Abstract
The present study examines the formulation and assessment of an herbal jelly incorporating Moringa oleifera as a principal functional ingredient, alongside Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon), to enhance nutritional value and immune-boosting potential. Moringa oleifera is recognized for its high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive phytochemicals, which support immune function and overall health. The jelly was formulated using a 10% gelatin base and was enriched with herbal powders and natural flavoring agents, including tamarind and vanilla. The organoleptic properties, consistency, texture, and stability of the jellies were evaluated. The objective was to develop a convenient, chewable dosage form that promotes better patient compliance, particularly among children and the elderly. The study concludes that MO-based jellies provide a palatable and effective means of delivering herbal immune-boosting agents, offering a novel approach to functional confectionery in herbal nutraceuticals.
Introduction
Nutrition
Nutrition is a scientific discipline focused on nutrients, growth, development, equilibrium, and bodily repair. It can be defined as the process through which animals or plants consume and process essential food substances. These crucial nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes.
Immunity
The body’s ability to resist the detrimental effects of pathogenic microbial infections is termed ‘immunity’, while the inability to resist such infections is known as ‘susceptibility’. The study of immunity is called immunology, and the preparations used to induce immunity are called immunological preparations. While immunological mechanisms protect the body against infectious agents, they can also cause continuous damage. The immune system defends an individual against foreign invaders, particularly microbial agents and their toxic by products. However, the activities of this system are not always beneficial to the body. The immune system is intricate and is categorized into two types: i) innate or nonspecific immunity, which involves the activation and participation of preexisting mechanisms, including natural barriers (skin and mucosa) and secretions; and ii) adaptive or specific immunity, which targets previously recognized specific microorganisms or antigens. When a pathogen is unfamiliar to the host, it is initially detected by the innate immune system, followed by the activation of the adaptive immune response.
Jellies
Oral administration is the most widely used and convenient route for various drugs to achieve enhanced pharmacotherapeutic benefits due to its low cost and ease of administration, leading to improved patient compliance. Recent advancements in novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) aim to enhance the safety and efficacy of dosage forms for administration and to improve patient compliance and convenience, thus leading to the development of oral medicated jellies. 4 5] This formulation helps improve bioavailability, bypass extensive hepatic first pass metabolism, reduce dosage wastage and dose dumping, and enhance stability and taste masking. Currently, jelly candies are readily accepted by children with complete dentition as they enjoy the taste and chewing properties of the jellies, which are often flavoured with fruit juices and extracts and possess sweetness.
Types Of Jellies
Jellies can be distributed into three types
- Medicated jelly
Primarily used on mucous membranes and skin for antibacterial, spermicidal, and original anesthetic purposes. These jellies contain sufficient water content. They give a cooling sensation as the water evaporates, leaving a defensive coating before. - Lubricating jelly
Used to lubricate medical bias similar as surgical gloves, cytoscopes, cutlet booths, catheters, and rectal thermometers. - Miscell a n e ous jellies
are thin, transparent, and water answerable. As these jellies are used to slick particulars fitted into sterile body areas like the urinary bladder, they must be sterile.- 1. Patch testing These jellies serve as carriers for allergens applied in perceptivity tests. As the patches dry, a residual film forms, helping maintain distinction and help result confusion.
- 2. Electrocardiography Jelly is applied to electrodes to reduce electrical resistance between the case’s skin and the electrode. The jelly contains Sodium Chloride, Pumice Powder, and Glycerine. Sodium Chloride conducts electricity effectively, while Glycerine acts as a humectant.
Advantages
1. Can be administered anywhere and anytime without water.
2. Allows for design inflexibility.
3. Enhances bioavailability or addresses first pass metabolism.
4. Excellent for acute drug.
5. Simple to manufacture and bring effective
Disadvantages
1. Inadequately formulated jellies may have an unpleasant taste.
2. High threat of microbial impurity.
3. Oral jellies are hygroscopic, taking storehouse in dry conditions
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Piyush S. Mahajan, Dr. S. D Barhate, Roshani R. Naik, Vaishali V. Naik and Sakshi A. Nanote, Formulation and Evaluation of Moringa Oleifera Nutritive and Immune Boosting Jelly, World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, SJIF Impact Factor 8.453, Volume 14, Issue 10, 927-944. Research Article ISSN 2277–7105, www.wjpr.net │ Vol 14, Issue 10, 2025. │ ISO 9001: 2015 Certified Journal │927
