Preparation and Standardization of Vaginal Suppository from Punica granatum Flower Extract Known as “Golnar” in Persian Medicine

Abstract

Background: Punica granatum L. flower, known as “Persian Golnar”, is used in Persian medicine to treat excessive menstrual bleeding. Most therapeutic activities of pomegranate are due to the presence of phenolic compounds such as ellagitannins and gallotannins. Aim: This study served the purpose of developing and standardizing P. granatum vaginal suppository. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic and tannin content were assessed for both the extract and the final formula. Moreover, physicochemical properties of vaginal suppository such as appearance, weight variation, melting point, and dissolution test were evaluated. Results and Discussion: It was indicated by the findings of this study that the odorless suppositories have a brownish-red color and uniform appearance with an average weight of 2.06 ± 0.04 and a melting time of 28.93 ± 0.40. 100% of the plant extract was released for up to 90 min after administration. The results also indicated that the average phenolic percentages of the extract and suppositories were 17.03 % and 15.73% within three days respectively. Conclusion: P. granatum flower extract as a vaginal suppository can be applied as an anti-hemorrhagic agent due to the presence of polyphenols, particularly tannins, in the extract.