Formulation and Evaluation of Ginger-Black Seed Oil Alginate Microbeads for Potential Topical Applications

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to optimise and evaluate alginate-based microbeads encapsulating ginger oil (GO) and black seed oil (BSO) using a spraying technique. Methods: Formulations were optimised by varying the concentrations of GO and BSO (0–10%), sodium alginate (SA), and Tween 80 (T80) to assess their impact on bead properties. The resulting beads were assessed for particle size, sphericity factor, and physical stability. Rheological analyses were conducted to understand the flow characteristics of the emulsions prior to gelation. Results: Beads containing a balanced mixture of 5% GO and 5% BSO showed favourable properties, with average diameters of approximately 3.8 mm and a sphericity factor of 0.035. All formulations demonstrated non-Newtonian shear-thinning behavior, an essential rheological characteristic that facilitates ease of spray application while maintaining stability at rest. HPLC quantification confirmed successful incorporation of active constituents, with 6-gingerol detected at 0.0236 mg/ml and thymoquinone concentrations reaching 11.10 mg/ml in 10% GBSO beads. Conclusion: These findings support the potential of alginate microbeads as a stable, preformulated platform for future development of natural oil-based topical delivery systems.