Borneo Journal of Pharmacy

Natural Self-Foaming Clay Soap with Etlingera elatior Fruit Extract for Skincare

Vica Aspadiah — 2025-05-30

Etlingera elatior (Wualae), a plant recognized for its flavonoid-derived antioxidant properties, presents a potential source for cosmeceutical applications. This study investigated the formulation and evaluation of a Self-Foaming Clay Soap (SFCS) incorporating an ethanol extract of E. elatior fruit. The SFCS base, comprising surfactant as a cleansing and foaming agent combined with bentonite clay for enhanced serviceability and oil adsorption, was formulated with varying concentrations of bentonite (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% w/w), designated as FI to FV, respectively, alongside other necessary excipients. The resulting SFCS preparations underwent rigorous physical and chemical stability assessments following accelerated storage conditions (freeze-thaw cycles). Evaluated parameters included organoleptic properties, foam stability and height, viscosity, dispersibility, homogeneity, and pH. The evaluation revealed that Formulation II (FII), containing 5% w/w bentonite, exhibited the most favorable stability profile and met the established criteria for SFCS semisolid preparations. Specifically, FII demonstrated a foam stabilization rate of 84.61% and a foam height of 2.6 cm after freeze-thaw cycling, a viscosity of 10,000 cPs, a spreadability diameter of 4.1 cm, a homogeneous texture devoid of coarse particles, and a skin-compatible pH of 5. These findings suggest that an SFCS formulation incorporating a 5% w/w concentration of bentonite and E. elatior fruit extract holds promising potential as a stable and efficacious skincare preparation.

Effect of Quercetin and Zinc Oxide Concentrations on pH and In Vitro Activity of Sunscreen Lipstick

Budipratiwi Wisudyaningsih — 2025-05-30

Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, exhibits significant antioxidant properties, making it a promising candidate for photoprotective applications. Concurrently, zinc oxide is a well-established physical blocker of ultraviolet A (UV-A) radiation. This study aimed to optimize the synergistic combination of quercetin (as an anti-UV-B agent) and zinc oxide (as an anti-UV-A agent) within a sunscreen lipstick formulation to enhance broad-spectrum photoprotection. A factorial design, implemented using Design Expert 13.0 software, was employed for the optimization. The independent variables were the concentrations of quercetin and zinc oxide, while the dependent responses included pH, Sun Protection Factor (SPF), percentage of Erythema Transmission (%TE), and percentage of Pigmentation Transmission (%TP). Statistical analysis evaluated the individual and interactive effects of the components on these responses. Both quercetin and zinc oxide individually demonstrated a positive influence on increasing the pH and SPF values of the formulations, while concurrently reducing both %TE and %TP values. Notably, a significant synergistic interaction between quercetin and zinc oxide was observed, further influencing the SPF, %TE, and %TP values. The optimized formula, derived from the overlay contour plot generated by the factorial design, comprised 2.5% quercetin and 15% zinc oxide. This optimal combination yielded a pH of 5.027, an SPF of 22.713, a %TE of 0.012, and a %TP of 0.004. The optimized combination of quercetin and zinc oxide in a sunscreen lipstick formulation effectively provided desirable pH values and substantial in vitro sunscreen efficacy. These findings suggest that this novel formulation holds significant potential as a broad-spectrum photoprotective cosmetic product.

Combined Effects of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Rhizome and Persea americana Leaves Extracts on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Rats

Vertirico Thong — 2025-05-30

Indonesia's rich biodiversity encompasses numerous plants with ethnomedicinal applications, including avocado (Persea americana) leaves and temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) rhizomes, traditionally used for managing diabetes mellitus. This study investigated the antidiabetic activity of a combination of C. xanthorrhiza rhizomes and P. americana leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Extracts were obtained via 72-hour maceration using 96% ethanol, followed by phytochemical screening and a 3-day toxicity assessment in rats at doses of 50, 150, and 200 mg/kg BW. Diabetic rats, induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg STZ, were treated for 14 days with three different combination formulas of C. xanthorrhiza rhizome and P. americana leaf extracts: Formula 1 (0.6 g : 0.4 g), Formula 2 (0.4 g : 0.6 g), and Formula 3 (0.4 g : 0.4 g). Metformin (500 mg/kg/day) served as the positive control, and 0.5% CMC-Na was the negative control. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds in both extracts. No significant toxicity was observed in rats across the tested doses. The Mann-Whitney test indicated a significant difference in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats after 14 days of treatment (p=0.037). Notably, all combination formulas exhibited antidiabetic activity. Specifically, Formula 1 demonstrated comparable antidiabetic efficacy to metformin (500 mg/kg). These findings suggest that combining C. xanthorrhiza and P. americana extracts possesses significant antidiabetic potential.

Purple Yam (Dioscorea alata) Extract Increasing Dopamine Levels and Improving the Brain's Microscopic Features in Parkinson's Model Mice

Sapto Yuliani — 2025-05-30

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, that causes progressive motor issues from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Purple yam (Dioscorea alata), rich in anthocyanins, shows promise as a natural antioxidant and neuroprotectant. This study investigated the antiparkinsonian effects of D. alata extract on dopamine levels and brain microscopic features in a haloperidol-induced PD mouse model. Thirty-five male mice were randomly allocated into seven groups: normal (CMC-Na and aqua pro injection), haloperidol-induced negative control (CMC-Na), positive control (levodopa 39 mg/kgBW), curcumin (200 mg/kgBW), and D. alata extract-treated groups (100, 200, and 400 mg/kgBW). Treatments were administered daily for seven days. On day 8, all groups, except the normal control, received an intraperitoneal injection of haloperidol (2 mg/kgBW) to induce Parkinsonism. Three hours post-haloperidol injection, dopamine levels were measured from orbital vein blood. Subsequently, brains were harvested for histological examination of the SNpc using Toluidine blue staining. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by LSD post-hoc tests. The 400 mg/kgBW dose of D. alata extracts significantly increased dopamine levels (p<0.05) compared to the negative control group. Microscopic analysis of the SNpc in mice treated with 400 mg/kgBW extract revealed preserved, dark, and solid neuronal morphology, with significantly higher scoring results (p<0.05) when compared to the levodopa-treated group. These findings suggest that D. alata extract, particularly at a dose of 400 mg/kgBW, exhibits potential antiparkinsonian activity by elevating dopamine levels and mitigating dopaminergic neuronal damage in a haloperidol-induced PD mouse model.

Wound Healing Activity of Gel Nanoparticles of Rhaphidophora pinnnata Leaves Extract in Male Rats

Fathnur Sani Kasmadi — 2025-05-30

Rhaphidophora pinnata, a plant traditionally recognized for its wound-healing properties, contains active compounds such as megastigmane glycosides and damascenone, known for their anti-inflammatory effects. To enhance efficacy and user comfort, this study focused on developing an R. pinnata leaf extract nanoparticle gel. Previous research from our group highlighted the significant wound-healing potential of a conventional R. pinnata gel. This present study aimed to evaluate the wound-healing efficacy of a novel R. pinnata nanoparticle gel in male Wistar rats, specifically investigating the impact of nanotechnology application. Nanoparticles were successfully formulated via the ionic gelation method, utilizing 0.250 g of R. pinnata extract, 0.1% chitosan, 0.2% sodium tripolyphosphate, and 0.5% Tween 80. Characterization revealed an average nanoparticle size of 165.70±42.76 nm with a zeta potential of 22.0±1.83 mV. The wound-healing efficacy was assessed across five treatment groups: a positive control (Bioplasenton®), a plain gel base (Formula 0), and nanoparticle gels at 0.5% (Formula I), 1% (Formula II), and 1.5% (Formula III) extract concentrations. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA (p <0.05) demonstrated a significant difference in incision wound healing across the groups. Formula III, containing 1.5% R. pinnata nanoparticle extract, exhibited the most superior wound-healing effect, achieving 100% inhibition by day 14, elevated hydroxyproline levels (59 µg/mL), and histologically confirmed excellent skin tissue repair. Formulas II and I followed in efficacy. These compelling findings underscore the significant potential of utilizing nanotechnology in the development of topical preparations for accelerated and effective wound healing.

Piper cubeba L. f. Nanoemulsion: Formulation and Effect on Antioxidant Activity in Rat's Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex

Lusi Putri Dwita — 2025-05-30

The previous study showed that Piper cubeba extract increased brain antioxidant capacity, alleviating cognitive impairment in rats. However, brain-targeted drug delivery is often limited by the blood-brain barrier. One of the approaches to overcome this obstacle is nanocarrier. This study aimed to formulate a nanoemulsion (NE) of P. cubeba extract and determine the antioxidant activity in the brain. The research begins with the determination of excipients and the formula of NE. The formula was then tested for globule size, polydispersity index, thermodynamic stability, zeta potential, pH, and viscosity. The globule's shape was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antioxidant activity was tested by catalase and lipid peroxidase activity in the brain after giving NE orally for seven days. Formulations of NE resulted in nano-size globules and were stable thermodynamically. The NE formula significantly increased catalase and inhibited lipid peroxidase activities in the Rat's hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. This study resulted in a stable formula and low-cost production of P. cubeba extract NE, which is active as the brain's antioxidant and is feasible to develop as a neuroprotective agent for various neurodegenerative diseases.

Antidiabetic and TNF-α Lowering Effect of Tagetes erecta Extract in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Kadeq Novita Prajawanti — 2025-05-30

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by impaired insulin production or action, often leading to pancreatic $β$ -cell dysfunction and apoptosis. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, notably Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF- $α$ ), play a critical role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). While Tagetes erecta (marigold) has demonstrated potential in lowering blood glucose in hyperglycemic conditions, its anti-inflammatory effects in diabetic models remain underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic and TNF- $α$ lowering effects of T. erecta extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Twenty-five male Wistar rats were divided into a normal control group (n=5) and a diabetic group (n=20) induced by alloxan (blood glucose $\geq$ 126 mg/dL). Diabetic rats were then randomized into four treatment subgroups (n=5 each): untreated diabetic control, and diabetic groups treated with T. erecta extract at doses of 25 mg/kg BW, 50 mg/kg BW, or 75 mg/kg BW (administered intraperitoneally). Statistical analysis revealed that T. erecta extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats (p <0.05). Furthermore, the highest dose of T. erecta extract (75 mg/kg BW) effectively attenuated elevated TNF- $α$ levels, demonstrating a significant anti-inflammatory effect. In conclusion, this study provides compelling evidence that T. erecta extract exhibits both antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties by significantly lowering blood glucose and TNF- $α$ levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats, particularly at the 75 mg/kg BW dose.

Stability of Hand Body Gel Formulated with Avocado (Persea americana), Stingless Bee Honey, and Bee Pollen

Nur Fauziyah — 2025-05-30

The development of hand body care products in gel form, incorporating natural ingredients, remains an underexplored area, particularly concerning the combination of avocado (Persea americana) extract, Stingless bee (Trigona sp.) honey, and pollen in cosmetic formulations. Gel formulations are favored for their superior skin moisturizing properties and enhanced dermal absorption compared to lotions. This study aimed to evaluate the stability and moisturizing efficacy of novel hand body gel formulations containing varying ratios of P. americana extract combined with Trigona bee pollen and honey. Employing an experimental quantitative design, three distinct gel formulations were prepared with different concentrations of P. americana extract with Trigona bee pollen and honey. The stability of these formulations as skin moisturizers was assessed through a comprehensive evaluation encompassing organoleptic properties, homogeneity, potential for irritation, pH, spreadability, viscosity, and moisture content analysis using skin analysis instrumentation. The results indicated that the gel formulation designated F1, containing 2.5% P. americana extract and 7.5% honey combined with bee pollen, exhibited the highest skin moisture content, suggesting its potential as an effective moisturizing hand body gel.

Formulation and Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity of Instant Granules from 70% Ethanol Extract of Single Black Garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Abdul Aziz Setiawan — 2025-05-30

Free radicals contribute to various diseases by inducing oxidative stress. Single black garlic (Allium sativum L.) is recognized for its phenolic compounds, which possess radical-scavenging properties. This study aimed to develop and evaluate instant granules containing black A. sativum extract for their antioxidant activity and physicochemical characteristics. An instant granule formulation was developed using a 70% ethanol extract of a single black A. sativum, with three distinct formulas containing 5%, 7.5%, and 10% extract (Formulas 1, 2, and 3, respectively). The granules were subjected to comprehensive physical quality assessments, including organoleptic properties, moisture content, angle of repose, flow rate, dissolution time, and tapped density. Antioxidant activity was quantified using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, reporting IC₅₀ values. All instant granule formulations successfully met the established physical quality requirements across all evaluated parameters. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity demonstrated a concentration-dependent effect, with IC₅₀ values of 119.576 ppm for Formula 1, 82.000 ppm for Formula 2, and 59.962 ppm for Formula 3. This study confirms that instant granules formulated with a single black A. sativum extract exhibit significant antioxidant potential and possess desirable physical characteristics, indicating their promise as a natural antioxidant supplement.

Molecular Docking Study of Illicium verum Hook f. as Elastase and Collagenase Inhibitor in Anti-aging Mechanism

Ave Rahman — 2025-05-30

Skin aging, a natural physiological process intensified by external factors that augment the activity of aging-related enzymes such as elastase and collagenase, leads to the degradation of collagen solubility and the disruption of elastin fiber cross-linking. This study aimed to investigate the potential of secondary metabolites from Illicium verum fruit as inhibitors of both elastase and collagenase through an in silico molecular docking approach. The methodology involved ligand and protein preparation, validation of the docking protocol, the molecular docking simulation itself, and subsequent visualization of amino acid residue interactions. The protein targets utilized were elastase (PDB ID: 1Y93) and collagenase (PDB ID: 2D1N). The docking results identified gingerol as exhibiting the highest binding affinity for elastase (-7.99 kcal/mol), followed by carvacrol (-6.79 kcal/mol) and ferulic acid (-6.24 kcal/mol). Similarly, for collagenase, gingerol displayed the strongest interaction (-8.47 kcal/mol), followed by carvacrol (-6.30 kcal/mol) and α-pinene (-6.24 kcal/mol). Notably, gingerol and carvacrol also demonstrated favorable amino acid similarity scores and promising interactions within the active sites of both elastase and collagenase. In conclusion, this molecular docking study suggests that the secondary metabolites of I. verum fruit possess potential anti-aging activity by inhibiting elastase and collagenase enzymes.

Cover, Content, and Editorial Note from Borneo J Pharm Vol. 8 No. 2 May 2025

Chief Editor of Borneo J Pharm — 2025-05-30

Assalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb.

Alhamdulillahirabbil ‘alamin. The next edition of Borneo Journal of Pharmacy (Borneo J Pharm) has been published in May 2025. This edition contains ten articles: Pharmacology-Toxicology, Pharmaceutical, Analytical Pharmacy-Medicinal Chemistry, and Natural Product Development. This edition includes writings from two countries: Indonesia and Thailand. The authors come from several institutions, including Universitas Sari Mulia, Universitas Borneo Lestari, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Samarinda, Universitas Alma Ata, Universitas Jambi, Universitas Bengkulu, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof Dr Hamka, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Universitas Halu Oleo, Thammasat University, Universitas Jember, Universitas Airlangga, Universitas Anwar Medika, Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur, and Universitas Muhammadiyah A.R. Fachruddin.

Editorial boards are fully aware that there is still room for improvement in this edition; hence, with all humility, we are willing to accept constructive suggestions and feedback for improvements to the publication for the next editions. The editorial board would like to thank all editors, reviewers, and contributors of the scientific articles who have provided the repertoire in this issue. We hope that all parties, especially the contributors, could re-participate in the publication in the next edition in August 2025.

Wassalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb.