Development and Evaluation of Vaginal Suppository Containing Althaea officinalis L. Polysaccharide Extract

Intrauterine adhesions cause several gynecological problems. Althaea officinalis L. roots known as marshmallows contain polysaccharides (M.P.) which possess anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcerogenic activities also can form a bio-adhesive layer on damaged epithelial membranes prompting healing processes. Vaginal formulations of herbal origin are commonly applied to relieve cervico-uterine inflammation. Herein, we aim develop evaluate vaginal suppositories containing isolated from the A. root. Six (four P.E.G.-based two lipid-based 25% 50% M.P.) met standard requirements, were then subjected qualitative quantitative evaluation. All exhibited acceptable weights, hardness, content uniformity, melting point, disintegration time, fall within recommended limits. Higher concentrations M.P. in PEG-bases moderately increased hardness (p<0.05). PEG-formulations showed uniformity>90% average while it was 75-83% for suppocire formulations. disintegrated in<30minutes. In-vitro release test revealed that 25%-MP higher than 50%-M.P. suppositories. Overall, results feasibility preparing P.E.G.-or M.P., B.P. quality requirement.