Complexation with hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin of birch tree extract physico-chemical characterisation of their binary products

Abstract

Birch bark contains important pentacyclic triterpens that determine an anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity. The compounds can be extracted by simple procedures with organic solvents. The major problem of this type of triterpens is their low water solubility which can be increased by physical procedures like cyclodextrin complexation. The aim of present study was to analyse the products between birch bark extract and hydroxypropyl-γ- cyclodextrin. Hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin (HPGCD) was used as a host to improve its solubility in water, via inclusion complex formation. In order to obtain the inclusion complexes, 1:2 molar ratio and two preparation methods (physical mixing, kneading) were used. The inclusion complexes were analyzed by in vitro dissolution tests, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction.