Isolation of a lignan-enriched fraction from Schisandra chinensis and its effective solubilization via poloxamer 407-based solid dispersion formulation

This study aimed to isolate a lignan-enriched fraction from Schisandra chinensis and improve the dissolution of biologically active lignans via solid dispersion (SD) formulation. Lignan-enriched fraction was obtained from a hexane-soluble extraction, being poorly soluble in water. To improve the dissolution of major lignans from these extracts, SD formulation of an isolated extract was prepared with different hydrophilic polymers. Among the tested carriers, poloxamer 407 was most effective in enhancing the release of active lignans from extract. Compared to the pure extract, poloxamer 407-based SD significantly increased the dissolution of nine active lignans (schisandrol A, gomisin J, schisandrol B, tigloylgomisin H, angeloylgomisin H, schisandrin A, schisandrin B, gomisin N, schisandrin C) by 1.6- to 300-fold in water. SD also lead to the solidification of sticky extract, providing better flowability and ease of handling. Collectively, poloxamer 407-based SD formulation appeared to be effective in enhancing the dissolution of the active lignans from S. Chinensis.