Formulation and Characterization of SNEDDS of Pandanus tectorius Fruit Extract and in vitro Antioxidant Activity

Abstract

Excess reactive oxygen species can cause oxidative stress and lead to the progression of cardiovascular diseases. Pandanus tectorius fruit (PTF) is a promising source of herbal medicine with antioxidant activity. However, the oral administration is hindered due to the semi-polar properties of the extract. The solubility of the extract can be potentially improved through synthesis of a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS). This study aims to formulate nanoemulsion of the extract by means of self-nanoemulsification approach using caprylic triglycerides, kolliphor RH40, and propylene glycol. It was found that when tested in water, simulated gastric, and intestinal fluid, PTF-SNEDDS had emulsification times of 38.17, 49.44, and 45.29 sec, indicating grade A formulation. The clarity level of PTF-SNEDDS, particle size, and zeta potential was at 99.3%, 41.5 ± 1.1 nm, and -25.9 mV. The antioxidant activity of PTF-SNEDDS was 1.6 times higher than PTF extracts. It can be concluded that PTF extract can be formulated into SNEDDS and stable in gastrointestinal conditions.