Physical Characterization and Irritation Assessment of 70% Ethanol Extract Cream of Diadema setosum for Burn Therapy

Diadema setosum is believed to possess considerable anti-inflammatory properties for burn therapy. Cream is considered the most practical topical wound therapy as it is non-sticky, and completely covers the wound. Developing appropriate formulations of Diadema setosum is essential for its advancement as better and safer topical burn therapy. This study aimed to ascertain the physical properties and irritant effect of 70% ethanol extract of Diadema setosum in cream formulations at concentrations of 1% (F1) and 3% (F2) extract. This research was a genuine study with a fully randomized design. The characteristics of the cream formulations including organoleptic, pH, viscosity, emulsion type, spreadability, and adhesiveness were evaluated using standard procedures. Occlusivity test was done using in vitro method and the irritation test was performed in vivo using Wistar rats. The results showed that the formulations met the criteria for an ideal cream. The creams were an oil-in-water type with pH ranging from 5.66 to 5.77. The creams had viscosity values of 16563.33 ± 422.87 cP (F1) and 21255.00 ± 465.89 cP (F2); spreadability values were 6.55 ± 0.28 cm (F1) and 5.66 ± 0.36 cm (F2). The adhesiveness values were 107.00 ± 5.66 s (F1) and 140.33 ± 4.11 s (F2). The occlusivity of the creams after 48 hours were 75.52 ± 1.58% (F1); and 76.94 ±   0.29% (F2). After 48 hours, cream formulations showed no irritation on rats’ skin. This study concluded that cream formulations with 1% and 3% Diadema setosum extract creams have good physical characteristics and non-irritating.