Pharmaceutical formulation and evaluation of Xylopia aethiopica fruit-based topical ointment and cream

For centuries, humans have long sought plant-based remedies derived from barks, seeds, and fruits in their enduring battle against illness. Over time, traditional medicines have evolved to become more effective and safer through pharmacological validation. One key area where these remedies have shown promise is in treating skin infections, as the skin is often the first point of contact for microorganisms and particularly vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Currently, topical infections are primarily treated using ointments and creams, which deliver high concentrations of antimicrobials directly to the affected area. Studies reveal that ethanolic extracts have potent antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus species. This effect is ascribed to moderate to high concentrations of saponins, known for their antibacterial qualities. The present study investigates the antibacterial properties of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Xylopia aethiopica for the formulation of a topical ointment. To determine their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), cultures of Staphylococcus aureus and P. aeruginosa were tested against the extracts, which exhibited MIC values ranging from 2.5 mg/mL to 10 mg/mL for both the ethanolic and aqueous forms. The ointments and creams formulated from these extracts demonstrated notable antibacterial activity, alongside excellent physicochemical properties, including a smooth texture, appealing appearance, uniform consistency with no phase separation, characteristic brown color, excellent spreadability, stability, and suitable pH values (6.3 for the ointment and 7 for the cream), as well as non-irratating effects on the skin. The findings confirm that X. aethiopica possesses effective antibacterial properties against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, supporting its potential for further in vivo studies and broader therapeutic applications.