Optimization of stearic acid and triethanolamine in the cream formulation of ethyl acetate fraction of clove leaves (Syzygium aromaticum l.)

The ethyl acetate portion of clove leaves is a potential ingredient for topical applications. However, achieving the ideal stability and physical characteristics remains a significant challenge. This study's goal was to use simplex lattice design to calculate the ratio of stearic acid to triethanolamine in a cream formulation that contained the ethyl acetate fraction of clove leaves. Triethanolamine was then adjusted from 2 to 4% and stearic acid from 14 to 16%. The parameters that were put to the test were adhesiveness, spreadability, pH, and viscosity. In contrast to lower viscosity (7,117–9,137 cPs) and adhesiveness (1.13–1.90 s), the results showed that an increase in triethanolamine concentration resulted in greater pH (7.43–8.46) and spreadability (4.70–6.68 cm). Higher stearic acid concentrations, on the other hand, increased viscosity and adhesiveness while decreasing pH and spreadability (p<0.05), however, all parameters remained within acceptable limits. These findings indicate that although the optimized formulation exhibits good physical characteristics, further formulation improvements are required to enhance long-term storage stability.