FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLE OF HERBAL PLANT EXTRACT AND ITS ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY

The present research aimed to formulate and evaluate solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with the plant extract of Ixora coccinea, focusing on their antimicrobial activity. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, and glycosides, while quantitative analysis indicated high levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, known contributors to antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The organoleptic assessment of the extract revealed a reddish-brown color, offensive odor, and a reddish-brown semisolid appearance. Particle size analysis using a Malvern Zeta Sizer demonstrated that the drug-loaded SLNs had an average size ranging from 51.89 to 103.97 nm, which falls within the nanometer range required for improved bioavailability and cellular uptake. Zeta potential analysis, used to predict the stability of colloidal dispersions, showed values between –11.7 mV and –22.2 mV, indicating acceptable stability of the formulations. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed the spherical shape, smooth surface, and porous nature of the nanoparticles, further supporting their stability and uniformity. Accelerated stability studies conducted under conditions of 40 °C ± 2 °C/70% ± 5% RH and 25 °C ± 2 °C/60% ± 5% RH for three months demonstrated that the formulation remained chemically and physically stable. Antibacterial assays conducted using the well diffusion method revealed that SLN formulations exhibited significantly higher antimicrobial activity compared to the crude extract, attributed to the synergistic action of phytochemicals and improved delivery by the SLN system. In conclusion, the study successfully developed a stable and efficient SLN formulation of Ixora coccinea extract, demonstrating improved antimicrobial activity and long-term stability. These findings highlight the potential of SLNs as a promising herbal drug delivery platform and provide a foundation for further in vivo and clinical investigations. Keywords: Ixora coccinea, solid lipid nanoparticles, phytochemical screening, antimicrobial activity, nanotechnology, herbal drug delivery, stability study