Development of essential oils inclusion complexes: a nanotechnology approach with enhanced thermal and light stability

Author(s)

Procopio, Fernanda Ramalho ; Brexo, Ramon Peres ; Vitolano, Luis Eduardo Sousa ; Martins, Maria Eduarda da Mata ; Astolfo, Maria Eduarda de Almeida ; Bogusz Junior, Stanislau ; Ferreira, Marcos David

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: DISCOVER NANO; v. 19, n. 1, p. 15-pg., 2024-12-08.

Abstract

Essential oils (EOs) are volatile compounds that may have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Despite their potential application, low water solubility and chemical instability are limiting factors. Nanoencapsulation processes can overcome this problem, protecting against external factors and promoting a moderate release. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to encapsulate Cymbopogon citratus (CC) and Origanum vulgare (OV) essential oils in beta-cyclodextrin (beta CD) complexes. Different ratios (w/w) between beta CD and EOs (96:4, 92:8, 90:10, 88:12) were tested, seeking greater entrapment efficiency. The particles were characterized by yield, entrapment efficiency, size distribution, morphology, crystallinity, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal behavior. Furthermore, the thermal (70 degrees C) and photochemical (UV) stability of the free and encapsulated EO was evaluated for 48 h. The results showed that the beta CD-CC 90:10 and beta CD-OV 90:10 formulations presented greater entrapment efficiency. Crystalline structures of varying sizes (200 to 800 nm), trapezoidal shape, and tendency to aggregation were obtained. Changes in the beta CD crystalline organization and the suppression of characteristic free oil absorption bands suggest the EO entrapment. Regarding stability results, beta CD-CC remained constant when CC showed losses of 20% (photodegradation) and 60% (thermal degradation) after 48 h of stress exposure. Free OV showed slight variations in absorbance over time, while beta CD-OV remained constant over 24 h (thermal degradation) and maintained 60% of oil over 48 h of photo exposure. Furthermore, OV and CC demonstrate color change over time, while beta CD-OV and beta CD-CC remained constant. The results demonstrate that nanoencapsulation can be an interesting tool for protecting EOs. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/17653-9 - Development of nanoencapsulated natural fungicides for postharvest fruit preservation
• Grantee: Fernanda Ramalho Procopio
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 22/03229-8 - Synthesis, characterization and applications of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES)
• Grantee: Stanislau Bogusz Junior
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Initial Project
• FAPESP's process: 23/14371-2 - Functionalized nanocomposite coatings with encapsulated and non-encapsulated essential oils (EOs).
• Grantee: Ramon Peres Brexó
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Technical Training Program - Technical Training
• FAPESP's process: 22/10686-6 - Application of nanotechnology for the development of new antimicrobial coatings based on plant-based compounds for post-harvest conservation of fruits and vegetables
• Grantee: Marcos David Ferreira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants