Phytochemical Research

Our main area of research remains biodelivery systems of isolated phytochemicals - both as nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. As most of the phytochemicals that we deal with are hydrophobic, their solubilization or emulsification in water is of great significance to us. For topical or transdermal administration, we work with hydrophobic or amphiphilic bases, for targeted delivery. We also work on multi-layered edible systems, for gradient delivery of active ingredients. 

Solubilization/Emulsification: In water solubilization of hydrophobic systems, we have been employing cyclodextrins, besides working on derivatization of hydrophobic systems with non-ionic hydrophilic side chains. For emulsification, we have separate technologies: a) emulsification with non-ionic amphiphiles, yielding a lower particle size, but with a comparatively longer process for the production of the concentrate; b) spontaneous emulsification with non-ionic amphiphiles, yielding a higher particle size, but with a comparatively longer process for the production of the concentrate. Both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages and deployed accordingly. The concentrates are marketed in US as solutions (tinctures), usually for sublingual delivery (in its native form) or oral delivery (after adding it to an aqueous medium).

Topical/Transdermal Administration: In this area, we have been working with triglycerides (with varying lengths of fatty acid side chains), hydrocarbons (varying chain lengths) and non-ionic amphiphiles. The products, meant for targeted delivery of ingredients, are almost exclusively clear liquid solutions, rather than salves, balms, creams, ointments and lotions. The penetrability and the bioavailability of the ingredients are tuned by varying the bases. For salves  and balms, we have been working on a blend of hydrocarbons and triglycerides. The lotions are based on ingredients solubilized or emulsified employing our technologies involved above. We are also working on solutions with the active ingredients at high dilution viz. 1-2 mM.

Multi-Layered Edibles: With a focus on the nutraceutical market, in the US, we are currently working on gradient delivery of different phytochemicals to achieve varying natures and levels of desired effects, while also providing supplementation for chronic conditions, viz. arthritis, cancer, insomnia, multiple sclerosis (MS), neuropathy, vestibulitis.