Exploiting lemon peel extract in orodispersible granule formulation using green banana flours as natural superdisintegrant

Abstract

Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need to bolster immunity. This study endeavors to address this necessity by formulating orodispersible herbal granules enriched with lemon peel extract, recognized for its immune-boosting attributes. The extraction of lemon peel was facilitated through ultrasound, followed by meticulous evaluations encompassing color, solubility, and yield. Disintegrants, ranging from 2% to 6% concentrations of banana flour, were incorporated into granule formulations. The compatibility of lemon peel extract with other constituents was scrutinized via FTIR and DSC analyses. Utilizing a design-of-experiment (DoE) strategy employing a 32 full factorial design, formulations were synthesized and assessed for various parameters, including flow properties, density, disintegration time, and release attributes.Analysis revealed lemon peel extract's significant phenolic content (185 mg Gallic acid equivalent/gm) and flavonoid content (170 gm Quercetin equivalent/gm of extract). The orodispersible granules exhibited favorable flow properties, demonstrating rapid dissolution within 45 to 59 seconds. In vivo assessments showcased heightened immune-boosting efficacy. Moreover, the optimized batch displayed superior in-vivo bioavailability, attaining a peak plasma concentration at 1 hour (88.47 ng/ml).The successful development of herbal granules amalgamating lemon peel extract and banana flour underscores their potential to enhance immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. These formulations exhibit commendable attributes of quality, consistency, and stability, promising substantial benefits in augmenting immune response.