Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Myristica fragrans Houtt. Seed Extract-Loaded Gel: An In Vitro Study for Therapeutic Applications

Abstract

Myristica fragrans Houtt. (nutmeg) seeds are rich in bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and fatty acids, which are widely recognized for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These pharmacological properties make nutmeg seed extract a promising candidate for developing natural therapeutic agents targeting oxidative stress and inflammation. This study aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of topical herbal gels formulated with the ethanol extract of nutmeg seeds. The phytochemical profile of the extract revealed significant levels of phenolics (19.29 ± 1.94 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (11.73 ± 0.05 mg QE/g), with major bioactive compounds identified through GC–MS analysis, including 9-octadecenamide, palmitoleamide, and myristic acid. Herbal gels containing 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.20% w/w of the extract were formulated using Carbopol^® Ultrez 21 as the gelling agent, and were evaluated for their physicochemical stability. Antioxidant activity was measured using ABTS and DPPH assays, while anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by inhibition of nitric oxide production in vitro. Among the formulations, the 0.20% w/w extract-loaded gel exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (ABTS: 90.65 ± 0.54%; DPPH: 84.06 ± 0.48%) and nitric oxide inhibition (82.42 ± 4.03%), significantly outperforming the standard 1% diclofenac gel. These findings highlight the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of nutmeg seed extract-loaded gel, supporting its potential as a natural, plant-derived therapeutic agent for topical applications. Further in vivo and clinical studies are needed to confirm its clinical efficacy and safety, paving the way for its future use in treating inflammatory conditions.