Comparative Assessment of the Antibacterial Potential of Curcumin and Tridax Procumbens Microsponge-Based Gel Formulations

The aim of the present study was to formulate, evaluate, and compare the antibacterial activities of topical gel formulations containing Tridax procumbens and curcumin-loaded microsponges. The microsponges were prepared using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method, with ethyl cellulose as the polymer and polyvinyl alcohol as the stabilizer. The prepared microsponges were subsequently incorporated into a Carbopol-based gel to develop microsponge-loaded topical formulations. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters, including production yield, compatibility, surface morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), pH, viscosity, spreadability, washability, and stability. SEM analysis revealed that the microsponges were spherical, porous, and uniformly distributed, indicating their potential suitability for controlled drug release. The pH values of the formulated gels were within the acceptable range for topical application, suggesting good compatibility with the skin. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using agar well diffusion method. Both Tridax procumbens and curcumin microsponge-based gels demonstrated notable antibacterial activity, with the curcumin-loaded microsponge gel exhibiting comparatively larger zones of inhibition against certain bacterial strains. The findings suggest that microsponge-based gel formulations may offer a promising approach to controlled topical drug delivery, with potential benefits in drug stability and patient compliance, along with improved antibacterial performance compared with conventional gel formulations. Further studies are required to establish their clinical efficacy and confirm their advantages over conventional topical preparations.