Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity, Toxicity, and Stability of Andrographis paniculata Intimate Wash Formulation

Vaginal infections are commonly treated with antibiotics but increasing antimicrobial resistance and side effects of commercial intimate wash have encouraged the search for safer herbal alternatives. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an intimate wash formulated with Andrographis paniculata extract against selected pathogens; Candida albicans, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae. The antimicrobial activity of A. paniculata intimate wash was assessed by using the agar well diffusion method to observe inhibition zones. Toxicity evaluations were conducted, including heavy metal detection for the intimate wash and the brine shrimp lethality assay for the extract. Stability and sterility testing of intimate wash were also conducted to determine the product's shelf-life. The results showed that the intimate wash exhibited optimum inhibition at 3.125 mg/mL. Heavy metals were below the permissible limits, and the extract also demonstrated non-cytotoxic effect towards brine shrimp. The intimate wash showed good stability and remained free from contamination throughout 24 months of storage. In conclusion, A. paniculata intimate wash is acceptable for preliminary safety findings and has potential as herbal alternative for the management of vaginal infections. However, further in vivo and clinical studies are required to confirm its safety and efficacy.