DEVELOPMENT AND OPTIMIZATION OF HERBAL CURCUMIN OINTMENT WITH ANTIFUNGAL PROPERTIES

This study aims to develop an ointment formulation of curcumin with antifungal activity, utilizing a factorial design approach. Curcumin, known for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, was selected as the active ingredient. Various formulation parameters were systematically optimized using factorial design to achieve maximum efficacy and stability. The formulated ointments were evaluated for their physicochemical properties, stability, and antifungal effectiveness against common fungal pathogens. Results demonstrated that the optimized curcumin ointment exhibited significant antifungal activity, suggesting its potential as an effective topical treatment for fungal infections. This research highlights the application of factorial design in the development of potent antifungal formulations.