Formulation And Evaluation Of Opthalmic Ointment Using Foeniculum Vulgare Miller Seeds Extract

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted with the objective of formulating and evaluation of herbal ophthalmic ointment formulation using aqueous decoction of Foeniculum vulgare Miller (Fennel) seeds. Inflammation of eye, commonly referred to as ocular inflammation, results from several conditions like infection, allergy, trauma, oxidative stress, autoimmune conditions, and even dry eyes, resulting in symptoms like redness, irritation, pain, and poor vision. Traditionally, ophthalmic medications, such as corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, have been employed successfully to combat inflammation, but the continuous usage of these medicines may cause side effects such as increased intraocular pressure, formation of cataracts, nephrotoxicity, and gastric irritation. Thus, the need for an effective and safe herbal ophthalmic medication emerged. The primary reason behind choosing fennel seed as the main raw material was due to its antioxidant, anti inflammatory, oculohypotensive, and protective property to ocular tissue. The use of tulsi extract and honey in the formulation was due to their antimicrobial and soothing nature. Preliminary testing for the identification of phytoconstituents in plants resulted in the detection of various phytoconstituents like flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenols, and saponins. The aqueous extract of fennel seeds and Tulsi leaves was made through decoction process. Ophthalmic ointment was prepared with fusion process and the base was comprised of beeswax and castor oil. The product was packed in sterile ophthalmic tubes. Evaluation of the formulated product with respect to physicochemical parameters such as appearance, pH, spreadability, viscosity, percentage of drug content, and stability was done. Ointment was found to have smooth, homogenous nature with slight yellow colour and without unpleasant odour. The ointment demonstrated appropriate pH level, spreadability, viscosity and drug content. Anti-inflammatory activity was measured by protein denaturation test with egg albumin and the formulation inhibited protein denaturation effectively.