Formulation, Physical Characterization and Antioxidant Potential of Silymarin Suspensions and Emulsions

Silymarin, is a therapeutically important flavonoid act as a hepatoprotective agent. However, has a positive effect on metabolism act as a hydrophobic drug but has a very low bioavailability. The aim of the present study was to prepare appropriate formulations of Silymarin in order to enhance its bioavailability. The natural suspending agents like (Xanthan gum, Tragacanth gum, Acacia gum and Iranian gum) were used for the formulation of suspensions, while emulsions were prepared with the combination of surfactant, co-surfactant and oil. The formulations were evaluated for their physical stability, pH, refractive index and conductivity. Among different formulations and suspensions prepared with xanthan gum as a green stabilizing agents were most stable. Emulsions formulated with tween 80 as a surfactant, polyethylene glycol as co-surfactant and olive oil were clear and stable for more than six months. The refractive index, pH and conductivity of the most stable suspension and emulsions were 1.347, 6.9 and 0.18 s/m and 1.43, 6.9, 0.01 s/m respectively. It was concluded that xanthan gum and tween 80 with polyethylene glycol has a good potential to enhance the therapeutic efficiency and stability of silymarin suspension and emulsion.