Evaluating the Efficacy and Characterization of Plantago major Extract Microspheres for Novel drug Delivery

Background In the recent years, advancement in novel drug delivery system with new technologies have emerged to deliver plant bioactives and extracts. The delivery system offers enhanced efficacy, better compatibility and enhanced shelf life and stability of the product. The current study aimed to formulate microspheres containing Plantago major extract and its evaluation and characterization. Methods Extract loaded microspheres were prepared using the solvent evaporation technique and were characterized using sophisticated tools like FTIR, DSC, SEM etc. Results Phytochemical screening of PME confirmed presence of compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols etc. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 126 mg GAE/g and 312.54 mg QE/g respectively. LCMS analysis confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds including luteolin, baicalein etc. SEM revealed spherical and porous microspheres and DSC/FTIR confirmed PME-polymer compatibility. Entrapment efficiency ranged from 7.211–19.687% and drug release was negligible in an acidic environment, sustained alkaline media. F1 with low polymer, content release was 64% and F5 with highest polymer, content release was 41% over 12 hours. The release profile of the microspheres involves polymer relaxation and erosion along with drug diffusion Conclusion PME-loaded microspheres show potential for sustained release of contents for inflammation.