Antifungal Effectiveness of California Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Leaf Extract in Cream Formulation Against Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans

Background: Fungal infections remain a significant health concern, particularly in tropical regions where environmental conditions favor the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans are fungal species associated with various human health disorders. California papaya leaves contain secondary metabolites with potential antifungal properties, warranting further investigation into their incorporation into topical formulations. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of a cream containing California papaya leaf extract and determine the most effective concentration against both fungal species. Methods: A laboratory experimental study was conducted involving extraction using 96% ethanol through maceration, phytochemical screening, and cream formulation containing extract concentrations of 10%, 20%, and 30%. The formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spreadability, and adhesiveness. Antifungal activity was assessed using the disk diffusion method, with three replicates for each test. Results: Crude drug characterization met four of the five evaluated parameters, whereas the water-soluble extractive content of 10.23% did not meet the minimum standard of 14.5%. Phytochemical screening identified alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenoids. All formulations exhibited good homogeneity, with pH values ranging from 4.63 to 6.48. The 30% formulation produced the largest inhibition zones, measuring 16.22 ± 0.202 mm against M. furfur and 15.73 ± 0.050 mm against C. albicans. Conclusion: The cream containing ethanolic California papaya leaf extract demonstrated potential antifungal activity against both fungal species, with the 30% formulation exhibiting the greatest inhibitory activity among the tested formulations.