FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF A HERBAL ANTIFUNGAL CREAM CONTAINING GARLIC OIL AND CLOVE OIL

Introduction: Fungal infections are globally prevalent dermatological problems, often treated using synthetic antifungal agents associated with side effects and drug resistance. Herbal essential oils such as garlic and clove possess well-documented antifungal properties and may serve as safer alternatives. Aim: To formulate and evaluate a herbal antifungal cream containing garlic oil (Allium sativum) and clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum) using physicochemical, phytochemical, and antifungal parameters. Materials and Methods: Garlic and clove oils were extracted through cold maceration and steam distillation, respectively. A cream formulation (oil-in-water type) was prepared using stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, glycerin, and triethanolamine as key excipients. The formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, and in vitro antifungal activity (agar well diffusion) against Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Trichophyton rubrum. Results: The optimized formulation exhibited a smooth texture, uniform consistency, pH 6.1 ± 0.2, viscosity 21,500 ± 50 cps, and excellent spreadability (14.5 ± 0.5 g·cm/s). Significant antifungal activity was observed with inhibition zones of 18 ± 0.5 mm (Candida albicans), 15 ± 0.4 mm (A. niger), and 17 ± 0.3 mm (T. rubrum). Stability studies confirmed no phase separation and maintained activity after 30 days. Conclusion: The herbal antifungal cream demonstrated strong in vitro antifungal activity, acceptable physicochemical properties, and good stability. The synergistic effect of allicin and eugenol supports its potential as a safe and effective herbal alternative to synthetic antifungal creams.