World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NONIONIC SURFACTANT VESICLE CONTAINING AQUILEGIA FRAGRANS EXTRACT AND ITS ANTI- MICROBIAL ACTIVITY

Raj Sanjeet*, Dharmendra Singh Rajput, Hemant Agrawal, Naveen Gupta

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to formulate, develop, and optimize a lipid-based vesicular system (niosomes) containing Aquilegia fragrans extract, with emphasis on its antibacterial potential. The plant extract was subjected to percentage yield analysis and phytochemical screening, confirming the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics. Niosomes were prepared by the thin-film hydration method using varying ratios of cholesterol and surfactants, followed by optimization based on key formulation parameters. The optimized formulation exhibited favorable physicochemical properties, including uniform dispersibility, an average particle size of 164.03 nm, a zeta potential of −27.7 mV, and high entrapment efficiency. SEM analysis revealed spherical vesicles with smooth surfaces. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. In vitro antibacterial evaluation using the well diffusion assay demonstrated superior activity of the niosomal extract compared to the plain extract, with inhibition zones of 14 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and 9 mm against Escherichia coli. Stability studies conducted over 30 days confirmed consistent particle size, morphology, and antibacterial activity under refrigerated conditions. Overall, the findings establish the niosomal system as a promising delivery vehicle for enhancing the stability and antimicrobial efficacy of plant-based bioactives.

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