Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil in Beta-Cyclodextrin for Solid-State Pharmaceutical Applications

Area of Science:

• Natural Products Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat driven by antibiotic misuse.
• Essential oils (EOs) offer potential antiseptic properties as natural alternatives.
• Developing effective drug delivery systems for EOs is crucial for enhanced therapeutic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate the efficacy of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (EO) formulated with cyclodextrins (CD) in tablet form.
• To assess the antimicrobial and antifungal activity of the EO-CD tablets, particularly against resistant strains.
• To explore the potential of these tablets as a safe and green therapeutic option.

Main Methods:

• Green extraction of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (EO).
• Formulation of EO-loaded cyclodextrin (CD) tablets.
• Evaluation of antimicrobial and antifungal efficacy, including against biofilm-producing microorganisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Assessment of efficacy against candidiasis.

Main Results:

• Thymus vulgaris EO demonstrated potent broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal activity.
• The inclusion of EO in cyclodextrins (CD) extended compound exposure time, enhancing efficacy.
• Significant activity was observed against biofilm-producing bacteria (P. aeruginosa, S. aureus) and Candida species.
• The EO-CD tablets showed promise for treating oral and vaginal candidiasis.

Conclusions:

• Thymus vulgaris EO-CD tablets represent an effective, safe, and green approach to combating antimicrobial resistance.
• The formulation enhances the therapeutic potential of essential oils, offering a viable alternative for various infections.
• This sustainable method provides a cost-effective strategy with minimal environmental impact.