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Pharmaceutics
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Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products
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Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Physical Pharmacy and Formulation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 March 2022) | Viewed by 53456

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Aurica P. Chiriac

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Guest Editor
“Petru Poni” Macromolecular Chemistry Institute, Grigore Ghica Voda Alley 41A, 700487 Iasi, Romania
Interests: polymers synthesis, including by nonconventional methods; chemical modifications; hydrogels; polymeric matrices for bioapplications; nanoparticles; nanotechnology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Alina Gabriela Rusu

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Co-Guest Editor
"Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
Interests: hydrogels; modified polysaccharides; nanogels; drug delivery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Héctor Iván Meléndez Ortíz

E-Mail Website
Co-Guest Editor
Center for Research in Applied Chemistry, Blvd. Enrique Reyna Hermosillo 140, Saltillo 25294, Mexico
Interests: nanodevices; nanoparticles; hydrogels; drug delivery; anticancer agents delivery; antibiotic delivery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The importance of using essential oils (EOs) in various fields not only derives from the need to sustain bio-based compounds and decrease the dependence on and replace synthetic products with others of natural origin; it is especially due to the fact that these products have been tested and their effect and efficacy have been confirmed in medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, biology, agronomy, etc., with evidence from the oldest times. At present, the growing interest in the use of these compounds is a result of the new and multiple possibilities to protect these structures from external factors (e.g., light, oxygen, temperature) offered by both the innovative matrices created but also by the new incorporation techniques that can further ensure the manifestation of EOs’ biochemical and pharmacological activities. Finally, we must mention the increased capacity to characterize the products that include EOs, and to evaluate the activity and nature of their properties resulting from the presence of EOs in their composition. In this context, the aim of this Special Issue on “Essential Oils in Formulations for Specific Therapies and Products” is to gather papers addressing state-of-the-art trends, future directions, and challenges in the development of formulations based on essential oils, their carriers, and their applicability and uses in various fields due to the chemical composition of the essential oils and correlated effects. Original research papers, communications, review articles, and opinions are welcome.

Dr. Aurica P. Chiriac
Dr. Alina Gabriela Rusu
Dr. Héctor Iván Meléndez Ortíz
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmaceutics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • EOs as active chemicals
  • EOs’ biological activity (antimicrobial, insecticidal, herbicidal, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties)
  • EOs encapsulation procedures
  • EOs for improving human health
  • EOs in active packaging products
  • polymeric networks for EOs encapsulation.

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 2929 KiB  
Article
Trans-Anethole Alleviates Trimethyltin Chloride-Induced Impairments in Long-Term Potentiation
by Wonseok Chang, Jihua An, Geun Hee Seol, Seung Ho Han, Jaeyong Yee and Sun Seek Min
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(7), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14071422 - 06 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1666
Abstract
Trans-anethole is an aromatic compound that has been studied for its anti-inflammation, anticonvulsant, antinociceptive, and anticancer effects. A recent report found that trans-anethole exerted neuroprotective effects on the brain via multiple pathways. Since noxious stimuli may both induce neuronal cell injury [...] Read more.
Trans-anethole is an aromatic compound that has been studied for its anti-inflammation, anticonvulsant, antinociceptive, and anticancer effects. A recent report found that trans-anethole exerted neuroprotective effects on the brain via multiple pathways. Since noxious stimuli may both induce neuronal cell injury and affect synaptic functions (e.g., synaptic transmission or plasticity), it is important to understand whether the neuroprotective effect of trans-anethole extends to synaptic plasticity. Here, the effects of trimethyltin (TMT), which is a neurotoxic organotin compound, was investigated using the field recording method on hippocampal slice of mice. The influence of trans-anethole on long-term potentiation (LTP) was also studied for both NMDA receptor-dependent and NMDA receptor–independent cases. The action of trans-anethole on TMT-induced LTP impairment was examined, too. These results revealed that trans-anethole enhances NMDA receptor-dependent and -independent LTP and alleviates TMT-induced LTP impairment. These results suggest that trans-anethole modulates hippocampal LTP induction, prompting us to speculate that it may be helpful for improving cognitive impairment arising from neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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17 pages, 3392 KiB  
Article
Development of Tea Seed Oil Nanostructured Lipid Carriers and In Vitro Studies on Their Applications in Inducing Human Hair Growth
by Pornthida Riangjanapatee, Mattaka Khongkow, Alongkot Treetong, Onuma Unger, Chutikorn Phungbun, Supatchaya Jaemsai, Chatchaya Bootsiri and Siriporn Okonogi
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14050984 - 04 May 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2441
Abstract
Synthetic drugs used to treat hair loss cause many side-effects. Natural tea seed oil possesses many activities that can suppress hair loss. However, it is oily and sticky in direct application. In this study, tea seed oil loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) using [...] Read more.
Synthetic drugs used to treat hair loss cause many side-effects. Natural tea seed oil possesses many activities that can suppress hair loss. However, it is oily and sticky in direct application. In this study, tea seed oil loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) using Tween 80 (NLC-T), Varisoft 442 (NLC-V), and a combination of both surfactants (NLC-C) was developed. The obtained nanoformulations showed spherical particles in the size range 130–430 nm. Particle size and size distribution of NLC-C and NLC-T after storage at 4, 25, and 40 °C for 90 days were unchanged, indicating their excellent stability. The pH of NLC-T, NLC-V, and NLC-C throughout 90 days remained at 3, 4, and 3.7, respectively. NLC-C showed significantly greater nontoxicity and growth-stimulating effect on human follicle dermal papilla (HFDP) cells than the intact oil. NLC-T and NLC-V could not stimulate cell growth and showed high cytotoxicity. NLC-C showed melting point at 52 ± 0.02 °C and its entrapment efficiency was 96.26 ± 2.26%. The prepared hair serum containing NLC-C showed better spreading throughout the formulation than that containing the intact oil. Using 5% NLC-C showed a 78.8% reduction in firmness of the hair serum while enhancing diffusion efficiency by reducing shear forces up to 81.4%. In conclusion, the developed NLC-C of tea seed oil is an effective alternative in stimulating hair growth. Hair serum containing NLC-C obviously reduces sticky, oily, and greasy feeling after use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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13 pages, 1961 KiB  
Article
Essential Oils of Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis and Gardenia jasminoides f. longicarpa Z.W. Xie & M. Okada Flowers: Chemical Characterization and Assessment of Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Alveolar Macrophage
by Nan Zhang, Ying Bian and Lei Yao
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14050966 - 29 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3102
Abstract
Alveolar macrophage is the predominant cell type in the lung and is thought to be the major target for anti-inflammatory therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aromatherapy using natural essential oils with anti-inflammatory effects for inhalable administration is a potential complementary and [...] Read more.
Alveolar macrophage is the predominant cell type in the lung and is thought to be the major target for anti-inflammatory therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aromatherapy using natural essential oils with anti-inflammatory effects for inhalable administration is a potential complementary and alternative therapy for COPD treatment. The Gardenia jasminoides flower is famous for its fragrance in East Asia and is used for treating colds and lung problems in folk medicine. Therefore, in the present study, flower essential oils from two main medicinal gardenia varieties (G. jasminoides J. Ellis and G. jasminoides f. longicarpa Z.W. Xie & M. Okada) were extracted by hydro-distillation, and their chemical components were analyzed by GC-MS. The anti-inflammatory effects of the two essential oils and their main ingredients were further studied on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced models in murine alveolar macrophages (MH-S). The results indicated that the chemical constituents of the two gardenia varieties were quite different. Alcohol accounted for 53.8% of the G. jasminoides essential oil, followed by terpenes (16.01%). Terpenes accounted for 34.32% of the G. jasminoides f. longicarpa essential oil, followed by alcohols (19.6%) and esters (13.85%). Both the two gardenia essential oils inhibited the LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) release and reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the MH-S cells. Linalool and α-farnesene dose-dependently reduced the NO release in the MH-S cells. Linalool and α-farnesene did not affect the PGE2 production but regulated the expression of TNF- α. In addition to linalool and α-farnesene, other components in the gardenia flower essential oils appeared to be able to act as anti-inflammatory agents and influence the PGE2 pathway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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19 pages, 3976 KiB  
Article
Impact of Fixed Oil on Ostwald Ripening of Anti-Oral Cancer Nanoemulsions Loaded with Amomum kravanh Essential Oil
by Yotsanan Weerapol, Suwisit Manmuan, Nattaya Chaothanaphat, Siriporn Okonogi, Chutima Limmatvapirat, Sontaya Limmatvapirat and Sukannika Tubtimsri
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14050938 - 26 Apr 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1929
Abstract
Recently, essential oil from Amomum kravanh (AMO) was reported to exert anti-oral cancer effects. Although it was more effective after being loaded into nanoemulsions, AMO without an Ostwald ripening inhibitor was unable to form stable nanoemulsions because of the Ostwald ripening phenomenon. In [...] Read more.
Recently, essential oil from Amomum kravanh (AMO) was reported to exert anti-oral cancer effects. Although it was more effective after being loaded into nanoemulsions, AMO without an Ostwald ripening inhibitor was unable to form stable nanoemulsions because of the Ostwald ripening phenomenon. In this study, we examined the influence of Ostwald ripening inhibitors, such as fixed oils and polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000), on nanoemulsion properties prepared by a phase inversion temperature method. Several fixed oils, including virgin coconut oil (VCO), palm oil (PMO), olive oil (OLO), and PEG 4000, were evaluated, and their Ostwald ripening inhibitory effects were compared. The results suggest that the type and ratio of AMO:fixed oils influence the formation and characteristics of nanoemulsions. PEG 4000 was unable to produce nanoemulsions; however, stable nanoemulsions with small droplet sizes were observed in preparations containing OLO and VCO at an AMO:fixed oil ratio of 80:20, which may be the result of specific molecular interactions among the components. Using an MTT assay, we demonstrated that the AMO:OLO (80:20) nanoemulsion produced the most significant cytotoxic effect on oral cancer cells with a percentage of 99.68 ± 0.56%. Furthermore, the AMO:OLO 80:20 nanoemulsion inhibits metastasis and induces oral cancer cell death through the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. In conclusion, AMO nanoemulsion with anti-oral cancer activity was successfully produced by varying the amount and type of fixed oils. In the future, this discovery may lead to the development of stable nanoemulsions employing additional volatile oils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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13 pages, 3313 KiB  
Article
Elucidating Pathway and Anesthetic Mechanism of Action of Clove Oil Nanoformulations in Fish
by Kantaporn Kheawfu, Surachai Pikulkaew, Petrine Wellendorph, Louise von Gersdorff Jørgensen, Thomas Rades, Anette Müllertz and Siriporn Okonogi
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14050919 - 22 Apr 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2543
Abstract
Clove oil (CO), an essential oil of Syzygium aromaticum, has been reported as an anesthetic for many fish species. However, its insoluble properties require a suitable delivery system for its application. In the present study, nanoformulations of CO as a nanoemulsion (CO-NE), [...] Read more.
Clove oil (CO), an essential oil of Syzygium aromaticum, has been reported as an anesthetic for many fish species. However, its insoluble properties require a suitable delivery system for its application. In the present study, nanoformulations of CO as a nanoemulsion (CO-NE), a self-microemulsifying drug-delivery system (CO-SMEDDS), and a self-nanoemulsifying drug-delivery system (CO-SNEDDS) were prepared for delivering CO. Zebrafish were used as a fish model to investigate oil pathways. The result shows fluorescence spots of fluorescence-labeled CO accumulate on the gills, skin, and brain. All CO nanoformulations significantly increased penetration flux compared to CO ethanolic solution. Investigation of the anesthetic mechanism of action using a rat brain γ-aminobutyric acid subtype A (GABAA) receptor-binding test demonstrates that CO and its major compound, eugenol, modulate [3H]muscimol binding. CO-NE exhibited a concentration-dependent binding activity with an EC50 value of 175 µg/mL, significantly higher than CO solution in dimethyl sulfoxide. In conclusion, CO enters the fish through the skin and gills. The anesthetic mechanism of action of CO is based on modulation of [3H] muscimol binding to GABAA receptors. Among three nanoformulations tested, CO-NE is the most effective at increasing permeability and enhancing the receptor-binding activity of the oil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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16 pages, 2384 KiB  
Article
Polymeric Nanocapsules Containing Fennel Essential Oil: Their Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, Stability over Time and in Simulated Gastrointestinal Conditions
by Giuseppe Granata, Carla Riccobene, Edoardo Napoli and Corrada Geraci
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(4), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14040873 - 16 Apr 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2752
Abstract
Plant essential oils, a source of biologically active compounds, represent a promising segment in the pharmaceutical market. However, their volatility, hydrophobicity, poor stability, and low toxicity limit direct use in pharmaceutical-related applications. Nanoencapsulation is a technique that allows overcoming these obstacles by improving [...] Read more.
Plant essential oils, a source of biologically active compounds, represent a promising segment in the pharmaceutical market. However, their volatility, hydrophobicity, poor stability, and low toxicity limit direct use in pharmaceutical-related applications. Nanoencapsulation is a technique that allows overcoming these obstacles by improving bioaccessibility and bioavailability. Nanocapsules (NCs) based on biodegradable and biocompatible poly(ɛ-caprolactone) containing Foeniculum vulgare Mill. essential oil (FEO), known for its biological activities, were successfully prepared by interfacial deposition of the preformed polymer method. The composition of FEO (trans-anethole chemotype) was determined by gas chromatography analyses. The FEO presence inside the NCs was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. The FEO-NCs showed nanometer size (210 nm), low polydispersity index (0.10), negative zeta potential (−15 mV), non-Newtonian rheological behavior, and high efficiency of encapsulation (93%). Moreover, parameters such as FEO-NC particle size, bioactive compound retention, and FEO composition were monitored for 30 days at storage temperatures of 4 and 40 °C, confirming the robustness of the nanosystem. Finally, FEO-NCs were resistant to the simulated gastric digestion and showed an effective bioaccessibility of 29% in simulated intestinal digestion. Based on the results obtained, this FEO-NC nanosystem could find interesting applications in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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9 pages, 1450 KiB  
Article
Antispasmodic Effect of Bergamot Essential Oil on Rat Isolated Gut Tissues
by Laura Rombolà, Marilisa Straface, Damiana Scuteri, Tsukasa Sakurada, Shinobu Sakurada, Maria Tiziana Corasaniti, Giacinto Bagetta and Luigi Antonio Morrone
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(4), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14040775 - 02 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3770
Abstract
Preclinical data indicate that bergamot essential oil (BEO) can modulate the synaptic functions within the central nervous system (CNS). Particularly, several data shows that essential oil is endowed with reproducible analgesic and anxiolytic effects that may derived from the ability to modulate the [...] Read more.
Preclinical data indicate that bergamot essential oil (BEO) can modulate the synaptic functions within the central nervous system (CNS). Particularly, several data shows that essential oil is endowed with reproducible analgesic and anxiolytic effects that may derived from the ability to modulate the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the CNS. Although there are differences in the functional complexity of the enteric nervous system (ENS), it is likely that the phytocomplex has biological properties in gut superimposable to those showed in the CNS. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate ex-vivo the effect of bergamot essential oil and its main constituents on the contractile activity of rat isolated colon, jejunum and ileum induced by different muscle stimulants such as acetylcholine (10−6 M) and potassium chloride (80 mM). Our present data demonstrate that BEO inhibits cholinergically- and non cholinergically-mediated contractions in rat isolated gut and that linalool is the most active component. These results suggest that the phytocomplex might be useful in the treatment of spastic disorders in ENS mainly characterized by the presence of pain; incidentally, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a painful condition in which a role for neurotransmitter dysfunction has been envisaged. More investigation is required for clinical translation of the present data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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10 pages, 3153 KiB  
Article
Preclinical Characterization of Antinociceptive Effect of Bergamot Essential Oil and of Its Fractions for Rational Translation in Complementary Therapy
by Damiana Scuteri, Laura Rombolà, Michele Crudo, Chizuko Watanabe, Hirokazu Mizoguchi, Shinobu Sakurada, Kengo Hamamura, Tsukasa Sakurada, Paolo Tonin, Maria Tiziana Corasaniti and Giacinto Bagetta
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020312 - 28 Jan 2022
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2380
Abstract
Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is endowed with consistent and reproducible antinociceptive and anti-allodynic properties when administered via an inhalation route. However, the effects of its main constituents and of its decolored (DEC) and deterpenated (DET) fractions, which are enriched in limonene or in [...] Read more.
Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is endowed with consistent and reproducible antinociceptive and anti-allodynic properties when administered via an inhalation route. However, the effects of its main constituents and of its decolored (DEC) and deterpenated (DET) fractions, which are enriched in limonene or in linalool and linalyl acetate, respectively, on spontaneous motor activity related to anxiety and on formalin-induced licking/biting biphasic behavior have never been investigated before. Therefore, the present research aims to characterize the role of BEO components on an experimental pain model that is relevant to clinical translation. Under our present experimental conditions, a paper filter disc soaked with different volumes of the phytocomplex and of its fractions that was applied at the edge of the observation chamber allowed the effects on the spontaneous motor activity and on the formalin-induced nocifensive response in ddY-strain mice to be studied. The present research demonstrated the effects of the DEC fraction of BEO on motor activity and on formalin-induced licking/biting behavior for the first time, proving that limonene is implicated in reduced motor activity and that it is important for the analgesic effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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25 pages, 3368 KiB  
Article
Inhibition of Escherichia Virus MS2, Surrogate of SARS-CoV-2, via Essential Oils-Loaded Electrospun Fibrous Mats: Increasing the Multifunctionality of Antivirus Protection Masks
by Joana M. Domingues, Marta O. Teixeira, Marta A. Teixeira, David Freitas, Samira F. da Silva, Shafagh D. Tohidi, Rui D. V. Fernandes, Jorge Padrão, Andrea Zille, Carla Silva, Joana C. Antunes and Helena P. Felgueiras
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(2), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14020303 - 27 Jan 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3754
Abstract
One of the most important measures implemented to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission has been the use of face masks. Yet, most mask options available in the market display a passive action against the virus, not actively compromising its viability. Here, we propose to overcome [...] Read more.
One of the most important measures implemented to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission has been the use of face masks. Yet, most mask options available in the market display a passive action against the virus, not actively compromising its viability. Here, we propose to overcome this limitation by incorporating antiviral essential oils (EOs) within polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun fibrous mats to be used as intermediate layers in individual protection masks. Twenty EOs selected based on their antimicrobial nature were examined for the first time against the Escherichia coli MS2 virus (potential surrogate of SARS-CoV-2). The most effective were the lemongrass (LGO), Niaouli (NO) and eucalyptus (ELO) with a virucidal concentration (VC) of 356.0, 365.2 and 586.0 mg/mL, respectively. PCL was processed via electrospinning, generating uniform, beadless fibrous mats. EOs loading was accomplished via two ways: (1) physisorption on pre-existing mats (PCLaEOs), and (2) EOs blending with the polymer solution prior to fiber electrospinning (PCLbEOs). In both cases, 10% v/v VC was used as loading concentration, so the mats’ stickiness and overwhelming smell could be prevented. The EOs presence and release from the mats were confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy (≈5257–631 µg) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry evaluations (average of ≈14.3% EOs release over 4 h), respectively. PCLbEOs mats were considered the more mechanically and thermally resilient, with LGO promoting the strongest bonds with PCL (PCLbLGO). On the other hand, PCLaNO and PCLaELO were deemed the least cohesive combinations. Mats modified with the EOs were all identified as superhydrophobic, capable of preventing droplet penetration. Air and water-vapor permeabilities were affected by the mats’ porosity (PCL < PCLaEOs < PCLbEOs), exhibiting a similar tendency of increasing with the increase of porosity. Antimicrobial testing revealed the mats’ ability to retain the virus (preventing infiltration) and to inhibit its action (log reduction averaging 1). The most effective combination against the MS2 viral particles was the PCLbLGO. These mats’ scent was also regarded as the most pleasant during sensory evaluation. Overall, data demonstrated the potential of these EOs-loaded PCL fibrous mats to work as COVID-19 active barriers for individual protection masks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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18 pages, 2458 KiB  
Article
Bioactive Collagen Hydrolysate-Chitosan/Essential Oil Electrospun Nanofibers Designed for Medical Wound Dressings
by Maria Râpă, Carmen Gaidau, Liliana Mititelu-Tartau, Mariana-Daniela Berechet, Andrei Constantin Berbecaru, Irina Rosca, Aurica P. Chiriac, Ecaterina Matei, Andra-Mihaela Predescu and Cristian Predescu
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(11), 1939; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics13111939 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3108
Abstract
In this study, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oils (EOs) were encapsulated into collagen hydrolysates extracted from bovine tendons and rabbit skins, both mixed with chitosan (CS) by using the coaxial electrospinning technique for potential [...] Read more.
In this study, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oils (EOs) were encapsulated into collagen hydrolysates extracted from bovine tendons and rabbit skins, both mixed with chitosan (CS) by using the coaxial electrospinning technique for potential wound dressing applications. The morphology and chemical composition of the electrospun nanofibers were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The antimicrobial activity of the dill EO and lemon EO, as well as the electrospun samples loaded with essential oils was determined by disk diffusion assay against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028 bacterial strains; Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and Candida glabrata ATCC 90028 yeast strains; and Aspergillus brasiliensis ATCC 9642 fungal strain. In vivo biocompatibility testing of the collagen hydrolysate-chitosan/essential oil electrospun nanofibers was based on the determination of the hematological, biochemical, and immunological profile and the evaluation of the influence produced on the oxidative stress in white Swiss mice. The synergetic effect of dill and lemon balm EOs can improve the antimicrobial activity of collagen hydrolysate-chitosan nanofibers against the most important bacterial strains. The in vivo test results suggested a good biocompatibility of electrospun samples based on collagen hydrolysate extracted from bovine tendons or rabbit skin mixed with chitosan and containing dill and/or lemon balm essential oils as encapsulated bioactive compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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24 pages, 6818 KiB  
Article
Biodegradable Alginate Films with ZnO Nanoparticles and Citronella Essential Oil—A Novel Antimicrobial Structure
by Ludmila Motelica, Denisa Ficai, Ovidiu Oprea, Anton Ficai, Roxana-Doina Trusca, Ecaterina Andronescu and Alina Maria Holban
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(7), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics13071020 - 03 Jul 2021
Cited by 84 | Viewed by 5538
Abstract
The petroleum-based materials could be replaced, at least partially, by biodegradable packaging. Adding antimicrobial activity to the new packaging materials can also help improve the shelf life of food and diminish the spoilage. The objective of this research was to obtain a novel [...] Read more.
The petroleum-based materials could be replaced, at least partially, by biodegradable packaging. Adding antimicrobial activity to the new packaging materials can also help improve the shelf life of food and diminish the spoilage. The objective of this research was to obtain a novel antibacterial packaging, based on alginate as biodegradable polymer. The antibacterial activity was induced to the alginate films by adding various amounts of ZnO nanoparticles loaded with citronella (lemongrass) essential oil (CEO). The obtained films were characterized, and antibacterial activity was tested against two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhi) and two Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) bacterial strains. The results suggest the existence of synergy between antibacterial activities of ZnO and CEO against all tested bacterial strains. The obtained films have a good antibacterial coverage, being efficient against several pathogens, the best results being obtained against Bacillus cereus. In addition, the films presented better UV light barrier properties and lower water vapor permeability (WVP) when compared with a simple alginate film. The preliminary tests indicate that the alginate films with ZnO nanoparticles and CEO can be used to successfully preserve the cheese. Therefore, our research evidences the feasibility of using alginate/ZnO/CEO films as antibacterial packaging for cheese in order to extend its shelf life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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24 pages, 5657 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Poly(Ethylene Brassylate-Co-squaric Acid) as Potential Essential Oil Carrier
by Aurica P. Chiriac, Alina Gabriela Rusu, Loredana Elena Nita, Ana-Maria Macsim, Nita Tudorachi, Irina Rosca, Iuliana Stoica, Daniel Tampu, Magdalena Aflori and Florica Doroftei
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(4), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics13040477 - 01 Apr 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2701
Abstract
Bio-based compounds are a leading direction in the context of the increased demand for these materials due to the numerous advantages associated with their use over conventional materials, which hardly degrade in the environment. At the same time, the use of essential oils [...] Read more.
Bio-based compounds are a leading direction in the context of the increased demand for these materials due to the numerous advantages associated with their use over conventional materials, which hardly degrade in the environment. At the same time, the use of essential oils and their components is generated mainly by finding alternative solutions to antibiotics and synthetic preservatives due to their bioactive characteristics, but also to their synergistic capacity during the manifestation of different biological properties. The present study is devoted to poly(ethylene brassylate-co-squaric acid) (PEBSA), synthesis and its use for thymol encapsulation and antibacterial system formation. The synthesized copolymer, performed through ethylene brassylate macrolactone ring-opening and copolymerization with squaric acid, was physicochemical characterized. Its amphiphilic character allowed the entrapment of thymol (Ty), a natural monoterpenoid phenol found in oil of thyme, a compound with strong antiseptic properties. The copolymer chemical structure was confirmed by spectroscopic analyses. Thermal analysis evidenced a good thermal stability for the copolymer. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of PEBSA_Ty complex was investigated against eight different reference strains namely: bacterial strains—Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923, Escherichia coli ATCC25922, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Klebsiella pneumonie ATCC 10031 and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028, yeast strains represented by Candida albicans ATCC10231 and Candida glabrata ATCC 2001, and the fungal strain Aspergillus brasiliensis ATCC9642. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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Review

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16 pages, 765 KiB  
Review
Plant Nanovesicles for Essential Oil Delivery
by Mónica Zuzarte, Carla Vitorino, Lígia Salgueiro and Henrique Girão
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(12), 2581; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14122581 - 24 Nov 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1922
Abstract
Essential oils’ therapeutic potential is highly recognized, with many applications rising due to reported anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-aging, and anti-cancer effects. Nevertheless, clinical translation still remains a challenge, mainly due to essential oils’ volatility and low water solubility and stability. The present review [...] Read more.
Essential oils’ therapeutic potential is highly recognized, with many applications rising due to reported anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-aging, and anti-cancer effects. Nevertheless, clinical translation still remains a challenge, mainly due to essential oils’ volatility and low water solubility and stability. The present review gathers relevant information and postulates on the potential application of plant nanovesicles to effectively deliver essential oils to target organs. Indeed, plant nanovesicles are emerging as alternatives to mammalian vesicles and synthetic carriers due to their safety, stability, non-toxicity, and low immunogenicity. Moreover, they can be produced on a large scale from various plant parts, enabling an easier, more rapid, and less costly industrial application that could add value to waste products and boost the circular economy. Importantly, the use of plant nanovesicles as delivery platforms could increase essential oils’ bioavailability and improve chemical stability while reducing volatility and toxicity issues. Additionally, using targeting strategies, essential oils’ selectivity, drug delivery, and efficacy could be improved, ultimately leading to dose reduction and patient compliance. Bearing this in mind, information on current pharmaceutical technologies available to enable distinct routes of administration of loaded vesicles is also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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31 pages, 4203 KiB  
Review
Polymeric Carriers Designed for Encapsulation of Essential Oils with Biological Activity
by Aurica P. Chiriac, Alina G. Rusu, Loredana E. Nita, Vlad M. Chiriac, Iordana Neamtu and Alina Sandu
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(5), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics13050631 - 28 Apr 2021
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4841
Abstract
The article reviews the possibilities of encapsulating essential oils EOs, due to their multiple benefits, controlled release, and in order to protect them from environmental conditions. Thus, we present the natural polymers and the synthetic macromolecular chains that are commonly used as networks [...] Read more.
The article reviews the possibilities of encapsulating essential oils EOs, due to their multiple benefits, controlled release, and in order to protect them from environmental conditions. Thus, we present the natural polymers and the synthetic macromolecular chains that are commonly used as networks for embedding EOs, owing to their biodegradability and biocompatibility, interdependent encapsulation methods, and potential applicability of bioactive blend structures. The possibilities of using artificial intelligence to evaluate the bioactivity of EOs—in direct correlation with their chemical constitutions and structures, in order to avoid complex laboratory analyses, to save money and time, and to enhance the final consistency of the products—are also presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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35 pages, 16751 KiB  
Review
Essential Oils: Pharmaceutical Applications and Encapsulation Strategies into Lipid-Based Delivery Systems
by Cinzia Cimino, Oriana Maria Maurel, Teresa Musumeci, Angela Bonaccorso, Filippo Drago, Eliana Maria Barbosa Souto, Rosario Pignatello and Claudia Carbone
Pharmaceutics 2021, 13(3), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics13030327 - 03 Mar 2021
Cited by 104 | Viewed by 8697
Abstract
Essential oils are being studied for more than 60 years, but a growing interest has emerged in the recent decades due to a desire for a rediscovery of natural remedies. Essential oils are known for millennia and, already in prehistoric times, they were [...] Read more.
Essential oils are being studied for more than 60 years, but a growing interest has emerged in the recent decades due to a desire for a rediscovery of natural remedies. Essential oils are known for millennia and, already in prehistoric times, they were used for medicinal and ritual purposes due to their therapeutic properties. Using a variety of methods refined over the centuries, essential oils are extracted from plant raw materials: the choice of the extraction method is decisive, since it determines the type, quantity, and stereochemical structure of the essential oil molecules. To these components belong all properties that make essential oils so interesting for pharmaceutical uses; the most investigated ones are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing, and anxiolytic activities. However, the main limitations to their use are their hydrophobicity, instability, high volatility, and risk of toxicity. A successful strategy to overcome these limitations is the encapsulation within delivery systems, which enable the increase of essential oils bioavailability and improve their chemical stability, while reducing their volatility and toxicity. Among all the suitable platforms, our review focused on the lipid-based ones, in particular micro- and nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Essential Oils in Pharmaceutical Products)
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