Development of a gastroprotector from Algrizea minor essential oil complexed with β-Cyclodextrin

Algrizea minor, a member of the Myrtaceae family, is found in the Cerrado and Caatinga biomes. Essential oils (EO) are highly volatile, prompting the need to minimize volatilization losses and enhance their therapeutic effects. Cyclodextrins, cyclic and inert oligosaccharides, have the capability to form inclusion complexes with various molecules. Gastritis, an inflammatory condition, manifests painful episodes that may involve gastric and duodenal peptic ulcers. This study aims to evaluate the pharmacological potential of Algrizea minor essential oil in both free and complexed forms with β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD). The inclusion complex was created by combining essential oil and β-CD in a 1:1 ratio based on the molecular weight of the major compound in the oil. Characterization was conducted using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetry (TG). Gastroprotective capacity, physical barrier, and pathways of gastroprotection were assessed. The essential oil distinguished itself with the presence of β-Pinene and α-Pinene. Characterization of the inclusion complex revealed features of both the EO and β-CD. Tests demonstrated the curative efficacy of both free and complexed oils, with effectiveness dependent on the dosage. Intense gastroprotective activity was observed, with 90.25% and 99% inhibition of gastric injury for the free and complexed oils, respectively. It was determined that the pharmacological mechanism of action involves the stimulation of sulfhydryl compound production, the expression of nitric oxide (NO) and ATP-dependent potassium channels. Cytokines and oxidative stress were measured, and their responses contradicted the gastroprotection analysis. The tests highlighted the curative efficiency of both free and complexed oils, showing intensified gastroprotective activity when Algrizea minor essential oil was complexed with β-Cyclodextrin.