Antimicrobial activity of Andrographis paniculata intimate wash and commercial formulations against vaginal pathogens using the broth microdilution method.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of a newly formulated Andrographis paniculata intimate wash in comparison with commercial brands (SebaMed®, Sumber Ayu, Lactacyd®, and Good Virtue & Co.) against vaginal pathogens. The antimicrobial activity of each formulation was tested against Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. Additionally, Lactobacillus crispatus was tested to ensure the formulations did not inhibit normal vaginal flora. Methods: The broth microdilution method was used to assess antimicrobial efficacy by calculating the percentage of microbial inhibition. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for A. paniculata and commercial intimate washes against the tested pathogens, except for L. crispatus, due to the inability to observe turbidity. Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was evaluated for the A. paniculata intimate wash against the same pathogens. Results: The A. paniculata intimate wash showed the highest percentage of microbial inhibition across all tested pathogens. It also recorded MIC and MBC values of 3.125 mg/ml against E. coli and C. albicans. Among commercial products, SebaMed® demonstrated the strongest antimicrobial effect against S. agalactiae at the same MIC concentration. The study concluded that the A. paniculata intimate wash is a potentially effective treatment for selected vaginal pathogens at higher concentrations and may promote the growth of L. crispatus. SebaMed®, a clinically established product, also exhibited notable antimicrobial properties. However, further in vivo and clinical trials are necessary to confirm efficacy and assess toxicity. The study highlights the need for continued research into the potential of herbal intimate washes for treating vaginal infections.