Green Therapeutic Evaluation of Symplocos racemosa and Vitamin E: Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities-An in vitro Study

Background

Natural therapeutic gels are gaining prominence in periodontal therapy due to their biocompatibility, ease of application, and ability to deliver sustained, localized therapeutic effects with minimal systemic side effects. Symplocos racemosa (Lodhra), famous for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, and Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, offer potential benefits in managing periodontal diseases through their synergistic action.

Aim

To formulate and evaluate a novel Local Drug Delivery (LDD) hydrogel incorporating Symplocos racemosa extract and Vitamin E, and to assess its in vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties for periodontal applications.

Materials and Methods

A Local Drug Delivery (LDD) hydrogel was formulated using an aqueous extract of Symplocos racemosa and Vitamin E. The extract was obtained by soaking 15 g of Symplocos powder in 150 mL of distilled water (1:10 w/v) for 48 hr, followed by filtration and concentration. The gel base was prepared using 2.5% Carbopol 940 and 0.1% sodium alginate, to which 1% Vitamin E was incorporated. The pH was adjusted to 6.0-6.5 using triethanolamine to ensure mucosal compatibility. The formulated hydrogel was evaluated for further in vitro properties.

Results

The hydrogel exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, displaying zones of inhibition comparable to those of standard antibiotics. Antioxidant assays revealed a concentration-dependent radical scavenging effect, with moderate efficacy relative to ascorbic acid. Anti-inflammatory tests showed consistent protein stabilization and inhibition of denaturation, with increasing efficacy at higher concentrations, though slightly lower than standard drugs. Cytotoxicity analysis confirmed good cell viability at lower concentrations and only mild effects at higher doses, indicating a favorable biocompatibility profile.

Conclusion

The Symplocos racemosa-Vitamin E hydrogel demonstrated effective antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties with good in vitro biocompatibility. These findings suggest its potential as a safe and natural adjunct for localized periodontal therapy, supporting healing while minimizing systemic exposure.