Sunflower Lecithin-based Liposomal Formulations of Sesbania grandiflora and Acerola cherry Extracts: Enhancing Stability and Controlled Release

Abstract

Background: Despite the potential of cosmeceuticals, challenges like poor solubility, bioavailability, and stability limit their full effectiveness. Liposomal delivery systems have shown promise in overcoming these challenges by improving the stability and controlled release of active compounds. Methodology: This study investigates the liposomal encapsulation using sunflower lecithin and gum acacia of Sesbania grandiflora and Acerola cherry extracts, characterization using SEM-EDX and studies dissolution profiles. Results and Discussion: Both S. grandiflora and A. cherry liposomes exhibited smoother surfaces compared to their respective extracts. This indicates that the encapsulation process, involving sunflower lecithin and gum acacia, resulted in the formation of a liposomal cavity encapsulating the extract that altered the surface texture. The average size of S. grandiflora extract and its liposomes was found to be 15.64 µm and 18.032 µm respectively. Similarly, the average size estimated from SEM imaging for A. cherry extract was found to be 14.916 µm versus 15.079 µm for its liposomal counterpart. The EDX patter showed increase phosphorus, potassium, and calcium elements in the liposomal extracts. Dissolution studies revealed that the S. grandiflora liposomes showed a sustained release (98% at 120 mins) pattern for biotin as to the neat extract (100% at 60 mins) or synthetic capsule (100% at 15 mins).Similar data was observed for Vitamin C release from liposomal, neat A. cherry extract, and vitamin C synthetic capsules. Conclusion:  These results highlight that sunflower lecithin-based liposomes can improve stability and provide controlled release of plant bioactive for better bioactivity. This offers a promising strategy for advanced nutraceutical and cosmeceutical formulations. Graphical Abstract