Effect of O/W process parameters on Crataegus azarolus L nanocapsule properties

Akbar Esmaeili,Soraya Rahnamoun,Fariba Sharifnia

doi:10.1186/1477-3155-11-16

Abstract

BackgroundNanocapsules have many applications in the drug, cosmetic, fragrance, and food industries. In this study, Crataegus azarolus L. nanocapsules were prepared by a modified emulsion diffusion technique.MethodsIn this technique a shell was first made from the polyester triblock copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(butylene adipate)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-PBA-PEG) and then olive oil was set as the core of the nanocapsule by a method known as the polymer deposition solvent evaporation method. Varying amounts of C. azarolus extract, polymer, and olive oil were mixed in acetone and then added to water on a shaker. Finally, the acetone was removed by vacuuming.ResultsThe size of the prepared nanocapsules were measured with a particle size analysis report (PSAR) and identified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).ConclusionsOur experiments showed that the size of the nanocapsules depends on the preparation conditions, i.e., the ratio of polymer to oil and concentrations of polymer and plant extract. A ratio of 1:0.25 polymer to oil was shown to be more suitable for the formation of smaller nanocapsules of C. azarolus.

Highlights

Nanocapsules have many applications in the drug, cosmetic, fragrance, and food industries
According to Quintanar et al (1998, 2005), nanocapsules prepared with the emulsion-diffusion method can be utilized for both lipophilic and hydrophilic active substances [11]
Nanocapsules loaded with medicinal plants have many applications in drug manufacturing, as well as other industrial and commercial uses

Summary

Introduction

Nanocapsules have many applications in the drug, cosmetic, fragrance, and food industries. Crataegus azarolus L. nanocapsules were prepared by a modified emulsion diffusion technique. The fruit and flowers of this plant have a hypotensive effect as well as acting as a direct and mild heart tonic. They are especially useful in the treatment of heart conditions associated with high blood pressure. In most European countries, especially Germany, hawthorn, which belongs to the Rosaceae family, is used to treat irregular heartbeat. It can be applied in the treatment of angina and arteriosclerosis (hardening of the vessel wall).

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Conclusion