Enhancement of Icariin Aphrodisiac Effect by Solid-SNEDDS Method Using Shark Liver Oil Phase

Abstract

The Epimedium brevicornu Maxim plant contains icariin, a flavonoid compound known for its aphrodisiac effects. However, icariin has low solubility and bioavailability. This study aims to find the best formula for S-SNEDDS icariin, its physical properties, characteristics, and aphrodisiac activity. Using the S-SNEDDS (Solid-Self Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System) method with shark liver oil phase is expected to increase the solubility and bioavailability of icariin. The optimum formula used is tween 80 (72.5%): PEG 400 (13.75%) and shark liver oil (13.75%). The optimal formula of S-SNEDDS icariin with the adsorption method to solid carriers requires aerosol 200 as much as 783±28.86mg per 1mL. S-SNEDDS icariin has characteristics with an average emulsification time of 12.88±0.26 seconds, transmittance value of 98.08±0.94%, droplet size 171.8±8.9 nm, zeta potential -35.2±1.1 mV, flow speed less than 10 seconds, resting angle 35.159°. The dissolution test of S-SNEDDS icariin is better than icariin instead of S-SNEDDS. S-SNEDDS icariin dose 50 mg/KgBW has a better aphrodisiac effect than pure icariin 100 mg/kgBW.