Controlled Release of Essential Oils: Mechanisms, Biocompatibility, and Application Perspectives

Abstract

The efficient control of essential oils (EOs) active compounds release is essential, especially in pharmaceutical formulations, where the stability and bioavailability of active compounds are critical. The use of an encapsulation matrix with specific properties allows for the adjustment of solubility differences, diffusion, and controlled degradation, ensuring optimal and prolonged release of active substances. On the other side, the biocompatibility and safety of materials used for medical applications, the delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients, the preservation of food and their use in the cosmetics industry are essential factors. The functionalized materials should neither be toxic, nor cause inflammatory or other pathogenic processes. Therefore, a thorough control of the mechanism of release of the active principle, as well as the factors influencing biocompatibility, possible side effects that might occur as a result of biodegradation of the material, must be carried out, and all this is possible by performing biocompatibility tests.