Haruan (Channa striatus) incorporated palm-oil creams : formulation and stability studies

Topical emulsions stabilized with non-ionic emulsifiers have been an attractive alternative as vehicles for drug delivery, particularly for the patients suffering from dermatological problems. Haruan (a natural wound healer) creams were formulated with different types of emulsifiers (Tween 80 and Span 80) using different grades of Malaysian Palm-oleins (DFPL 56, 60, 62 and 65). The stability (at room temperature and accelerated stability testing) of the various creams was evaluated at different temperatures (5, 25 and 45 degrees C) for a period of 6 months by measuring changes in droplet size, viscosity and percentage oil separation. The emulsifier type and concentration showed pronounced effect on the physicochemical properties of the cream, whereas storage time did not. This study suggested that the choice of emulsifiers and concentration of haruan extract are the most important factors in the stability of the haruan creams.