In vitro Inhibition of Candida Species by Aqueous Garlic Extract in Gel and Lotion: Problem of Stability

Abstract

Aqueous garlic extract (AGE) has been shown to suppress the growth of several therapeutically relevant
microbes, including Candida species. Not much is known about this extract's stability and effectiveness in
topical medicinal compositions. The anticandidal activity and stability of AGE in lotion and gel formulations
are detailed in this communication. The physical and biological stability of gels and lotions containing 50,
100, and 200 mg garlic/ml were tested at 40ºC. Using Muller Hinton agar and the well diffusion technique,
we assessed the anticandidal impact of each formulation. The newly made lotion did not show any
anticandidal action, however the results showed that both formulations were physically stable. Gels inhibited
effectively, however their efficacy was lost after 9 days of storage at 40ºC. Since the lotion lost its activity
while being prepared, it may be argued that it was not an appropriate delivery vehicle for AGE. While gels
were effective inhibitors when made immediately, they lost some of their efficacy after being stored.
Stabilizing the AGE gel composition for the anticipated shelf life requires comprehensive investigations.
The anticandidal action, formulation, gel, lotion, and biological stability of an aqueous garlic extract are all
pertinent terms.