Comprehensive Research Article: Development and Evaluation of Rutin Herbosomes and Freeze-Dried Granules with Probiotic Synergy for Enhanced Bioavailability and Dissolution

Rutin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, is widely recognized for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular-protective properties. However, its therapeutic potential is significantly limited by poor aqueous solubility, low dissolution rate, and inadequate bioavailability. Commercially available rutin formulations, such as Nature Plus® 500 mg tablets, exhibit rapid disintegration but fail to achieve satisfactory dissolution, releasing less than 50% of the drug within one hour. This study aims to address these limitations through the development of novel rutin herbosomes—a phospholipid-based delivery system—and subsequent conversion into freeze-dried granules for improved stability, flowability, and dissolution performance. In an innovative approach, probiotic-derived excipients were incorporated to enhance gut absorption and provide synergistic nutraceutical benefits. Herbosomes were prepared using rutin and phosphatidylcholine in aprotic solvents, followed by freeze granulation with Eudragit S100 and maltodextrin. Comprehensive evaluation included vesicle characterization, flow properties, dissolution testing, and cytotoxicity assessment. Results demonstrated that herbosomal formulations achieved >90% drug release within 45 minutes, with excellent flow characteristics (Carr’s Index: 8–10; Hausner’s Ratio: 1.1–1.2) and non-toxic profiles. Probiotic enrichment further enhanced dissolution and stability. This study presents a promising, multifunctional strategy for enhancing the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble nutraceuticals.