Lotion deodorant formulation of ethanolic extract of red betel leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav) with stearic acid as base

Abstract Background: Red betel leaf (P. crocatum Ruiz & Pav) possesses antibacterial properties, so the prospect is to be developed as a deodorant in lotion dosage forms. Objective: This study was conducted with the intention to prepare, evaluate, and investigate the stability of deodorant lotion preparations from the ethanolic extract of red betel leaf (P. crocatum Ruiz & Pav) based on stearic acid. Methods: The maceration method used 70% ethanol as solvent to obtain red betel leaf extract. Furthermore, the concentrated extract was formulated as a deodorant lotion formula into three formulas, FI, FII, and FIII, with varying concentrations of stearic acid 2, 4, and 6%, respectively. All the deodorant lotion formulas were evaluated, their characteristics and stability of organoleptic, pH, homogeneity, viscosity, spreadability, adhesion, and irritation properties. The physical stability test was done by cycling test. The storage stability test was evaluated for 28 days. Results: Evaluation of physical properties for 28 days showed that deodorant lotion was homogeneous and pH in the range of 5.5-6.4; viscosity, spreadability, and adhesion tests gave good results and stability. In the irritation test, all formulas showed no irritation. Statistical test paired T-test on stability testing during storage and cycling test showed that the best and most stable formula was F3 with 6% stearic acid concentration. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of red betel leaf (P. crocatum Ruiz & Pav) can be formulated into a deodorant lotion preparation that is stable and good during storage. Keywords: deodorant lotion, Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav, stearic acid