Avaliação dos extratos de barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens) e de sálvia (Salvia officinalis) aplicados na formulação de sabonetes íntimos

Abstract

This study aimed to develop two intimate soaps, one with plant extract from the bark of barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens) and the other from sage leaves (Salvia officinalis), and to evaluate their stability and antimicrobial action. The extracts were obtained from ultrasound-assisted extraction with 70% propylene glycol solvent and incorporated into the formulations at a concentration of 7% (w/w). Preliminary and accelerated stability tests were performed with temperature variations, storage at -1 °C, 45 °C, and freeze/thaw cycles. Physicochemical parameters (pH, foaming, and density) as well as organoleptic characteristics were analyzed. Antimicrobial activity was tested against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans, harmful microorganisms, and Lactobacillus crispatus, a representative of the beneficial vaginal microbiota, using the disk diffusion test. The results indicated moderate physicochemical variations and organoleptic alteration (darkening and phase separation), mainly after thermal cycles, with a pH within the appropriate range for the female intimate area (3.8-4.5). The soap containing sage extract showed greater antimicrobial activity against E. coli and C. albicans than the crude extract, while the soap with barbatimão demonstrated moderate action against these microorganisms. However, inhibition of L. crispatus was also observed, indicating the need for adjustments in the formulation to preserve beneficial microorganisms. It was concluded that, despite the stability of the formula and inhibition of microbial growth, further tests and adjustments are still necessary to fully exploit the potential of applying these extracts in soap intended for the female intimate area.