Application of Fig (Ficus carica L.) Leaf Extract as a Herbal Antibacterial Body Scrub

The leaf extract of Ficus carica L. has been shown to exert antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, which are acne-causing bacteria. Acne occurs when the skin pores are blocked with dead skin, oil, or bacteria. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate fig leaf extract body scrub for P. acnes and S. epidermidis. The stability of the developed body scrub was evaluated during storage at ambient temperature for 56 days. The body scrub was formulated with 3% fig leaf extract as the active ingredient and varying concentrations of silica sand (1%–3%) as the scrubbing agent. Furthermore, organoleptic evaluation and hedonic test of the body scrub were performed, and pH, viscosity, spreadability, antibacterial activity against P. acnes and S. epidermidis, and irritation were assessed. The fig leaf extract body scrub with varying concentrations of silica sand (1%–3%) had a light green color, specific scent, rough texture, viscosity range of 7750–9550 cps, pH of 6.8–7.3, spreadability of 4.9–6.2 cm, and inhibition zones of 14.56–14.68 mm for P. acnes and 15.67–15.69 mm for S. epidermidis. Moreover, it was nonirritant on the back of the volunteer's hand and remained stable for 56 days at ambient temperature. The silica sand concentration was found to affect viscosity and roughness. In 30 volunteers, the formula with 3% silica sand was the preferred preparation based on color, scent, and texture. Therefore, fig leaf extract can be formulated into a body scrub with good physical characteristics and dermatologically tested.