Green Synthesis And Evaluation Of Antifungal Gel From The Leaves Of Aclypha Indica

Abstract

Herbal medicines play a pivotal role in global healthcare, with an estimated 80% of the world’s population relying on plant-based treatments for their primary health needs. Traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha utilize plant-derived compounds for treating a wide range of diseases. In the modern era, plant-based medicines continue to contribute to drug discovery, with approximately 25% of modern medicines derived from plants. The use of herbal medicines, particularly in developing countries, is valued at over USD 100 billion globally and continues to grow by 6-8% annually.One such medicinal plant is Acalypha indica Linn., belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, which is widely distributed across Asia, Africa, and South America. Studies have shown that Acalypha indica has potent medicinal properties, particularly in combating microbial infections¹. According to recent research, about 30% of the population in tropical regions uses traditional remedies involving Acalypha indica for skin infections, respiratory conditions, and gastrointestinal issues. The global burden of fungal infections has also been on the rise, with Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger being among the most common fungal pathogens². It is estimated that around 1 billion people globally suffer from fungal infections each year, with invasive fungal infections leading to over 1.5 million deaths annually. This study focuses on the green synthesis and evaluation of an antifungal gel formulated using the leaves of Acalypha indica. By adopting green extraction techniques, we aim to minimize environmental impact while harnessing the antifungal properties of the plant. The gel formulation is tested for antifungal activity against common fungal strain of Candida albicans . This studies have shown that plant-based antifungal agents can exhibit up to 60-80% efficacy compared to conventional treatments. The formulation is evaluated for its stability and physicochemical properties, with the potential to offer an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic antifungal medications, addressing both sustainability and health concerns. This work is aligned with the growing trend in natural product research, where the market for herbal antifungal treatments is expected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2030, with a projected annual growth rate of 5%. This highlights the increasing demand for safer, plant-based solutions in combating fungal infections. Through this research, we aim to contribute to the development of a sustainable and effective antifungal gel that can cater to this demand.