AYURVEDA · Colloidal delivery systems for phytochemicals; Ayurveda
FP7 — People (Marie Curie Actions)
- Duration
- 2009-07-01 → 2011-06-30
- EU contribution
- €161,729
- Participants
- 1
- Scheme
- MC-IIF
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Results in brief
Periodic Report Summary - AYURVEDA (Colloidal delivery systems for phytochemicals; Ayurveda)
The objective of this project was to apply principles of colloid science to develop delivery systems of phytochemicals from ayurvedic origin in order to overcome their formulation and delivery challenges. To achieve these objectives, phytochemicals of interest to foods were selected based on the literature survey and internal meetings. Problems associated with these phytochemicals were identified and suitable delivery systems were developed using biopolymers as carrier materials. The delivery systems were then characterised and subjected to in-vitro evaluation. Well known phytochemicals like silibinin and quercetin were formulated as colloidal particles using biopolymers like shellac (resin) and zein (hydrophobic protein) and as carrier materials. Formulation of these actives in colloidal format resulted in enhancement of their water dispersibility, pH stability and photo stability. Due to the properties of carrier materials (pH dependent solubility), delivery systems had added functionalities like controlled release. Colloidal interaction of phytochemical like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) - a green tea polyphenol with polymer (methyl cellulose) was exploited to generate novel microstructures and their applications for the delivery of actives and flavours were demonstrated. Colloidal particles were also generated based on the molecular interactions of three different phytochemicals (polyphenol, alkaloid and saponin) having lipid lowering potential. The three phytochemicals used to generate colloidal particles included tannic acid, berberine and glycyrrhizin. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the principles of colloid science could be successfully applied to fabricate delivery systems based on the specific interactions of various phytochemicals with carrier materials. Results obtained through this project depicts that molecular interactions of phytochemicals could be effectively exploited to develop novel nano / micro structures which could be further used for delivery purposes. This generic approach of developing delivery systems based on the molecular interactions of phytochemicals would be helpful for R&D formulators and researchers working in the field of natural products for foods and pharmaceutical applications. Through this project we have built collaborations with researchers based in Unilever R&D in United States, India and China.
Data: CORDIS, © European Union
Project objective
Ayurveda medicaments composed of herbs or mixtures of herbs is one of the world oldest medical systems. The medicinal value of herbs comes from the natural bioactive molecules collectively known as phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are diverse in nature and they have multiple applications and can be used as a pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmeceutical. Although thousands of phytochemicals have been identified and many of their benefits have already been proven,ayurvedic medications have lagged far behind in becoming a well-accepted medical & health care system. Also, the diverse potentials of ayurvedic actives haven’t been exploited completely by the food and personal care industries. The main reason for this is the challenge involved in formulating phytochemicals into complex product matrixes, which can enable their effective delivery and keep the product stable. Recent advances in colloidal science and technology have introduced modern techniques, which could be applied for designing of effective delivery systems. Thus, the present research will be aimed at applying the principles of colloidal science for structuring and delivery of phytochemicals in different product formats. The particle size, composition, morphology, and surface properties will be controlled through proper fabrication approaches. The behaviour (aggregation,assembly) of these particles will be studied in relation to bioavailability and product stability. Here, for the first time, we will apply an integrated approach where nutritional, formulation, stability, and organoleptic aspects will be considered on the basis of their origin–the physico-chemical and colloidal properties of the individual ingredients. The research will be undertaken to exploit untapped potentials of ayurvedic actives by introducing modern delivery technologies to the world of ayurveda. The outcome of the proposed research will be effectively applicable to various sectors such as pharmaceuticals,foods and consumer care.
Original text from CORDIS.
Participants
- UNILEVER INNOVATION CENTRE WAGENINGEN BV · WageningenCoordinatorNetherlands
Links
Data: CORDIS, © European Union