Foot Deodorizing Gel Formulation Having Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract

: Sweaty feet and foot odour are common nowadays. The existence of one or more of Staphylococcus epidermis, Bacillus subtilis and Propionibacterium Acnes on foot surface may trigger the generation of isovaleric and propionic acids, which in turn can cause a distinctive odor of feet. The present study tested susceptibility of Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus epidermidis to various oils and oil combinations. The outcome showed that a combination of lemon oil, neem oil and tulsi oil possessed synergistic antibacterial activity. A foot deodorizing gel containing a combination of lemon oil, neem oil, and tulsi oil; a gel base was prepared and tested for stability, organoleptic performance, antibacterial activity, irritation test, and deodorizing performance. The mixture of oils was found to reduce at least 6 logs of the primary populace of B. subtilis and S. epidermidis in 10 min. The lethal effect was found for at least 60 minutes. The gel formulation decreased at least 90% of the initial population of bacteria after 1 hour of contact when checked for days 0, 15, 30 and 60. The gel formulation also showed desired properties such as clarity, pourability, consistency, spreadability, quick absorption post application, non-stickiness and non-dryness, and absence of residue. The foot deodorizing gel formulation demonstrated antibacterial efficiency against the bacteria responsible for producing a strong foot odour.