Preformulation studies for the development of a microemulsion formulation from Ambrosia peruviana All., with anti-inflammatory effect

Natural products are considered an important source of the therapeutic arsenal currently available. Among these alternatives are the seeds of Ambrosia peruviana (altamisa), whose extract has shown an anti-inflammatory effect. The main objective of this work was to perform a preformulation study of Ambrosia peruviana seeds ethanolic extract, where the main factors that affect the physical, chemical, and pharmacological stability of the extract were evaluated, as well as a compatibility study by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis against different excipients. A dry extract was obtained by rotary evaporation of the seeds macerated with 96% ethanol. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined by measuring its effect on NO production in RAW 264.7 macrophages, stimulated with LPS. The results showed that the dry extract maintained its stability over time when stored at a temperature of 4 and 25 degrees C, demonstrating its biological activity, the content of phenolic compounds, and its physicochemical parameters remain practically invariable. However, when exposed to high temperatures (60 degrees C) it was affected. The thermal analysis revelated that the behavior of most of the selected excipients and the dry extract was maintained, which indicates that it did not present incompatibilities, therefore they can be candidates for formulating a microemulsion.

Automated summary

The ethanolic extract of Ambrosia peruviana seeds has shown stable anti-inflammatory activity. A preformulation study was conducted to evaluate the factors affecting the extract's stability and compatibility with different excipients. The results demonstrated that the dry extract remained stable at 4 and 25 degrees C, with preserved biological activity, phenolic compound content, and physicochemical parameters. However, exposure to high temperatures (60 degrees C) affected the stability. Thermal analysis revealed that most excipients and the dry extract were compatible, making them potential candidates for formulating a microemulsion.