Development of gel with Matricaria recutita L. extract for topic application and evaluation of physical-chemical stability and toxicity

Abstract

Matricaria recutita L. (Asteraceae), better known as chamomile, has been used due to its pharmacological properties. Laboratory-manufactured gels with chamomile extract were developed with the evaluation of the physical-chemical stability, as well as the study of its toxicity. The extractive solution was prepared by maceration with ethyl alcohol 95%. Part of the chamomile extractive ethanolic solution (CEES) was concentrated in rotoevaporator, obtaining a raw chamomile extract (RCE). For the preparation of gels, carbopol 940P, hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose were used with the addition of 3% and 5% chamomile extracts. The stability tests applied to the gels were as such: thermal stress, pH evaluation, viscosity and storage at different temperatures. In the end of the tests it was observed that the carbopol gel was the most stable. The Draize Test was employed as the toxicity test, with no irritation observed; however, on skin that underwent abrasion, some gels caused a little irritation.