Formulation and characterization of antioxidant phytosome gel of kersen leaves (Muntingia calabura l.)

Abstract

Introduction: Kersen leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) provide a great source of antioxidant activity, but have poor bioavailability through the skin. The use of Phytosome Delivery System was one of the strategies to increase the penetration to the skin. Objective: This study aimed to develop the formula of Kersen leaves ethanol extract in Phytosome vesicles and to evaluate the stability of the phytosome Gel. Method: Evaluation of phytosome gel stability was performed by cycling test includes observation of the organoleptic, pH, vis-cosity, spreadability, homogeneity, and the last was centrifugal tests to see the occurrence of phase separation of the gel. Result: The results showed that phytosome of Kersen-leaves can be formulated in a gel dosage form with a concentration of Carbopol 940 at 0.5%, 1% and 1.5%. The formula of phytosome gel with gelling agent concentration 1% showed a good organo-leptic, pH 6, the viscosity was 300 d.Pa.s, homogeneity, and there was no phase separation occurred after the centrifugal test. Conclusion: This study provides an alternative method for utilizing antioxidant compounds from nature.