FORMULATION OF CAPSULES WITH HEPATOPROTECTIVE PROPERTIES BASED ON THE LEAVES OF DESMODIUM ADSCENDENS (FABACEAE)

Liver health is of paramount importance, given its key role in detoxification and metabolism. Liver diseases, particularly viral hepatitis, represent a major cause of mortality, with current therapeutic approaches limited by their high cost. The aim of this study was to develop capsules based on Desmodium adscendens extract to improve the management of liver problems, by developing an improved traditional medicine (ITM).  To this end, an aqueous extract of Desmodium adscendens leaves was prepared and its physicochemical properties were determined. Phytochemical screening was carried out to characterise the extract. The capsules were formulated and manufactured, followed by rigorous pharmacotechnical  and microbiological testing.
Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of numerous bioactive secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds, saponins, tannins and flavonoids, confirming their role in the plant’s hepatoprotective activity. The addition of 2% anhydrous colloidal silica stabilised the hygroscopic extract and improved its characteristics to facilitate capsule filling. ‘Size 0’ capsules, each containing 486 mg of extract, were produced, with two capsules per day required to achieve the effective dose.
These results validate the potential of this plant for the development of improved traditional medicines, offering a new, accessible therapeutic option for the management of liver conditions.