Development and physicochemical characterization of an antifungal cream containing dried extract of Endopleura uchi and Brazil nut oil

Abstract

Endopleura uchi is a plant native to the Amazon and its chemical and pharmacological potential has been widely studied. Bertholletia excelsa oilseeds (Brazil nut) are a global highlight, with diverse applications in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, this work provided premises to assist in the development of cream formulations with dried extract from stem bark of Endopleura uchi and Bertholletia excelsa oil with the ability to inhibit strains of Candida spp. For this, the extract was prepared for 5 minutes in decoction using 10% (w/v). Drying was carried out using fluidized bed equipment. In the development of the formulations, previous physical stability after 24 hours and 30 days was used for evaluation, in addition to biological activity as an antifungal agent. After physicochemical characterization, antioxidant activity was found for dried extract of Endopleura uchi in the ABTS assay with 99.70 ± 0.00% inhibition, and DPPH with 86.30 ± 0.50%. With phytochemical investigation, it was proven that bergenin is the chemical marker for this plant. After this, it was possible to develop cream formulations using different concentrations of the extract and oil. Analyzing stability, F2 cream was selected and evaluated for 4 weeks, maintaining its original macroscopic characteristics. In antifungal activity, the MIC for the dried extract was of the 25 µg/mL for Candida albicans, Candida Krusei and Candida parapsilosis. The same good result occurred for F2 cream with more efficiently in inhibiting Candida non-albicans. The Bertholletia excelsa oil did not harm the antifungal activity.