Evaluation of the antibacterial potentials of phytosomal gel of <i>Cassia alata</i> leaf extract

Phytosomes are vesicular drug delivery systems which are complexes between herbal material and natural phospholipids proven to be beneficial in providing good absorption and better bioavailability over herbal conventional extracts. This study was carried out to evaluate the antibacterial activity of phytosomal gels formulated with aqueous extract of cassia alata leaf. The crude drug was extracted using cold maceration and concentrated. The crude extract was evaluated for its antibacterial activity using antibacterial sensitivity test against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, by measuring the inhibitory zone diameter (IZD). The phytosomal herbal gel was evaluated for viscosity, pH, extrudability and spreadability. The pH values of the formulated gels were in the range of 5.46-7.53, the viscosity ranged between 11,567 to 70,333 mPa s. The 200 mg and 400 mg samples of the crude extract gave IZD values of 10.5 mm and 15 mm for S. aureus and 15mm and 17 mm for E. coli. Corresponding concentrations of phytosomal gels of Cassia alata (PG1-PG3 containing 200mg Cassia alata) and (PG4-PG6 containing 400 mg Cassia alata) gave higher IZD of 21.5-27 mm for S. aureus and 19-24.5 mm for E. coli. Phytosomes of Cassia alata was successfully formulated. The in vitro antibacterial activity of Cassia alata was improved with the incorporation of phytosomes giving better profile than the crude extract and the plain gel against S. aureus and E. coli. This enhanced activity can possibly be harnessed for the treatment of skin condition in which these pathogens are implicated in the aetiology.