for plumbago root extract for antiacne activity.