Isolation of the mucilages from Hibiscus rosasinensis linn. and Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus linn.) and studies of the binding effects of the mucilages

Objective: To isolate and evaluate comparatively the binding efficacy of the mucilages obtained from the plants of Hibiscus rosasinensis and Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Methods: Extraction of mucilages from the leaves of Hibiscus and pods of Okra (Ladies finger) was carried out by a cold maceration process. The extracted mucilages were subjected to various physicochemical properties for its suitability as an excipient in the formulation of tablet dosage form. Different concentrations (10, 8, 5, 2 and 1% w/v) of binder solutions of Hibiscus and Okra were used for the formulation of tablets and the formulated tablets were evaluated by studying the standard parameters like diameter, thickness, weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration and in vitro dissolution. Stability studies of the formulated tablets were conducted for four weeks. Results: The formulated tablets prepared using the mucilages of both Hibiscus and Okra had good appearance. The in. vitro drug release profile of the tablets prepared using Okra mucilage had an optimum of 90% at a mucilage concentration of 1% w/v concentration mucilage itself within 4 h. Conclusions: According to the observations, the lower concentration levels of Okra can be used as an alternative binder to starch. The higher concentration levels of Okra mucilage show a slow and sustained release, and can be considered as an alternative natural excipient in the modified drug delivery systems. At the same time, the above natural excipient of Hibiscus mucilage could be used as a platform for prolonged release if its binder concentrations are increased.