Solid γ-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Compound with Gingerols, a Multi-Component Guest: Preparation, Properties and Application in Yogurt

Gingerols from the rhizome of fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) were obtained by a simple extraction, followed by purification. The gingerols extract was composed of 6-gingerol (54%), 8-gingerol (20%), and 10-gingerol (26%). It was included into gamma-cyclodextrin by classic co-dissolution procedures. Solid-state characterisation of gamma-cyclodextrin center dot gingerols shows that this inclusion compound features 1:1 host-to-guest stoichiometry and that it is a microcrystalline powder with a crystalline cell that belongs to the tetragonal space group 42(1)2, having the host molecules stacked in infinite channels where the gingerols are accommodated. In chimico studies with ABTS(center dot+) scavenging, NO center dot scavenging, beta-carotene peroxidation, and 5-LOX inhibition show that gamma-cyclodextrin is a suitable carrier for gingerols, because it does not alter their reactivity towards these substances. Yogurt was tested as a matrix for the incorporation of gingerols and gamma-cyclodextrin center dot gingerols into foodstuff. The colour of the fortified yogurt suffered little alterations. In the case of yogurt with the inclusion compound, gamma-cyclodextrin center dot gingerols, as fortificant, these alterations were not perceptible to the naked eye. Moreover, yogurt with gamma-cyclodextrin center dot gingerols showed a good antioxidant activity, thus being suitable for use in nutraceutical applications.