Processed Lentil Seed Powder as a Potential Matrix Base for Nutraceutical Tablets

Background and aims: Red lentil seeds (Lens culinaris Medik.) are nutrient rich classified under GRAS, never been used as a matrix base in nutraceutical tablets. This study aimed to characterize processed lentil seed powder (PLSP) as a natural, edible alternative to conventional tablet diluents, with the added benefit of partial nutritional value in the formulation. Materials and Methods: Red lentil seeds were processed using a high-speed grinder and sieved through a #60 mesh. PLSP was characterized for micromeritics, surface morphology (SEM), crystallinity (XRD), functional groups (FTIR), thermal properties (DSC), microbial load, cytotoxicity (MTT assay), and accelerated stability per ICH guidelines. Placebo nutraceutical tablets were formulated and evaluated for tableting characteristics. Results: PLSP exhibited good compressibility and flow properties. SEM revealed irregular, porous particles; XRD indicated a semi-crystalline to amorphous structure; FTIR confirmed protein-related functional groups. DSC showed an endothermic peak at 110.36°C. Microbial load was within acceptable limits, and MTT assays showed no cytotoxicity at tested concentrations. Accelerated stability studies revealed PLSP to be fairly stable. Discussion: The results suggest that PLSP is a promising natural diluent and matrix base for nutraceutical tablets. Conclusions: PLSP is a safe, functional, and nutritious matrix base for nutraceutical tablets, offering an alternative to synthetic diluents.