Development and evaluation of novel topical gel of neem extract for the treatment of bacterial infections

Abstract

Background The microspheres are one of the major formulations in the novel drug delivery systems. These days' scientists are predominantly focusing on natural plant products because of the poisonous effect of synthetic drug molecules. From olden days itself, neem has some excellent antibacterial activities. Aims The main objective of the research work was to formulate microspheres containing methanolic extract of neem and incorporate it into a gel. The optimized gel was evaluated for its antibacterial activity. Methods The methanolic extract of the neem leaves was prepared by maceration process. The microspheres prepared were evaluated for shape, size of particles, and in vitro drug release. Out of all the formulations, the F5 formulation was found to be optimized; therefore, it was incorporated into the gel and evaluated for the in vitro permeation studies, in vivo skin irritation test, in vitro antibacterial activity studies, and accelerated stability studies. Results The prepared gel formulation showed an acceptable zone of inhibition when compared to the pure drug in in vitro antibacterial activity studies. The skin irritation study on albino Wistar rats showed that the prepared gel formulation was compatible. Based on the stability studies, the gel formulation was found to be stable during the study period. Conclusion The optimized formulation of containing neem extract showed better antibacterial activity, and it could be promising one in the topical delivery of neem for treatment of bacterial infections.

Neem (Azadirachta Indica) and silk fibroin associated hydrogel: Boon for wound healing treatment regimen

“…The spreadability outcomes of gels in this range showed that using a low shear rate made them easier to spread over areas of skin, and several studies supported this observation ( Chen and Liu, 2016 ). The drug content ( Table 4 ) of the present study findings was comparable with the earlier results reported by Raju and Jose, (2019) . Neither bacterial nor fungal growth was found during the sterility test ( Table 5 ).…”

Topical treatment of multiple erosive, ulcerative skin lesions in an Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis)

“…Neem has repelling and toxic effects against insects, through a complex called tetranortriterpenoid limonoid [21]. It is reported to have antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and immunostimulatory properties [22]. Hemp is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids including linoleic acid, γ-and α-linolenic acid [23][24].…”

Use of Plant Extracts, Bee-Derived Products, and Probiotic-Related Applications to Fight Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens in the Post-Antibiotic Era

“…Iraqui et al [69] Several bacterial infections have been treated with antibacterial extracts incorporated into gels, creams, microspheres, nanoparticles, and hydrogels. For instance, Raju and Jose [68] evaluated the efficacy of a novel topical gel of neem extract using microspheres as a drug delivery system; the gel produced excellent antibacterial effects. The topical application of antimicrobials offers greater advantages at the site of infection.…”