Effervescent Microcapsule Formulation of Mutingia calabura Leaf Extract: Physicochemical and Antioxidant Evaluation

Oxidative stress is implicated in the development of various degenerative diseases, highlighting the need for stable and effective antioxidant delivery systems. Muntingia calabura leaves are rich in antioxidant compounds; however, their physicochemical instability may limit practical application. This study aimed to develop an effervescent dosage form containing microencapsulated M. calabura leaf extract and to evaluate its physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity. The extract was microencapsulated using a fluidized-bed drying technique and subsequently formulated into effervescent microcapsules. The resulting formulations exhibited acceptable organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics, including good flow properties, appropriate moisture content, rapid dissolution, and a slightly acidic pH range (4.03–4.14). Antioxidant activity assessed by the DPPH assay indicated that the extract's radical-scavenging capacity was largely preserved after microencapsulation and effervescent formulation. These findings demonstrate that the combination of microencapsulation and effervescent formulation is a feasible approach to improve the physicochemical performance of M. calabura leaf extract while maintaining its antioxidant potential.