Optimization of microspheres containing virgin coconut oil and hydrolyzed virgin coconut oil as antimicrobial

Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) with potential fatty acid content has a strong antibacterial effect for drug and cosmetics. VCO was hydrolyzed as hydrolyzed VCO (HVCO) to increase its activity. This study aims to optimize VCO and HVCO microspheres. Examination was included fatty acid content, density, and organoleptic. VCO and HVCO microspheres were characterized by yield, moisture content (MC), morphology, and size. Fatty acid content was done through gas chromatography mass spectrometry whereas for microspheres, effect of alginate concentration (1%-2%), and addition of poly ethylene glycol (PEG) were studied. VCO and HVCO microspheres formulas showed that an increase in polymer concentration, increasing yield, and improving MC. The most optimal 2% alginate with the addition of PEG increased yield up to 59% and reduced size. F4 microspheres resulted the highest yield, low MC, and high fatty acids. Morphology was spherical and smooth with small size. Optimization of HVCO microspheres showed its potential which recommend for antibacterial and antifungal activity.