Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF NUTRACEUTICAL GUMMIES CONTAINING HERBAL EXTRACTS

Deshika Karunanithi, Thillai Vaani Iyyanar, Radhakrishnan Ramesh, Om Prakash Ariyan, Senthil Kumar Krishnan*, Rajalingam Dhatchnamoorthy

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to formulate and evaluate nutraceutical gummies containing herbal extracts of Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) aimed at developing a palatable, convenient, and effective dosage form for respiratory wellness and immunity enhancement. Gummies were prepared using gelatin and agar as gelling agents, glycerine as a plasticizer, citric acid monohydrate as a stabilizer and flavor enhancer, propyl paraben as a preservative, honey and orange juice as natural sweetening and flavoring agents, and distilled water as the solvent base. The formulated gummies were evaluated for pre-formulation and postformulation parameters, including organoleptic characteristics, pH, moisture content, weight variation, texture, drug content uniformity, and in-vitro performance tests. The results demonstrated that the prepared gummies exhibited uniform weight, good physical stability, excellent taste acceptability, and appropriate elasticity. The pH and moisture levels were within acceptable limits for chewable nutraceutical products. The combined action of Liquorice and Vasaka extracts provided soothing, antioxidant, and expectorant effects, indicating potential benefits for respiratory support. Overall, the study concluded that herbal nutraceutical gummies incorporating Liquorice and Vasaka extracts can serve as an effective, stable, and patient-friendly natural supplement for promoting respiratory health and immune defense.

Keywords: Nutraceutical gummies; Liquorice extract; Vasaka extract; Herbal formulation; immune defense.