Synthesis and Characterization of Murraya koenigii Linn Formulation for Potential Topical Application

Murraya koenigii Linn leaf (curry leaf) is a favored spice known for its medicinal, therapeutic, nutraceutical and cosmetic properties. Its oil formulations have emerged as a favorable base for controlled delivery of actives by topical route of administration. However, most of such formulations include several synthetic chemicals as emulsifiers and stabilizers that may be hazardous in the long run. In the present study, curry leaf oil formulation with an alkyl polyglucoside emulsifier has been formulated for potential dermatological applications. Ultrasonication was employed for reduced particle size and better efficiency. The formulation was characterized for mean particle size, polydispersity index zeta potential and electrophoretic mobility. FTIR analysis of the oil confirmed the presence of the functional groups of its constituents as identified by GC-MS and revealed the prevalence of extensive hydrogen bonding in the formulation. Its SEM image showed the structural topography. The viability of different concentrations of the oil, tested on dermal fibroblasts cells (3T3 cell lines), was found to be from 97% to 20%. The accelerated stability tests confirmed the formulation’s non-susceptibility to various destabilization mechanisms after a period of 180 days at 37 °C, or under low speed centrifugation. Furthermore, the formulation was stable when stored at 40 °C, 4 °C and −18 °C for 3 cycles. Thus, this bio based formulation can either be used as such or as a base matrix for loading active ingredients for topical delivery.