Essential Oils as Natural Preservatives: Current Applications
Sachin Prabhakar, Anshu Patel, Dr. Rita Mourya, Dr. Shailesh Jain
ABSTRACT
Plant-based emulsifiers have emerged as sustainable and biocompatible alternatives to synthetic emulsifying agents in pharmaceutical formulations. This review examines the current state of plant-derived emulsifiers, their mechanisms of action, applications in drug delivery systems, and future prospects in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Natural emulsifiers such as lecithin, saponins, proteins, and polysaccharides offer advantages including biodegradability, low toxicity, and enhanced patient acceptance. However, challenges remain regarding standardization, stability, and regulatory approval. This comprehensive analysis covers extraction methods, physicochemical properties, formulation considerations, and recent innovations in plant-based emulsification technology. The growing demand for green pharmaceuticals and personalized medicine continues to drive research into novel plant-derived emulsifying systems, presenting significant opportunities for sustainable pharmaceutical development.
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