Design and Characterization of Microcapsule Loading Vernonia amygdalina Leaf Extract: A Phytochemical and Formulation-Based Approach to Antihypertensive Therapy Candidate
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2026.12903Keywords:
African leaf, LC-ESI-MS characterization, Hypertension, Maltodextrin, Microencapsulation, Vernonia amygdalina, African leaf, LC-ESI-MS characterization, Hypertension, Maltodextrin, Microencapsulation, Vernonia amygdalinaAbstract
Vernonia amygdalina has historically been utilized in traditional medicine and is recognized for its bioactive constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, and saponins, which may have antihypertensive properties. This work sought to develop and assess a microencapsulated formulation of V. amygdalina leaf extract to enhance stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy. The extract was procured using ethanol maceration, standardized through organoleptic, physicochemical, and phytochemical evaluations, and subsequently characterized by LC-ESI-MS, which verified flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, quercetin) and phenolic acids as the predominant components. Microencapsulation was executed using spray drying utilizing gum arabic and maltodextrin as encapsulating agents. Four formulations were evaluated, exhibiting entrapment efficiencies from 73.35% to 98.45%, water contents between 3.53% and 5.12%, and yields ranging from 72.40% to 84.35%. Formula 1 (gum arabic:maltodextrin ratio 7:1) exhibited the most advantageous properties, comprising the minimal water content (3.53%), maximal yield (84.35%), and nearly total entrapment efficiency (98.45%). The average particle size was 987.7 nm, with a zeta potential of –54.0 mV, signifying robust colloidal stability. SEM examination verified spherical shape with consistent distribution. The quantitative results indicate that microencapsulation enhanced extract stability and facilitated the regulated release of bioactive components, hence improving delivery performance. In conclusion, the refined formulation of V. amygdalina extract establishes a robust foundation for its advancement as a phytopharmaceutical or nutraceutical candidate for supplementary hypertension treatment, necessitating additional in vivo and clinical assessment.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract has been shown to contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, supporting its potential as an antihypertensive agent.
- The microencapsulation process using a combination of gum arabic and maltodextrin improves the stability of the extract while masking the bitter taste.
- A formula with a 7:1 ratio (gum arabic: maltodextrin) demonstrated the best results, with high yields and entrapment efficiency approaching > 90%.
- Physical and chemical characterization of the microencapsulation formula design demonstrated a stable system worthy of development.
- These findings form the basis for the development of phytopharmaceutical/nutraceutical products for health.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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