Formulation and Evaluation of Roselle and Arjuna Herbal Gummies with Potential Cardioprotective and Antioxidant Benefits

Herbal medicine refers to the use of plants and plant products for treating disorders and managing health. It is one of the primeval forms of healthcare and has been practised for thousands of years in countries like India, China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In India, herbal medicine forms significant part of traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. Tulsi, neem, ashwagandha, amla are commonly used medicinal plants for treating various diseases. Globally, herbal medicine is used by nearly 75-80% of the world population. India has a rich biodiversity and huge amount of traditional knowledge related to medicinal herbs. Herbal formulations are commonly used for memory, digestion, improving immunity and treating age related diseases. The World Health Organization has also acknowledged the importance of traditional medicine and issued guidelines for assessment and standardization of herbal medicines. ^[19]

Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as Roselle, belongs to the family Malvaceae and is widely recognized by various names such as Karkade, Roselle, Sorrel, Red Sorrel, Jamaica Sorrel, Indian Sorrel, Guinea Sorrel, Sour-sour, and Queensland Jelly Plant. It is believed to have originated either in West Africa or India and is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions across the world. Roselle belongs to the genus Hibiscus, which includes nearly 400 species distributed globally. The plant exists mainly in two varieties: Hibiscus sabdariffa var. sabdariffa and Hibiscus sabdariffa var. altissima. The variety sabdariffa is commonly cultivated for its edible parts such as calyces, leaves, and seeds, whereas the variety altissima is mainly grown for its bast fibre, which is used as a natural substitute for jute in cordage and textile applications.^[11]

The calyces of Roselle are the most important medicinal part and are rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, anthocyanins, flavonoids, protocatechuic acid, hydroxycitric acid, and organic acids. These phytoconstituents are responsible for its strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and cardioprotective properties.^[9]

Roselle has gained significant attention in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research due to its Hibiscus polyphenol-rich extract (HPE), which shows strong free radical scavenging activity and helps reduce oxidative stress. It is traditionally used for the management of hypertension, liver disorders, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases^.[9]

Its antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects make it particularly useful in the prevention and management of atherosclerosis by reducing LDL oxidation, improving endothelial function, and protecting against vascular inflammation. Because of its excellent therapeutic potential and natural safety profile, Roselle is considered a promising herbal candidate for the development of novel pharmaceutical formulations such as effervescent tablets for antioxidant-mediated management of atherosclerosis.^[17]

Terminalia arjuna is a large tree found largely in South Asia. It is a significant medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. It has various therapeutic effects and has been used for a long time especially for heart-related problems. Terminalia arjuna helps treat heart diseases, cough and breathing problems, ulcers, inflammation and- asthma. The bark is mainly useful in lowering cholesterol, also acts as an antioxidant and improve heart health. Terminalia arjuna grows widely in India, Sri Lanka, Africa, Australia and South America.^[6]

The stem of Terminalia arjuna is used to prevent the heart. It helps with hypertension, heart disease, hypercholesterolemia and works as an antioxidant in humans. The ethanol extract from the bark of Terminalia arjuna can reduce / lower high levels of fats in the blood. In studies on rats with hyperlipidemia giving 250 mg/kg of body weight of ethanol extract reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids in the blood. This action may be due to a compound called arjunic acid and its related substances. These substances are converted into active forms in the liver and help lower fat levels in the body. The heart protecting effect of Terminalia arjuna bark may also be associated to a decrease in thyroid activity when taken in certain doses.^[6]

According to the experimental study done by Sumita Halder et al. Terminalia arjuna bark shows anti-inflammatory action mainly by decreasing inflammation in experimental study model. In the study it importantly decreased oedema caused by formalin in a group of mice although it did not show much effect in carrageenan-induced inflammation. It suggests that its action may be precise to certain types of inflammatory processes. The anti-inflammatory effect is likely due to its function to interfere with inflammatory mediators either by reducing their production, inhibiting their release, or protecting their action on target tissue. Terminalia arjuna has antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and tannins which help decrease oxidative stress — an important factor in inflammation. Additionally, its mild immunomodulatory effect may help control immune responses, thereby decreasing inflammation. Study indicates that T. arjuna decreases inflammation through a combination of antioxidant activity, immune response modulation and interference with inflammatory pathways.

Herbal gummies are dietary supplements made from natural, plant-based ingredients. They usually come as chewy, fruit-flavoured candies, which makes them an easy and enjoyable way to consume herbal remedies. These gummies combine the health benefits of herbs with the convenience and taste of candy, making them appealing for everyday use. They may include herbs like turmeric, ginger, or ajwain, each known for different benefits such as boosting immunity, reducing stress, or improving digestion. People often prefer herbal gummies because they are more pleasant to take compared to traditional forms like powders or tablets. They can support overall health, help with specific wellness goals, or be used alongside medical treatments. However, it’s important to use them carefully and consult a healthcare professional to make sure they are suitable for your individual needs.^[16]

Key Ingredients in Gummy Formulation        Active Ingredients. These are the main components that provide health benefits. In herbal gummies, active ingredients may include:

• Herbs (like tulsi, ginger, turmeric)
• Vitamins (such as vitamin C, D, or B12)
• Minerals (like zinc or magnesium)

1. Agar

Agar is commonly used to give gummies their chewy texture. It is a plant-based alternative often used instead of gelatine.

2. Flavouring Agents

Flavouring agents are added to make gummies taste good. These can be natural or artificial, often with fruity flavours like orange or lemon. Natural fruit juices or concentrates are also used, which may provide extra benefits like antioxidants.

3. Colouring Agents

Gummies are usually brightly coloured to make them more attractive. Natural colorants, such as turmeric, can be used to add colour.

4. Preservatives

Preservatives help extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. Common ones include citric acid and sodium benzoate. Some products avoid preservatives by using natural methods to keep the gummies fresh.

TYPES OF GUMMIES^[16]

1. Vegan Gummies

These gummies do not contain gelatine. Instead, they use plant-based ingredients like agar or pectin. They may include herbal extracts, vitamins, and other nutrients.

2. Sugar-Free Gummies

These gummies are made without added sugar. They use sugar substitutes like sugar alcohols or other sweeteners.

3. Functional Gummies

These are made for specific health benefits, such as boosting immunity or improving digestion (for example, elderberry gummies).

4. Multivitamin Gummies

These gummies contain a mix of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin D, B vitamins, and zinc. They help support overall health and well-being.

5. Beauty Gummies

These gummies are made to support skin, hair, and nail health. They often contain ingredients like biotin, collagen, and other nutrients that help improve appearance and strength.^[16]

  PLANT PROFILE

1. Roselle: ^[11,12,9]

1. Scientific name: Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn.
2. Common names: Rosello, Sorrel, Queensland jelly plant, Sour-sour.
3. Other names: Lal ambadi (Marathi)

Patwa (Hindi)

Pundibijja (Kannada).

 

Fig.1: Roselle (hibiscus sabdariffa Linn)

 

Fig.2: Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)

 

Fig. 3: Soxhlet Extraction      

 

   Fig. 4: Evaporation Solvent

Ingredients	F1	F2	F3	Use
Roselle extract	6g	6g	6g	Active ingredient
Arjuna extract	2g	2g	2g	Active ingredient
Agar-agar	3.5 g	4g	4.5g	Gelling agent
Jaggery syrup	12g	12g	12g	Sweetener
Honey	6 g	6 g	6 g	Plasticizer/ humectant
Citric acid	0.3 g	0.3 g	0.3 g	Acidifier
Sodium benzoate	0.1g	0.1g	0.1g	Preservatives
Purified water	40-50 ml	40-50 ml	40-50 ml	Vehicle

 

Fig. 5: Formulation of Gummies

 

Fig. 5: Preparation Of Extract Stock Solution For Phytochemical Test On Magnetic Stirrer

 

Fig. 6: Result of Phytochemical Tests

• Organoleptic Evalution

Table 5: Organoleptic Evalution

Parameters	F1	F2	F3
Appearance	Smooth, uniform shaped,	Smooth, uniform shaped,	Smooth, uniform shaped,
Colour	Reddish brown	Reddish brown	Reddish brown
Taste	Pleasant, sour, slightly sweet	Pleasant, sour, slightly sweet	Pleasant, sour , slightly sweet
Softness	Chewy and soft	Chewy and soft	Chewy and soft
Stickiness	Non- sticky	Non- sticky	Non- sticky

• Weight Variation Test: 

Table 6: Weight Variation

Batches	Average weight (g)
Batch F1	1.59 g
Batch F2	2.18 g
Batch F3	2.66g

      

Fig. 7: Weight Variation Test

• Moisture Content:

Table 7: Moisture Content

Batches	Moisture content
F1	8.3%
F2	7.9%
F3	7.3%

• Ph Test:

Table 8 : pH Test

Batches	pH
F1	2.96
F2	3.21
F3	3.5

 

 

Fig. 8: PH Test on Digital PH Meter

• Observation table:

Table 9: Phytochemical Evaluation

Test	Observation	Result
Flavonoids Tannins Anthocyanin Phenols Saponins	Yellow colour disappears Green-black colour Red to bluish-green Formation of white creamy ppt Stable foam	Present Present Present Present Present

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

The present study successfully formulated and evaluated polyherbal gummies containing Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) and Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) extracts with potential antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits. Ethanolic extracts of both drugs were prepared by Soxhlet extraction and    incorporated into agar-based gummies using jaggery syrup, honey, citric acid, and sodium benzoate. Three           formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were prepared with varying concentrations of agar.

All formulations showed satisfactory organoleptic properties including smooth appearance, reddish-brown colour, pleasant sour-sweet taste, soft chewy texture, and non-sticky nature. The colour of gummies was mainly due to anthocyanins present in Roselle extract.

The average weight of formulations F1, F2, and F3 was found to be 1.59 g, 2.18 g, and 2.66 g respectively, indicating acceptable weight uniformity. Moisture content ranged from 7.3% to 8.3%, which was suitable for maintaining texture and stability of gummies. The pH values ranged from 2.96 to 3.5, showing a slightly acidic nature beneficial for preservation and palatability. The acidic pH may contribute to preservation, however further optimization is required to improve consumer acceptability.

Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanins, phenols, and saponins in the prepared gummies. These phytoconstituents are well known for antioxidant and cardioprotective activities. Roselle contains anthocyanins and polyphenols with strong free radical scavenging activity, while Arjuna possesses flavonoids and triterpenoids known for improving cardiac health and reducing oxidative stress.

Among all formulations, F3 was found to be the optimized batch due to its better firmness, lower moisture content, improved texture, and enhanced stability resulting from higher agar concentration. Overall, the study demonstrated that Roselle and Arjuna can be successfully formulated into a stable, palatable, and patient-friendly herbal gummy dosage form with promising therapeutic potential.

CONCLUSION

The present study successfully developed and evaluated Roselle and Arjuna herbal gummies with potential antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits based on phytochemicals constituent and literature evidences.. The prepared gummies showed satisfactory organoleptic properties, acceptable weight variation, suitable moisture content, and stable pH.

Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of important bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanins, phenols, and saponins. Among the formulations, F3 was found to be the optimized batch due to its better texture and stability.

The study concludes that Roselle and Arjuna can be effectively formulated into a palatable and patient-friendly herbal gummy dosage form with promising therapeutic potential.

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