Development and Characterization of Topical Gels Containing Lipid Nanosystems Loaded with Echinacea purpurea

TL;DR

This study develops a topical gel using lipid nanosystems loaded with Echinacea purpurea extract to improve skin health through enhanced delivery and stability.

Contribution

The novel contribution is the formulation of a Carbopol-based gel containing lipid nanosystems loaded with Echinacea purpurea extract for improved therapeutic efficacy.

Findings

Lipid nanosystems encapsulating Echinacea purpurea extract showed high entrapment efficiency and stability.

The gel formulation demonstrated sustained polyphenol release and favorable textural and pH properties.

The lipid nanosystems exhibited superior biocompatibility and cytoprotective effects compared to free extract.

Abstract

This study explores an innovative delivery strategy for the management of skin conditions: lipid nanosystems incorporated into a gel matrix. Echinacea purpurea extract, known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, was encapsulated into lipid-based nanosystems and subsequently incorporated into Carbopol-based gel. The extract, rich in chicoric and caftaric acids, exhibited strong antioxidant activity (IC50 = 56.9 µg/mL). The resulting nanosystems showed nanometric size (about 200 nm), high entrapment efficiency (63.10–75.15%), and excellent short-term stability. Superior biocompatibility of the nanosystems, compared to the free extract, was demonstrated using an MTS assay on L-929 fibroblasts. Moreover, the cytoprotective potential of the lipid carriers was evident, as pre-treatment significantly increased cell viability under H2O2-induced oxidative stress. These findings suggest that lipid-based encapsulation enhances the therapeutic profile of E. purpurea. The optimal lipid formulation was incorporated into a Carbopol-based gel, which demonstrated an appropriate pH (5.15 ± 0.75), favorable textural properties, sustained polyphenol release, and overall good stability. This research highlights the potential of plant-derived bioactives in the development of dermatocosmetic products, aligning with current trends in eco-conscious and sustainable skincare.

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