Formulation and Characterization of Dill Seed Vaginal Cream Based on a Traditional Medicine

Background: Dill seed has been used as a vaginal discharge remedy according to traditional origins, but its application by traditional methods is difficult and time-consuming.

Aims: The main aim of this study was preparing a vaginal dosage form with acceptable physicochemical properties from dill seed extract-essential oil combination to be easily applied, and the dosage can be precisely determined.

Study Design: This is an experimental study and statically designed according to the approved protocol for drug assessments.

Place and Duration of Study: Pharmacognosy Department, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, between May 2016 and June 2017.

Methodology: Dill seed was purchased and authenticated. Some phytochemical properties like volatile contents, total flavonoid, and phenolic content, extractable matter were determined. In addition, gas chromatography/ mass spectrophotometer (GC/MS) analysis and thin layer chromatography fingerprints were done. Physical properties, pH, chemical stability, microbial contamination, and release study of the vaginal cream were carried out.

Results: GC-MS analysis showed that the main components of the essential oil are dl- Limonene and carvone. The presence of rutin in the extract was confirmed by TLC fingerprints. Total flavonoid content was expressed as rutin equivalent to 22.5±1.6 μg per mg of the extract. The total phenolic content was expressed as gallic acid equivalent to 201.6±1.0 μg per mg of the methanolic extract. The released percentage, on the basis of total extract from the cream after 24 hours was about 36.9±8.4. Chemical stability showed that major components of DSVC including carvone and limonene remained about 102.8 and 106.9%, respectively after 24 months. Microbial control of the final products showed no pathogenic contamination.

Conclusion: The results from phytochemical of the dill seed and physicochemical of the vaginal cream were in an acceptable range which supports its stability and applicability in clinical trials.