Cyclodextrin Nanosponge Based Babchi Oil Hydrogel Ameliorates Imiquimod-induced Psoriasis in Swiss Mice: An Impact on Safety and Efficacy

Background: Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease, involves the integration of biological and molecular events by hyperproliferation of the epidermal keratinocytes and generation of inflammation markers. Owing to severe complications of synthetic corticosteroids, there is a strong need for a potential and safe alternative. Babchi oil (natural essential oil; BO) may prove to be a promising natural agent for psoriasis. Objective: The aim of the present work was to investigate the safety and efficacy of cyclodextrin nanosponge based babchi oil (BONS) hydrogel on skin annexes. Methods: Babchi Oil Nanosponge Hydrogel (BONS-HG) was fabricated and evaluated. Cell viability studies have been carried out on THP1 cell lines to evaluate cytocompatibility. Irritation potential and in vivo visualization of cutaneous uptake of BONS-HG were carried out using Hen’s Egg Chorioallantoic Membrane Test (HET-CAM) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), respectively. The nano hydrogel was tested in vivo using imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model. Results: The in vitro irritation potential of BONS-HG indicated no sign of erythema or irritation, suggesting the safety of prepared hydrogel as topical formulation. CLSM studies advocated targeting of BO to epidermis and dermis. Along with histopathological assessment, evaluation of oxidative stress markers revealed the significant antipsoriatic activity (p< 0.001) of the prepared BONS-HG. Conclusion: The present study amalgamated the advantages of natural essential oil with this approach for skin targeting and provided an effective and safe topical alternative for psoriasis.