AGRO-WASTE VALORIZATION THROUGH NANOGEL FORMULATION: ENHANCING THE ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY OF COCONUT SHELL OIL

Abstract

Coconut shell oil, obtained from agro-industrial waste, is a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds including phenolics, long-chain hydrocarbons, and antioxidants. These constituents contribute to its wide range of applications, extending from natural preservatives and biofuels to antimicrobial formulations. In the medicinal and pharmaceutical domains, the biological activities of these compounds further highlight the value of coconut shell oil in agro-waste valorization. Plant-derived extracts such as this are often recognized for their phenolic and flavonoid content, which are directly linked to antimicrobial efficacy. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of natural extracts is frequently constrained by factors such as low stability, poor solubility, and limited bioavailability, which can reduce their overall effectiveness. To understanding these challenges, formulation strategies such as incorporation into gel matrices have been explored. Embedding bioactive oils within a nanogel system provides several advantages: improved stability of active components, controlled and sustained release, and enhanced delivery to target sites. Such modifications can significantly influence antimicrobial performance by maintaining effective concentrations over extended periods. This study investigates the comparative antimicrobial activity of coconut shell oil in its native form and as a nanogel-based formulation. The outcomes are expected to provide insights into the efficiency of gel-based delivery systems in preserving and amplifying the bioactivity of natural compounds. By emphasizing the dual advantages of waste valorization and biomedical utility, this work underscores the potential of coconut shell-derived nanogels as a sustainable platform for developing natural antimicrobial agents.