Nanoemulsification Improves the Pharmaceutical Properties and Bioactivities of Niaouli Essential Oil (Melaleuca quinquenervia L.)

We develop a suitable delivery system for niaouli essential oil (NEO) using a nanoemulsification method for acne vulgaris. Prepared nanoemulsions (NEs) were characterized for droplet dimension, rheology, surface charge, and stability. The ability of NEO formulations against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis was investigated and all formulations showed antiacne potential in vitro. Ex vivo permeation studies indicated significant improvement in drug permeations and steady state flux of all NEO-NEs compared to the neat NEO (p < 0.05). On the basis of the studied pharmaceutical parameters, enhanced ex vivo skin permeation, and marked effect on acne pathogens, formulation NEO-NE4 was found to be the best (oil (NEO; 10% v/v); Kolliphor EL (9.25% v/v), Carbitol (27.75% v/v), and water (53% v/v)). Concisely, the in vitro and ex vivo results revealed that nanoemulsification improved the delivery as well as bioactivities of NEO significantly.

Automated summary

The developed delivery system for niaouli essential oil (NEO) using a nanoemulsification method shows potential for treating acne vulgaris. The nanoemulsions (NEs) demonstrated improved drug permeation and bioactivity compared to the neat NEO, with formulation NEO-NE4 being identified as the most effective based on pharmaceutical parameters and skin permeation studies. Overall, nanoemulsification significantly enhanced the delivery and effectiveness of NEO in vitro and ex vivo.