Comparative Evaluation of Cinnamomum Cassia and Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Microemulgels: Exploring the Potential of Cinnamon Essential Oil Formulations

Background: Plant essential oils have been identified as potential alternatives or additions to topical antimicrobial formulations. Cinnamon Essential Oil (CEO), offers potential as an alternative to topical antimicrobials, addressing the threat of antimicrobial resistance. Excessive use of antibiotics drives resistance, necessitating safe and effective treatments. CEO's active components, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol, exhibit strong antimicrobial properties. Objectives: This study focuses on the formulation design and antibacterial activity of topical microemulgels containing different variants of Ceylon and Cassia Cinnamon oils. It examines how the microemulgel formulation enhances the skin's absorption and delivery of active ingredients, leading to improved efficacy. Method: The particle size, Polydispersibility Index (PDI), and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of both variants of cinnamon oil microemulgels were investigated. Additionally, in-vitro permeation and in vivo, acute skin irritation studies were conducted on the microemulgels. Results: The study revealed that S.aureus and P.aeruginosa showed increased susceptibility to microemulgels containing Ceylon cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and Cassia cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum cassia), suggesting the efficacy of cinnamon oil as an antimicrobial agent. Conclusion: The findings carry wider significance for pushing forward research and innovation in topical drug delivery through essential oils. This effort aims to rejuvenate the efficacy of antibiotics and foster the creation of novel therapeutic methods for prevalent, minor skin infections.