Honeybush-phytosomes: A natural OTC allergy remedy
Introducing honeybush-phytosomes, a natural OTC allergy remedy leveraging the bioavailability of South African honeybush. This innovative formulation offers a safe, plant-based solution for alleviating allergy symptoms like nasal congestion and itchy eyes.
Overview
Honeybush-phytosomes present an innovative over-the-counter (OTC) allergy relief product leveraging the natural benefits of honeybush (Cyclopia spp.), a South African botanical known for its rich polyphenol content. These polyphenols exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergy properties, making honeybush an effective natural alternative to synthetic antihistamines. The unique phytosome formulation enhances bioavailability, ensuring that the active phenolic compounds are more efficiently absorbed, thereby increasing their therapeutic efficacy. This product aims to relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes using consumer-friendly delivery systems like syrups, nasal sprays, and orodispersible films.
Technical specifications
Honeybush is formulated into phytosomes to boost the bioavailability of its active compounds. Phytosomes are vesicular structures that encapsulate the botanical extracts, facilitating improved absorption and efficacy. The product is developed with a focus on:
- Multi-symptom allergy relief: Targets nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes
- Consumer-friendly formats: Available as low dose-volume syrups, nasal sprays, and orodispersible films
- Natural and safe: Utilizes honeybush, known for its safe consumption and pleasant taste
- Efficacy: Preclinical evidence supports its effectiveness against histamine-driven responses and mucosal irritation
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, honeybush-phytosomes have shown promise in preclinical studies. Future validation plans include in vitro and in vivo testing to further demonstrate efficacy and safety. Phase 1 will involve human nasal epithelial and mast cell assays, Phase 2 will use in vivo models to compare against standard OTC remedies, and Phase 3 will optimize delivery systems for market readiness. Collaboration with industry partners is sought for further development and regulatory submission.
About Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) is a large public university of technology in Cape Town, South Africa, with more than 35,000 students across five campuses and a strongly applied, socially engaged character. Its research and innovation portfolio connects researchers with government, industry, businesses, and international partners, while technology stations, research chairs, and partnership offices help move knowledge toward practical use. A dedicated Technology Transfer Office supports intellectual-property protection, licensing, business partnerships, commercialization, and spin-off formation. Research support draws on competitive funding from the National Research Foundation, Department of Higher Education and Training, Department of Science and Innovation, and South African Medical Research Council.
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