• Sushil Kumar
• Rajbala Singh
• Arvind Kumar Srivastava

The present study focuses on the development and characterization of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)-based nanoemulsions for enhanced drug delivery applications, with a particular emphasis on topical administration. ALA, a plant-derived omega-3 fatty acid, possesses notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin barrier-restoring properties, making it a promising bioactive compound for pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical formulations. However, its poor aqueous solubility and oxidative instability limit its therapeutic potential. To overcome these challenges, a stable oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsion system was formulated using ultrasonication, a high-energy emulsification technique known for producing uniform and nanosized droplets. Various formulations were optimized by altering the concentrations of ALA, surfactants, and co-surfactants to achieve minimal droplet size and polydispersity index (PDI). The optimized nanoemulsion exhibited a mean droplet size below 200 nm, low PDI, and favorable zeta potential, indicating colloidal stability. Further characterization included pH, viscosity, thermodynamic stability, and visual assessment. Preliminary in vitro and ex vivo studies demonstrated the formulation’s potential for enhanced skin permeation and retention. The incorporation of ALA not only served as the lipid phase but also contributed functional therapeutic benefits, indicating the dual role of ALA as both carrier and active agent. The findings support the use of ultrasonically prepared ALA nanoemulsions as a promising platform for topical drug delivery, paving the way for the development of stable, effective, and plant-based nanocarriers for dermatological use.

Alpha-linolenic acid, Nanoemulsion, Ultrasonication, Topical drug delivery, Omega-3 fatty acid, Skin permeation, Lipid-based formulation, Polydispersity index, Zeta potential

"Development and Characterization of Alpha-Linolenic Acid-Based Nanoemulsions for Enhanced Drug Delivery Applications", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 7, page no.g635-g644, July-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2507691.pdf

"Development and Characterization of Alpha-Linolenic Acid-Based Nanoemulsions for Enhanced Drug Delivery Applications", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 7, page no. ppg635-g644, July-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2507691.pdf