Development and characterization of polymeric nanoparticles as Barbatimão (Stryphnodendron obovatum) standardized fraction carrier

Recent studies have shown that Barbatimao fractions are promising for dermatological diseases treatment, due to tannins content and its strong antioxidant activity. In this study, chitosan was used as polymeric matrix for the development of nanoparticulated system able to deliver a Barbatimao standardized fraction. Nanoparticles were prepared by ionotropic gelation method involving the mixing of two aqueous phases at room temperature. The product was characterized by infrared absorption spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, quantification of fraction in the formulation, in vitro release profile, size of particles and polydispersity index. The level of Barbatimao fraction obtained in the formulation was 38.23%, with 30% of encapsulated fraction released in 7 days. No chemical reaction between the fraction and the matrix could be noticed. The particles containing fraction presented an average size of 241 nm and polydispersity index of 0.484. It seems that the phytotherapic formulation could be used as drug delivery system for sustained release of Barbatimao fraction.