Sustainable nanotechnology-based approach for the valorization of Amazonian Carapa guianensis seed oil in dermocosmetic formulations

This study reports the development and characterization of a dermocosmetic formulation based on a nanoemulsion containing Carapa guianensis Aubl., Meliaceae (andiroba) oil, sustainably sourced from traditional communities in the Tapajós National Forest, Pará, Brazil. The raw oil, extracted by the São Domingos Community, was analyzed for key quality parameters. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed a lipid profile rich in oleic acid (50.95%), palmitic acid (23.97%), and linoleic acid (11.31%). Nanoemulsions were prepared using the phase inversion composition method, with vitamin E TPGS as surfactant and Capryol 90 as co-surfactant. Two nanoemulsions were selected based on their favorable physicochemical characteristics: F1 (PDI = 0.353; size = 42.09 nm; zeta potential = −17.3 mV) and F2 (PDI = 0.103; size = 91.19 nm; zeta potential = −8.69 mV). These formulations of nanoemulsions were subsequently incorporated into a guar gum matrix (15% w/w), resulting in a nanoemulsion-based hydrogel, which demonstrated satisfactory preliminary stability. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was assessed via nitric oxide (NO) scavenging, with both nanoemulsions and nanogels exhibiting effective NO inhibition, comparable to or exceeding that of the gallic acid standard at 800 μg/mL. Among the formulations, the F2 nanogel showed superior stability and anti-inflammatory performance, indicating promising potential for further in vivo studies. These findings highlight the potential of this nanoemulsion-based hydrogel as a multifunctional dermocosmetic platform, combining biocompatible nanotechnology with sustainably sourced Amazonian bioactives. This approach not only advances the development of effective topical anti-inflammatory systems but also supports the valorization of biodiversity and traditional knowledge within a framework of sustainable innovation, paving the way for future preclinical and clinical translation.