Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial potential of Himalayas Zanthoxylum armatum essential oil infused herbal cream

Abstract

Background: Zanthoxylum armatum, a medicinal plant native to the Himalayas, is traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties. This study investigates the antimicrobial potential of an infused herbal cream formulated with the essential oil extracted from the fruit of Z. armatum.

Methods: The essential oil was obtained through hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus and subsequently characterized by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. To determine its phytochemical profile. The formulated herbal cream was analyzed using GC-MS to confirm the presence and stability of bioactive constituents. The antimicrobial efficacy of the herbal cream was evaluated against Candida albicans (for antifungal activity) and Staphylococcus aureus (for antibacterial activity) using Cylinder Plate Method microbiological assays.

Results: GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of major biologically active constituents, including Linalool (60.22%) and Limonene (30.52%). GC-MS confirmed the retention of essential oil constituents in the herbal cream. Most phytochemicals were retained in the cream formulation with slight reduction, except α-Thujene and α-Pinene, which were absent post-formulation. Antimicrobial testing demonstrated that the herbal cream exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (13 mm) comparable to Mupirocin. It also showed antifungal activity against Candida albicans (10 mm) relative to Miconazole cream. indicating potent antifungal and antibacterial activity.

Conclusion: The study highlights the potential of Z. armatum essential oil as an effective antimicrobial agent in topical formulations. The infused herbal cream exhibited promising antifungal and antibacterial activity, suggesting its potential application in managing microbial infections. Further studies on formulation optimization and clinical efficacy are recommended.