Technology Description

The technology constitutes a microemulsion (ME), or more specifically a nano emulsion, for the transdermal delivery of a formulation of herbs that reduce pain and inflammation.

Micro and nano emulsions

MEs are formed by combining a hydrophilic and lipophilic phase with a surfactant. They exhibit the following properties:

• Thermodynamic stability
  
• Very low surface tension
  
• Optical isotropy
  
• Transparency or slight opalescence
  
• Low viscosity
  
• Particle size in the range of 10-200 nm
  
• Highly dynamic structures due to fluctuating surfaces

MEs have certain advantages over other topical drug delivery means in terms of both preparation and pharmaceutical use:

• Spontaneous formation without energy
  
• Long-term stability
  
• High variability of the composition depending on surfactant used
  
• High solubilization capacity for hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs
  
• Improvement of both dermal and transdermal drug delivery
  
• Drug localizer effect, depending on the components

Nanoemulsions (NE), having an even smaller particle size, create a large surface-to-volume ratio, so more of the active ingredients contacts and penetrate the skin. These nano- particles do not clog pores and have the advantage of allowing air and water to flow between them. Curvature definitions of the particles can affect emulsion potency and interaction characteristics with the skin.

One of the experts clarified, "Emulsions just mean mixing two unblendable liquids (like oil and vinegar) where one of the liquids is suspended in the other. With nanoemulsions, as opposed just plain emulsions, one liquid disperses in nano-scale droplets throughout the other. Nanoemulsions are so fine that they can be sprayed on. Companies that sell them claim that nanoemulsions can transport beneficial compounds deep into the skin and in high concentrations."

Experiments were carried out on the TROIS product to ascertain particle size and distribution, poly dispersity index and zeta potential. The microemulsion indeed has a particle size in the range of nanometers.

Contact details:

Information Manager
Email: timeis@ficci.com