Innovative Biocomposite Antifungal Hydrogels Based on Hydroxyethylcellulose, Keratin and Oregano Essential Oil

The increasing resistance to conventional antifungal therapies necessitates novel topical formulations. This study developed biocomposite hydrogels based on hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), keratin, and oregano essential oil (OEO) from Origanum syriacum var. bevanii. Eight hydrogels (H1-H8) with varying HEC (3-3.5%), keratin (0-1.6%), and OEO (0-0.06%) were prepared. GC-MS identifiedthymol (24.44%), γ-terpinene (20.54%), p-cymene (15.45%), and carvacrol (12.65%). Rheological data were quantified using the Ostwald-de Waele model. The consistency index was strongly influenced by composition and temperature. A medium concentration of keratin and OEO represents the optimal formulation ratio, offering rheological behavior suitable for the intended therapeutic purpose. Antifungal activity evaluated against Aspergillus brasiliensis, Fusarium oxysporum, and Phanerochaete chrysosporium showedlow OEO concentrations (0.003-0.006%) were ineffective. Hydrogels with 0.06% OEO (H7, H8) achieved complete suppression of A. brasiliensis and P. chrysosporium (score 0); H7 also fully inhibited F. oxysporum. A clear OEO concentration threshold above 0.006% is required for efficacy, with keratin acting as a functional encapsulant. These biocomposite hydrogels offer promising rheological and antifungal properties for further development.