Formulation of mulberry leaf (Morus alba L.) extract hydrogel beads using cross-linked pectin

Objective: Nutraceutical products have now gained considerable interest to be consumed regularly. Since the active substances in nutraceutical products are provided by nature, they are safe to consume. The development of a dosage form and the appearance of a modern nutraceutical product can improve product quality. Therefore, this research aimed to formulate a nutraceutical product, mulberry leaf extract, into hydrogel beads that swell in water and that can be administered orally. Methods: Deoxynojirimycin, the active substance in mulberry leaf extract hydrogel beads, has the efficacy of an anti-diabetic agent. In this research, there were four formulations: The variations 1:2 and 1:3 of the extract-to-polymer ratio and the variations 2.5% and 5% of the cross-linker concentration. Results: The results showed that hydrogel beads had a spherical form with an unsmooth surface and a brown color, and they were able to swell in water. The best formula was Formula 1, with a 1:2 extract-to-polymer ratio and a 2.5% cross-linker concentration. Formula 1 produced an average diameter of 3.6 mm, a swelling ability of 210.68%, and immediate swelling in water for 30 seconds. Conclusions: Mulberry leaf extract hydrogel beads could be used as an interesting nutraceutical product.