Development of Drugs for the Treatment of Athlets Foot Using Cassytia Filiformis

ABSTRACT Athlete’s foot, a common fungal infection primarily caused by dermatophytes like Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, affects millions of people globally. Conventional antifungal treatments, while effective, often come with side effects and high costs, necessitating the exploration of alternative natural remedies. Cassythia filiformis, a parasitic plant known for its medicinal properties, has shown potential as a natural antifungal agent. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Cassytha filiformis extract in treating athlete’s foot and to compare its antifungal properties with conventional treatments. Using Sox let extraction with ethanol, the extract's antifungal activity was tested against *Trichophyton rubrum* and *Trichophyton mentagrophytes* at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% through the agar well diffusion method. Phytochemical analysis identified bioactive compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, and beta-sitosterol. The extract demonstrated significant antifungal effects, with the 15% concentration showing a zone of inhibition measuring 20 mm, comparable to terbinafine's 25 mm. In vitro cytotoxicity assays on human keratinocyte cells indicated low cytotoxicity, suggesting the extract is safe for topical use. Stability tests confirmed that the extract based ointments maintained their properties over a three-month period under various storage conditions. Preliminary patient case studies reported notable improvements in athlete’s foot symptoms with no adverse effects. These findings suggest that Cassytha filiformis extract is a promising natural alternative for the treatment of athlete’s foot, with potent antifungal activity and a favorable safety profile. Further research, including extensive clinical trials, is recommended to fully validate its efficacy and safety.