Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of a Gelatin-Based Biocomposite Loaded with Moringa oleifera and Camellia sinensis: Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Insights

Introduction

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are central to the progression of numerous disorders. Natural bioactive compounds capable of modulating these processes are of growing interest in regenerative medicine. Moringa oleifera and Camellia sinensis are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and catechins, which exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-protective properties. Incorporating these extracts into a gelatin-based matrix offers a novel strategy for developing biofunctional composites with controlled release and enhanced stability.

Aim

This study aimed to prepare and characterize a gelatin-based biocomposite loaded with Moringa oleifera and Camellia sinensis and to evaluate its in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential.

Materials and Methods

Aqueous extracts of Moringa oleifera and Camellia sinensis leaves powder were incorporated into a 2% (w/v) gelatin solution to form a stable biocomposite. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and egg albumin denaturation assays, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. Concentration-dependent effects were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and comparisons with standard compounds were performed using independent t-tests.

Results

The biocomposite exhibited a concentration-dependent increase in both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, comparable to standard reference compounds across all assays (p<0.05). Inter-group analysis showed no statistically significant differences between the biocomposite and standards (p>0.05), indicating equivalent efficacy.

Conclusion

The gelatin-based biocomposite containing Moringa oleifera and Camellia sinensis demonstrates potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic platform for inflammation-related applications.