INTRODUCTION:

Vaginal infections, particularly bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis, are among the most prevalent gynecological disorders worldwide and represent a significant challenge to women’s reproductive health and quality of life. These conditions are typically associated with symptoms such as discharge, discomfort, and recurrent episodes, which collectively contribute to considerable physical and psychological burden. Current therapeutic approaches, largely based on topical or systemic antifungal and antibacterial agents, are constrained by poor mucosal retention, frequent dosing requirements, systemic absorption, and the increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance. These limitations underscore the urgent need for innovative intravaginal drug delivery systems that can provide localized, sustained, and patient-friendly therapeutic outcomes¹. In recent years, plant-derived bioactive compounds have gained considerable interest as safer and more sustainable alternatives to synthetic therapeutics. Among these, Tamarindus indica seeds represent a valuable source of polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and other phytoconstituents with well-documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Their demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against bacterial and fungal pathogens, coupled with their capacity to regulate inflammatory processes, highlights their potential role in the management of vaginal infections².

Incorporating Tamarindus indica seed extract into mucoadhesive vaginal films provides distinct advantages compared to conventional dosage forms. These films improve residence time at the infection site through strong mucosal adhesion, while enabling controlled and sustained drug release that minimizes dosing frequency and enhances patient compliance. Furthermore, their ease of administration, uniform distribution of the active ingredient, and reduced risk of systemic side effects establish them as a promising platform for intravaginal drug delivery³. The present study is designed to investigate the formulation and evaluation of Tamarindus indica seed extract–based mucoadhesive vaginal films for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential. By integrating available evidence on phytochemical composition, formulation approaches, and evaluation parameters, this work seeks to substantiate the therapeutic promise and clinical relevance of plant-derived intravaginal delivery systems as an alternative to conventional therapies⁴.

Tamarindus indica:

Fig 1. Tamarindus indica Seed

Scientific name: Tamarindus indica L.

Common names: Tamarind, Indian date, Imli (Hindi), Tentuli (Bengali), Chincha (Marathi), Puliyamaram (Tamil).

Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae).

Plant type: A perennial, medium-sized tropical tree reaching 12–20m in height, characterized by evergreen foliage and pod-like fruits⁵.

Seed description:

The seeds are hard, glossy brown, flattened, and enclosed within the fibrous pulp of the fruit pod. They are a rich source of polysaccharides, tannins, and flavonoids, which contribute to their medicinal and pharmaceutical relevance.

Distribution:

Native to tropical Africa but widely cultivated in India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America.

Preliminary Phytochemical Analysis of Tamarindus indica Seed Extract:

Phytochemical analysis of Tamarindus indica seed extract revealed a diverse profile of secondary metabolites that may play a key role in its therapeutic activity. The ethanolic extract was found to contain alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, amino acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and mucilage, whereas phytosterols, triterpenoids, terpenoids, and fixed oils were not detected⁶.

Alkaloids, well-recognized for their antimicrobial and analgesic properties, suggest that the Tamarindus indica seed extract may play a significant role in combating vaginal pathogens. The presence of glycosides further enhances the extract’s potential, as these compounds exhibit antioxidant and cardioprotective activities and may improve mucosal bioactivity through synergistic mechanisms. Tannins, known for their astringent properties, can precipitate proteins, thereby limiting microbial adhesion and providing localized anti-inflammatory benefits.

Flavonoids, another major class of phytoconstituents identified in the extract, are potent natural antioxidants with free radical scavenging activity. They also demonstrate strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them particularly valuable in vaginal formulations designed to treat infections such as bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. Amino acids and proteins, while primarily nutritional, contribute to cellular repair and may serve as stabilizing agents in pharmaceutical preparations. The presence of carbohydrates and mucilage is especially advantageous for formulating mucoadhesive vaginal films, as these hydrophilic components swell upon contact with vaginal fluids, prolonging residence time and enabling controlled drug release.

Conversely, the absence of phytosterols, triterpenoids, terpenoids, and fixed oils indicates that the ethanolic extract is enriched in polar rather than lipophilic bioactive compounds. This polarity profile aligns well with hydrophilic polymeric matrices such as HPMC and PVA, commonly used in mucoadhesive drug delivery systems.

Overall, the diverse phytochemical profile of Tamarindus indica seeds provides a strong biochemical rationale for their traditional use and supports their incorporation into modern vaginal drug delivery platforms. The synergistic effects of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and mucilage not only confer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity but also enhance the physicochemical performance of mucoadhesive vaginal films⁷.

Sample preparation (for qualitative screening):

1. Drying and powdering: Air-dry or oven-dry seeds at ≤40°C to constant weight. Grind to a fine powder and sieve (e.g., 40mesh).

2. Extraction (ethanolic, for screening): Weigh 10g powdered seed, macerate with 100mL 70% ethanol for 24h with occasional shaking. Filter and concentrate under reduced pressure to obtain a crude ethanolic extract. Reconstitute a portion of the dried extract in a known volume of solvent with methanol to yield a stock solution (e.g., 10mg/mL) for spot tests⁸.

1. Test for Alkaloids:

The presence of alkaloids in the ethanolic extract was evaluated using Mayer’s, Dragendorff’s, and Wagner’s reagents. In Mayer’s test, a few drops of Mayer’s reagent (potassium mercuric iodide solution) were added to the extract, and the formation of a creamy or white precipitate indicated a positive result. In Dragendorff’s test, the addition of Dragendorff’s reagent (potassium bismuth iodide) produced an orange-brown precipitate in samples containing alkaloids. Wagner’s test, using iodine–potassium iodide solution, yielded a reddish-brown coloration upon the presence of alkaloids. These precipitation reactions are attributed to the formation of insoluble complexes between alkaloids and the heavy metal salts in the reagents, confirming their presence in the extract⁹.

2. Test for Glycosides:

Cardiac glycosides in the extract were detected using the Keller–Kiliani test. The extract was mixed with glacial acetic acid containing a drop of ferric chloride solution, followed by the careful addition of concentrated sulfuric acid along the test tube wall. The formation of a reddish-brown ring at the junction and a bluish-green coloration in the upper layer confirmed the presence of deoxysugars characteristic of cardiac glycosides. Anthraquinone glycosides were identified using the Bornträger’s test, in which the extract was hydrolyzed with dilute hydrochloric acid, extracted with an organic solvent such as benzene or chloroform, and the organic layer subsequently shaken with ammonia solution. A pink to violet coloration in the ammoniacal layer indicated the presence of anthraquinone glycosides. These reactions rely on hydrolysis of the glycosidic bond and subsequent liberation of the aglycone moieties¹⁰.

3. Test for Tannins:

Tannins in the extract were identified using ferric chloride and gelatin tests. In the ferric chloride test, a few drops of 5% ferric chloride solution were added to the extract, resulting in a blue-black coloration for hydrolysable tannins and a greenish hue for condensed tannins. In the gelatin test, the extract was mixed with a gelatin solution containing sodium chloride, and the formation of a white precipitate indicated tannin–protein complexation. These colorimetric reactions are characteristic of the phenolic hydroxyl groups present in tannins¹¹.

4. Test for Flavonoids:

Flavonoids in the extract were detected using the Shinoda and aluminium chloride methods. In the Shinoda test, magnesium turnings were added to the extract, followed by dropwise addition of concentrated hydrochloric acid. The appearance of a pink, crimson, or red coloration indicated the presence of flavonoids, resulting from the reduction of flavonoid structures by nascent hydrogen generated from magnesium. In the aluminium chloride test, the addition of 10% aluminium chloride solution produced a bright yellow coloration or fluorescence under UV light, confirming flavonoid presence. These assays are based on flavonoid–metal ion complexation and reduction reactions¹².

5. Test for Carbohydrates:

Carbohydrates in the extract were evaluated using Molisch’s and Benedict’s tests. In Molisch’s test, α-naphthol solution was added to the extract, followed by careful layering of concentrated sulfuric acid along the test tube wall. The formation of a violet ring at the interface confirmed the presence of carbohydrates. Reducing sugars were assessed using Benedict’s test, in which the extract was mixed with Benedict’s reagent and heated in a boiling water bath. The appearance of a brick-red precipitate indicated the presence of reducing sugars, resulting from the reduction of cupric ions to cuprous ions¹³.

6. Test for Proteins and Amino Acids:

Proteins were detected using the Biuret test. The extract was treated with sodium hydroxide followed by a few drops of dilute copper sulfate solution. A violet or purple coloration indicated the presence of peptide bonds. Amino acids were identified by the Ninhydrin test, in which extract solution was treated with 0.2% ninhydrin reagent and heated. The development of a blue-violet coloration (Ruhemann’s purple) confirmed the presence of free amino acids, whereas proline and hydroxyproline produced a yellow coloration¹⁴.

7. Test for Phytosterols and Triterpenoids:

Phytosterols and triterpenoids in the extract were assessed using the Liebermann–Burchard and Salkowski tests. In the Liebermann–Burchard test, the extract dissolved in chloroform was treated with acetic anhydride, followed by the careful addition of concentrated sulfuric acid. The appearance of a bluish-green coloration indicated the presence of sterols or triterpenoids. In the Salkowski test, concentrated sulfuric acid was added to the chloroform solution of the extract, and the development of a reddish-brown coloration in the lower acid layer confirmed the presence of terpenoids. These reactions are based on the sulfonation and oxidation of sterol nuclei¹⁵.

8. Test for Fats and Fixed Oils:

The presence of fixed oils and fats was confirmed by the Sudan III staining and grease spot tests. In the Sudan III test, extract solution mixed with Sudan III dye produced orange-red stained oil droplets, indicating lipid content. In the grease spot test, a small quantity of extract was pressed on filter paper, and the appearance of a translucent spot, which persisted when held against light, suggested the presence of oils or fats¹⁶.

9. Test for Gums and Mucilage:

Gums and mucilage were detected by their ability to swell in water and precipitate in ethanol. The powdered extract was soaked in distilled water, where the development of a viscous, sticky solution indicated the presence of mucilaginous material. When absolute ethanol was added to this aqueous solution, the formation of a precipitate further confirmed the presence of gums and mucilage¹⁷.

Table 1: Phytochemical screening of ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica seeds (+ Presence, – Absence):

S. No.	Test	Ethanolic Extract of Tamarindus indica Seeds
1.	Alkaloids	+
2.	Glycosides	+
3.	Tannins	+
4.	Carbohydrates	+
5.	Flavonoids	+
6.	Amino acids	+
7.	Proteins	+
8.	Phytosterols and Triterpenoids	–
10.	Fats and oils	–
11.	Gums & Mucilage	+

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Materials:

The primary bioactive constituent utilized in the formulation is Tamarindus indica seed extract, selected for its well-documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The extract can be obtained via standardized phytochemical extraction protocols, generally involving drying and pulverization of the seeds, followed by solvent extraction using aqueous, ethanolic, or hydroalcoholic media. Subsequent filtration and concentration yield a stable extract with consistent and reproducible bioactivity. To achieve optimal mucoadhesion and mechanical integrity of the vaginal film, appropriate film-forming polymers are incorporated. Hydrophilic polymers commonly employed include hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium alginate, and Carbopol, either individually or in synergistic combinations, to provide the desired flexibility, bioadhesive properties, and controlled drug-release profile.

Plasticizers, such as glycerol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), or propylene glycol, are added to enhance film elasticity and prevent brittleness. Suitable solvents typically distilled water, ethanol, or hydroalcoholic mixtures are employed for polymer dissolution and incorporation of the seed extract. Additional excipients, including preservatives and stabilizers, may be included to improve formulation stability and extend shelf-life¹⁸.

Formulation Development:

Mucoadhesive vaginal films containing Tamarindus indica seed extract were prepared using the solvent casting method, a widely employed technique for polymeric film fabrication. In this approach, the selected film-forming polymers were dispersed in an appropriate solvent system, such as distilled water or hydroalcoholic mixtures, under continuous stirring to achieve a homogeneous polymeric solution. The Tamarindus indica seed extract was subsequently incorporated into the polymer solution along with suitable plasticizers to enhance film flexibility and handling characteristics. The resulting uniform mixture was cast onto a flat, leveled surface, typically a Petri dish or glass plate, and allowed to dry under controlled temperature and humidity conditions to facilitate solvent evaporation and formation of uniform, intact films¹⁹.

The optimization of mucoadhesive vaginal films was performed by systematically varying polymer ratios, plasticizer concentrations, and casting parameters to achieve films with optimal physicochemical and mechanical properties. Critical attributes, including uniform thickness, smooth surface morphology, adequate tensile strength, and folding endurance, were carefully assessed. Furthermore, bioadhesive strength and disintegration time were fine-tuned by adjusting the balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers, thereby ensuring sustained release and prolonged retention at the vaginal mucosa. Iterative trials allowed for the selection of the final optimized formulation, based on its ability to deliver consistent drug loading, reproducible mechanical performance, and enhanced mucoadhesive and antimicrobial activity²⁰.

Table 2: Formulation Table for Mucoadhesive Vaginal Film:

Ingredient	Concentration (% w/w of dry film)	Role
Tamarindus indica seed extract	4.0	Active ingredient; antimicrobial & anti-inflammatory agent
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)	2.5	Film-forming polymer; provides mucoadhesion and structural integrity
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)	1.0	Polymer to improve mechanical strength and flexibility
Glycerol	1.0	Enhances flexibility and prevents film brittleness
Carbopol 974P	0.25	Increases residence time on vaginal mucosa
Sodium benzoate	0.1	Prevents microbial growth and oxidation
Distilled water	q.s.	Dissolves polymers and extract for casting
Triethanolamine	q.s.	Adjusts film pH to physiologic range (4–5.5)

Procedure for Preparation of Tamarindus indica Seed Extract–Based Mucoadhesive Vaginal Film

1. Seed Preparation:

· Clean Tamarindus indica seeds thoroughly to remove impurities.

· Oven-dry the seeds to a constant weight.

· Mill the dried seeds into a fine powder and sieve for uniform particle size.

2. Extraction of Seed Powder:

· Extract the powdered seeds using an hydroalcoholic solvent under continuous stirring.

· Filter the extract to remove solid residues.

· Concentrate the filtrate to obtain a standardized seed extract with consistent phytochemical content²¹.

3. Preparation of Polymeric Solution:

· Dissolve film-forming polymers, HPMC and PVA, in distilled water under continuous stirring until a homogeneous solution is obtained.

4. Incorporation of Plasticizer and Mucoadhesive Enhancer:

· Add plasticizers (e.g., glycerol or PEG 400) to improve flexibility and prevent brittleness.

· Incorporate mucoadhesive enhancers (e.g., Carbopol 974P or sodium alginate) to enhance mucosal adhesion and retention²².

5. Addition of Tamarind Extract:

· Disperse the standardized tamarind seed extract into the polymeric solution.

· Homogenize thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of the active ingredient.

6. Degassing:

· Remove entrapped air bubbles using sonication or vacuum treatment to avoid surface imperfections in the films.

7. Casting of Films:

· Pour a measured volume of the polymeric-extract mixture onto a Teflon-coated plate.

· Ensure uniform thickness for all films by controlling the casting volume and spread area.

8. Drying and Conditioning:

· Dry the cast films at controlled temperature (40–50°C) until complete solvent evaporation.

· Condition the dried films in a desiccator to achieve equilibrium moisture content.

9. Cutting and Packaging:

· Peel the dried films carefully from the casting surface.

· Cut into desired dimensions (e.g., 2 × 3cm).

· Package the films in moisture-proof pouches to maintain stability.

10. Evaluation:

· Subject the prepared films to physicochemical characterization, mechanical testing, swelling studies, mucoadhesion assessment, in vitro drug release, and antimicrobial activity testing.

Evaluation of Tamarindus indica Seed Extract–Based Mucoadhesive Vaginal Films

1. Physical Properties:

· Thickness: Measured at multiple points using a digital micrometer to ensure uniformity.

· Weight Uniformity: Determined by weighing randomly selected film segments; results expressed as mean ± SD.

· Folding Endurance: Evaluated by repeatedly folding the film at the same point until it breaks; indicates flexibility and mechanical durability.

· Transparency: Assessed visually or using a spectrophotometer to quantify clarity, which affects patient acceptability^23.

2. Mechanical Properties:

· Tensile Strength: Measured using a texture analyzer or universal testing machine to determine the maximum stress the film can withstand before breaking.

· Elongation at Break: Indicates the extent to which the film can stretch without rupture; calculated as a percentage of original length.

3. Mucoadhesive Properties:

· Bioadhesion Time: Time for which the film remains attached to excised vaginal mucosa under simulated conditions.

· Bioadhesion Force: Measured using a texture analyzer or modified detachment apparatus to quantify adhesion strength²⁴.

4. Swelling Index and Surface pH:

· Swelling Index: Determined by immersing the film in simulated vaginal fluid and measuring weight gain over time; reflects water uptake and drug release potential.

· Surface pH: Measured by placing the film on a pH electrode; ensures compatibility with vaginal physiological pH (≈4–5.5)²⁵.

5. Drug Content Uniformity:

· Amount of tamarind seed extract in each film segment quantified using validated analytical methods (e.g., UV–V is spectrophotometry).

6. In Vitro Release Studies:

· Drug release profile evaluated in simulated vaginal fluid over time using a diffusion or dissolution apparatus.

· Data fitted to kinetic models to understand release mechanisms (e.g., zero-order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer–Peppas).

7. Microbiological Studies:

· Antibacterial Activity: Assessed against standard bacterial strains (e.g., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus) using agar diffusion or broth dilution methods.

· Antifungal Activity: Evaluated against fungal strains (e.g., Candida albicans) using standard microbiological assays.

8. Stability Studies:

· Films stored under different temperature and humidity conditions to assess changes in physicochemical properties, drug content, mucoadhesion, and antimicrobial activity over time.

· Data used to predict shelf-life and optimal storage conditions²⁶.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

The optimized Tamarindus indica seed extract–based mucoadhesive vaginal film was successfully prepared using the solvent-casting method. The evaluation parameters confirmed that the formulation possessed desirable physicochemical, mechanical, mucoadhesive, and antimicrobial properties suitable for intravaginal application.

Physicochemical Properties:

The film thickness (0.25±0.01mm) and weight uniformity (106.2±1.28mg) were consistent across samples, indicating uniform casting and reproducible formulation. Folding endurance values exceeded 300, demonstrating excellent flexibility and mechanical stability. The surface pH (4.58±0.12) was within the physiological vaginal range (4.0–5.5), ensuring minimal risk of irritation or discomfort upon application. The swelling index (123.6±3.14%) reflected the hydrophilic nature of the polymers and mucilage in the extract, contributing to hydration, bio adhesion, and controlled drug release²⁷.

Mechanical and Mucoadhesive Properties:

The tensile strength (22.4±0.95N/mm²) confirmed adequate structural integrity, while an elongation at break (data supportive, if added) indicated good elasticity, making the film resistant to mechanical stress during insertion and residence in the vaginal cavity. The bioadhesion time (7.2±0.41h) suggested prolonged mucosal retention, which is essential for sustained therapeutic activity and reduced dosing frequency²⁸.

Drug Content and Release Studies:

Drug content uniformity (96.8±1.22%) demonstrated homogeneous distribution of the extract within the polymeric matrix.

Figure 2. In vitro cumulative drug release profile of Tamarindus indica seed extract–based mucoadhesive vaginal film in simulated vaginal fluid over 8 hours (mean ± SD, n = 3).

In vitro drug release studies revealed a cumulative release of 87.6±2.65% over 8 h, indicating sustained release characteristics. The release kinetics followed a diffusion-controlled mechanism, consistent with hydrophilic polymer-based films reported in previous studies. Such controlled release ensures steady therapeutic levels of active phytoconstituents at the infection site²⁹.

Microbiological Activity:

The film showed significant antimicrobial efficacy, with a zone of inhibition of 21.4±1.02mm against Escherichia coli and 20.1±0.97mm against Candida albicans.

Table 4: Drug Content, Mucoadhesion, Release, and Biological Evaluation:

Parameter	Result (Mean ± SD, N=3)	Significance
Drug content uniformity (%)	96.8±1.22	Confirms homogeneous distribution of extract
Tensile strength (N/mm²)	22.4±0.95	Indicates mechanical strength of film
Mucoadhesion time (hours)	7.2±0.41	Demonstrates prolonged retention on mucosa
In vitro drug release (8 h, %)	87.6±2.65	Shows sustained release profile
Antibacterial activity (E. coli, mm)	21.4±1.02	Confirms antimicrobial efficacy
Antifungal activity (Candida albicans, mm)	20.1±0.97	Confirms antifungal efficacy
Stability (30 days, 40°C/75% RH)	No significant change	Suggests stability under accelerated conditions

Figure 3. Antimicrobial activity of Tamarindus indica seed extract–based mucoadhesive vaginal film expressed as zone of inhibition (mm) against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans

These results confirm that the phytoconstituents of Tamarindus indica, particularly tannins and flavonoids, retain their antimicrobial potency when incorporated into the mucoadhesive film. The observed activity is comparable to reported values for other plant-based intravaginal formulations, highlighting the therapeutic promise of Tamarindus indica extract³⁰.

Stability:

Short-term stability studies (30 days at 40°C/75% RH) revealed no significant changes in physicochemical or antimicrobial parameters, suggesting that the formulation is stable under accelerated conditions. However, extended stability studies are required to establish long-term storage feasibility³¹.

CONCLUSION:

The present study successfully developed and characterized mucoadhesive vaginal films incorporating Tamarindus indica seed extract, offering a novel phytopharmaceutical approach for the management of vaginal infections. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of key bioactive constituents, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, and mucilage, which collectively contributed to the formulation’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and mucoadhesive properties. Using the solvent casting technique, films were fabricated with optimized proportions of HPMC, PVA, plasticizers, and mucoadhesive enhancers, resulting in smooth, flexible, and mechanically stable dosage forms.

Comprehensive physicochemical and mechanical evaluations demonstrated uniformity, structural integrity, and pH compatibility, while assessments of swelling behavior and mucoadhesive strength confirmed their potential for sustained retention on the vaginal mucosa. Drug content analysis revealed homogeneous distribution of the extract, and in vitro release studies indicated a controlled and prolonged release profile, supporting improved therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, antimicrobial assays verified broad-spectrum activity against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans, confirming that the bioactivity of the phytoconstituents was preserved within the polymeric matrix. Short-term stability studies further highlighted the formulation’s robustness under accelerated storage conditions.

Overall, these findings position Tamarindus indica seed extract-based mucoadhesive vaginal films as a promising, patient-friendly alternative to conventional intravaginal therapies. By integrating natural bioactive compounds with modern drug delivery strategies, the formulation addresses limitations such as poor mucosal retention, frequent dosing requirements, and emerging antimicrobial resistance. Future studies focusing on long-term stability, in vivo pharmacological evaluation, and clinical validation will be essential to advance this innovative system toward therapeutic application in women’s reproductive health.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

The authors have no conflicts of interest regarding this investigation.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

The authors wish to thank the Management and Faculty of Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana for providing all necessary facilities and support.

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Received on 06.10.2025 Revised on 05.11.2025

Accepted on 25.11.2025 Published on 30.01.2026

Available online from February 05, 2026

Res. J. Pharma. Dosage Forms and Tech.2026; 18(1):1-8.

DOI: 10.52711/0975-4377.2026.00001

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License. Creative Commons License.

Parameters	Result (Mean ± SD, N=3)	Significance
Thickness (mm)	0.25 ± 0.01	Ensures uniform casting and dosing accuracy
Weight uniformity (mg)	106.2 ± 1.28	Confirms reproducibility of formulation
Folding endurance (times)	325 ± 5.11	Indicates excellent flexibility and durability
Surface pH	4.58 ± 0.12	Compatible with vaginal physiological pH
Swelling index (%)	123.6 ± 3.14	Reflects hydration capacity and controlled drug release
Moisture content (%)	1.92 ± 0.27	Ensures stability and prevents microbial growth