In-vitro development and characterization of Moringa oleifera leaf extract film for targeted periodontal drug...

Periodontal therapy increasingly explores plant-based agents for targeted drug delivery. Moringa oleifera leaf extract exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteoinductive properties, yet conventional formulations fail to reach the periodontal pocket effectively. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate an oral film containing Moringa oleifera extract for potential localized periodontal application. Existing formulations fail to provide sustained, site-specific delivery in the periodontal pocket. This study addresses this gap by developing an oral film system that ensures prolonged retention and controlled release of Moringa oleifera extract.

Moringa oleifera leaves were shade-dried, soxhlet-extracted with ethanol, and incorporated into three film formulations (1%, 2%, 3%) via the solvent-casting method. Physical characteristics were assessed through thickness, weight variation, folding endurance, pH, dissolution time, and drug content. Biological evaluations included in-vitro anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity (agar diffusion against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa).

All formulations showed smooth morphology, neutral surface pH, and rapid dissolution. The 3% Moringa film (OF3) demonstrated optimal physical stability and highest drug content. The extract exhibited concentration-dependent anti-inflammatory activity surpassing diclofenac. Antioxidant activity was moderate, with an IC50 of 435.77 µg/ml. Antimicrobial activity was weak, showing only minimal zones of inhibition.

The Moringa oleifera oral film displayed favourable physical properties and strong anti-inflammatory potential, positioning it as a promising localized delivery system in periodontal therapy. Further optimization and in-vivo studies are required to validate clinical efficacy.