Performance evaluation of Bacopa monneri-loaded ethosomes for topical delivery

Bacopa monnieri is a plant with a rich history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, spanning several centuries. It is also referred to as Brahmi in some regions. This product serves as a treatment for various skin conditions, such as inflammation and wound healing. Its properties also aid in the production of collagen and improve circulation. The inclusion of antioxidants enhances your skin's overall health, resulting in a rejuvenated and vibrant appearance. The present study aimed to prepare a nano-lipoidal system loaded with Bacopa monnieri (BM) extract and its characterization. Twelve formulations (F1-12) were developed using the ether injection method using different ratios of BM extract, L-alpha phosphatidylcholine (SPC), ethanol, and water. Bacoside A was used as a marker compound for estimation purposes. BM extract-loaded ethosomes were characterized in which formulation F-5 showed the highest entrapment efficiency of 89 %, with vesicle size 188 nm, while the zeta potential was -29.19 mV, and the polydispersity index (PDI) was  0.221±1.45. In vitro extract release using a dialysis membrane was performed for 12 hours, and it was found to be 44 % and 61 % at the end of 8 and 12 hours. The formulation followed zero-order non-Fickian diffusion kinetics, which is best for transdermal formulations. The goat skin was used for Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) study which showed the fluorescence intensity of Rhodamine B entrapped in those was 16.783, while it was 8.580 in the blank hydroethanolic solution, which confirmed the penetration of the ethosomal systems up to 30-40 µm deeper into the skin which gives a possibility that ethosomes can contribute in collagen synthesis and decrease the degradation of elastin in the deeper layers.