August 14, 2025 | Frontiers in Nutrition |
The study conducted by Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal, investigated strategies to improve the bioavailability and biological activity of dragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis) extract, which is naturally rich in phenolics and flavonoids but limited by low absorption and rapid metabolism. The research focused on developing phytosomes—encapsulated formulations designed to enhance stability and delivery of bioactive compounds.
Spectrophotometric and chromatographic analyses identified phenolic and flavonoid contents, including citric acid, succinic acid, betanin, rutin, and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside. The phytosomes encapsulated about 46% of phenolics, with stable particle size and surface charge, indicating effective formulation.
Biological activity was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Antioxidant assays showed comparable activity between the phytosomal formulation and the raw extract. However, in animal studies, phytosomes demonstrated enhanced antihyperglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects. While the raw extract had limited impact, phytosomes at a lower phenolic dose achieved similar efficacy to metformin in reducing blood glucose levels and showed stronger activity in reducing carrageenan-induced inflammation.
Overall, the study highlights that phytosomal encapsulation significantly enhances the therapeutic potential of dragon fruit extract. These findings suggest promising applications in functional food and nutraceutical development, as well as in complementary approaches for managing chronic metabolic and inflammatory conditions.
