A Review of Anti-Fungal Cream

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a cream utilizing natural ingredients for treating fungal skin infections and improving overall skin health. The formulation represents an herbal medicinal cream containing antifungal agents, providing a systematic approach to managing cutaneous fungal infections. Topical application remains the preferred delivery method for such conditions. Creating a localized drug delivery system with systemic potential offers significant advantages over conventional administration routes. The cream incorporates botanical components recognized for their antifungal efficacy, including Aloe vera, Neem, Tulsi, and Pot Marigold (calendula) oil. The base formulation consists of beeswax, liquid paraffin, borax, and methyl paraben, with rose oil added for fragrance. The combination of these extracted natural ingredients produces a potent antifungal effect. The formulated herbal antifungal cream underwent rigorous evaluation for both efficacy and safety. Comprehensive assessments were conducted on various physicochemical parameters: physical appearance (color, odor, texture, state), pH, spreadability, homogeneity, removability, after-feel, smear type, irritancy, and antifungal activity. The final medicated cream demonstrated optimal viscosity and color, complemented by a functional rose water aroma. The global prevalence of fungal infections is rising, currently affecting 20-25% of the population and contributing to 30-50% of worldwide mortality. Contributing factors include low socioeconomic status, overcrowding, poor sanitation, and nutritional deficiencies. Trophic conditions further promote the proliferation of fungal diseases. For centuries, medicinal herbs have served as crucial resources in both traditional and contemporary medicine for managing infectious and non-infectious dermatological conditions. These plants contain active phyto constituents like polyphenols and antioxidants, which minimize adverse reactions and support the body\'s natural detoxification mechanisms. Antifungal creams effectively reduce inflammation, prevent wrinkles and acne, enhance blood circulation and cellular metabolism, and are suitable for sensitive, dry, and delicate skin types. Common ingredients in antifungal formulations include Asafoetida, Liquorice, Neem, Karanji oil, Alcohol, Stearic acid, Water, Bees wax, and Methyl paraben.

Introduction

Overview

Fungal infections, or mycoses, are a significant global health concern, causing over 1.5 million deaths annually. These infections range from superficial skin conditions (like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and yeast infections) to life-threatening systemic illnesses, especially in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., HIV patients).

Causes and Risk Factors

• Caused by thousands of fungal species found in air, soil, water, and the human body.

• Spread is promoted by humidity, poor hygiene, overcrowding, and low socioeconomic conditions.

• Children and people in tropical climates are especially vulnerable.

• Skin barrier damage from heat, moisture, trauma, or medications increases risk.

Types of Fungal Infections

• Superficial: Affect skin, hair, and nails (e.g., dermatophytosis).

• Systemic: Can involve internal organs (e.g., due to Aspergillus, Candida).

• Dermatophytes: Fungi that feed on keratinized tissues (e.g., Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton).

• Non-dermatophytes: Environmental fungi that can also cause infections.

Diagnosis & Symptoms

• Symptoms: Redness (erythema), itching (pruritus), scaling, skin cracks.

• Diagnosis: Visual inspection, patient history.

Treatment Approaches

• Topical Antifungal Creams are first-line for mild infections.

• Oral/Systemic Antifungals for severe/systemic cases.

• Adjunct care includes skin hygiene and avoiding moisture.

Types of Antifungal Creams

1. Medicated Creams

   • Contain synthetic agents (e.g., azoles, allylamines).

   • Effective but may cause irritation or resistance.

2. Natural/Herbal Creams

   • Use plant-based ingredients (e.g., tea tree oil, neem, garlic).

   • Perceived as safer; limited clinical data.

3. Polyherbal Creams

   • Combine multiple plant extracts for synergistic effects.

   • Aim for broader action and enhanced safety.

Benefits of Topical Formulations

• Avoids GI tract and liver metabolism (first-pass effect).

• Suitable for patients who can’t take oral meds (e.g., children).

• Easier discontinuation and fewer systemic side effects.

Disadvantages

• May cause skin irritation or allergies.

• More expensive; limited surface area application.

• Variable potency and regulation in herbal products.

Herbal Ingredients & Properties

• Neem (Azadirachta indica): Antibacterial, antifungal, immune-boosting.

• Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Healing, anti-inflammatory.

• Chamomile, Aloe Vera, Tea Tree, Lavender: Soothing, antifungal, skin-nourishing.

Evaluation Parameters for Creams

• Physical properties: Color (pale green), odor, texture.

• pH: Around 6.2 (skin-friendly).

• Spreadability & washability: Tested for ease of use.

• Irritancy & homogeneity tests: Ensure safety and consistency.

• Microbial testing: Confirms product is free from contamination.

Conclusion

Comprehensive analysis addressed various dermatological mycoses and their human epidermal impacts. Detailed examination revealed multiple benefits and applications of antifungal nanoparticles. These carriers undoubtedly signal impending paradigm shifts through potential revolutionary advancements in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Among diverse carriers, nanohydrogels demonstrate an extensive scope in creating effective antifungal hydrogel materials. Nature-derived polymers represent environmentally friendly methodologies offering enhanced safety compared to conventional alternatives. Various plant-derived bioplastics and aromatic compounds permit diverse application integration. Nanohydrogel materials provide effective solutions for functional skincare products addressing multiple fungal-induced dermatological conditions. Both mechanistic processes and successful nanohydrogel therapeutic implementations were documented through fungal skin infection case studies. Future considerations must address significant polysaccharide-derived nanohydrogel system integrity influences from societal factors.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Mr. Atharva Gaikwad, Mr. Akash Badhe, Mr. Prathamesh Gaikwad, Mr. Nitin Gawai, Mr. Kunal Hake. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.