Clove Oil Nanoemulsion Versus Alcoholic Extract: Preparation, Characterization, and Comparative Anticancer Efficacy Against Gastric Cancer Cells

Abstract

Background: Gastric cancer is a global health issue, and efforts are being made to discover new compounds that can be used to treat or prevent this disease. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) contains eugenol and other bioactive compounds that have antioxidant and anticancer effects. The use of nanoemulsion technology can help to improve the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of these natural compounds, which in turn may enhance their therapeutic ability. Objective: This study aimed to compare the chemical composition and anticancer activity of clove oil nanoemulsions and alcoholic clove extract against human gastric cancer cells. Methods: Both clove oil nanoemulsion and alcoholic extract were prepared using standardized methods, with 50% ethanol employed for the extraction of active compounds. The samples were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) for particle size analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for identification of functional groups and structural features. Their anticancer activity was evaluated using the MTT assay on a gastric cancer cell line by testing multiple concentrations and assessing effects on cell viability. Results: FTIR analysis revealed the presence of key functional groups in both the nanoemulsion and the alcoholic extract, such as phenolic hydroxyl groups (O–H) and aromatic bonds (C=C), confirming the presence of eugenol as the main active ingredient in both preparations. However, the nanoemulsion exhibited higher spectral intensity and a better distribution of nonpolar compounds, indicating improved solubility and stability of the active compounds. Both samples demonstrated antioxidant activity and the ability to inhibit the growth of gastric cancer cells. The nanoemulsion was found to have significantly higher potency compared to the alcoholic extract, with an IC50 value of 36.30±1.47 μg/mL compared to 41.67±1.53 μg/mL for the extract. Conclusions: This difference is attributable to enhanced solubility, stability and cellular uptake of the active compounds in the nanoemulsion. The results suggest that clove oil nanoemulsions exhibit superior antioxidant properties and anticancer activity compared to conventional alcoholic extracts indicating that nanotechnology and traditional methods together present a unique opportunity for improving bioactivity and bioavailability of natural anticancer agents, which could lead to the development of effective therapies as treatment options for gastric cancer.