BIOACTIVE PHENOLATE IONIC COMPLEXES

Abstract

The invention provides an isolated material, or a phenolate form of at least one phenol- containing active material, wherein the isolated material comprises one or more phenolate species and a counter ion (a cation) in the form of a metal salt, a phosphonium or an ammonium.

Claims

1-85. (canceled)

86. An isolated material comprising at least one phenol-containing active material and a metal salt, a phosphonium or an ammonium salt counter-ion, wherein the active material is not phenol (C.sub.6H.sub.6O), methylphenol, bromophenol, dibromophenol, tribromophenol, pentachlorophenol, bisphenol A, tetrabromobisphenol A, resorcinol, hydroquinone, hydroquinone or naphthol.

87. The material according to claim 86, being in the form of an ammonium salt or a phosphonium salt.

88. The material according to claim 86, comprising a divalent metal and two phenolate active materials.

89. The material according to claim 86, comprising two or more phenolic-active materials, each active material having one or more phenolate groups, each of the phenolate groups being associated with a different cation selected from a metal cation, a phosphonium cation and an ammonium cation.

90. The material according to claim 88, wherein the two phenolate active materials are the same or different.

91. The material according to claim 86, comprising a trivalent metal and three same or different phenolate active materials.

92. The material according to claim 88, wherein one or more of the phenolate active materials is an agricultural material.

93. The material according to claim 86, comprising one or more phenolate active material and one or more non-active phenolate material.

94. The material according to claim 86, wherein the phenolate active material is selected from cannabinoids, fenoldopam, tyrosine, xylenol, thymol, propofol, apomorphine, morphine and derivatives thereof, mitoxantrone, dexorubicine, hexachlorophene, acetaminophen, p-coumaric acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, butylparaben, vanillic acid, guaiacol, caffeic acid, tolterodine, raloxifea, scopoletin, decursinol, dopamine, L-DOPA, curcumin, tianine and polyphenols.

95. The material according to claim 94, wherein the active drug entity is a cannabinoid material.

96. The material according to claim 95, wherein the cannabinoid is THC or CBD and chemical derivatives thereof.

97. A material comprising at least one cannabinoid in a form of a phenolate and a cation selected from metal cations, phosphonium and ammonium.

98. A calcium CBD salt comprising one CDB and optionally another non-cannabinoid or two CBDs.

99. A material being a cholate salt of at least one phenol active material.

100. The material according to claim 99, wherein the active drug entity is a cannabinoid material.

101. A formulation selected from a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, veterinary or agricultural formulation, the formulation comprising an isolated material according to claim 86.

102. A material according to claim 86, being in the form of a multimolecular material comprising two or more phenol-containing active materials, each being ionically associated with a cation; wherein the cation is a multivalent metal cation or a poly-ammonium.

103. A particle comprising a material according to claim 86.

104. A composition or a formulation comprising a material, wherein the material comprising an ammonium cation or a poly-ammonium, and at least one active material comprising at least one phenolate moiety ionically bonded to the ammonium or the poly-ammonium cation, wherein the composition or the formulation is for use in treating a disease or disorder which is treatable by administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of the composition or the formulation.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0227] CBD metal complexes are formed according to a variety of procedures. Here, we apply only the most ambient reaction conditions in order to prevent unwanted side-reactions, particularly the chemical modification of CBD. Relative amounts of metal reagent were adjusted based on the metal valence, always kept to ensure the presence of enough metal ions to complex both available phenols in CBD.

Example 1: CBD-Salts Synthesis and Analysis

[0228] Na salt: A solution of NaOH (9.4 mg, 0.24 mmol) in ethanol (3.0 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (35 mg, 0.11 mmol) in ethanol (5.0 mL). The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 1 h and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Na in quantitative yield.

[0229] CBD metal complexes were characterized by the following analytical techniques: [0230] 1) .sup.1H and .sup.13C Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) [0231] 2) Infrared spectroscopy (IR) [0232] 3) Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) [0233] 4) Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) [0234] 5) Melting point (MP) [0235] 6) Elemental analysis [0236] 7) Ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy (UV)

[0237] Each method of characterization confirms an aspect of a successful synthesis: [0238] NMR spectroscopy confirmed that reaction conditions did not disrupt any other part of the molecule, and that CBD structure is maintained, [0239] IR spectroscopy identified new functional groups, especially phenol-metal complexes, [0240] TLC confirmed consumption of starting material, and presence of new material based on differences in polarity, [0241] Melting point confirmed purity of the new substance, [0242] Elemental analysis confirmed that the CH % in the product is reduced due to the weight contribution of the metal content.

[0243] UV displayed a change in the absorption spectrum of the phenol ring

[0244] Results : A variety of CBD-metal complexes have been synthesized with mono-, di-, and tri-valent metal centers. Complexes formed either by reactions with metal hydroxides or salts such as chloride or sulfate (Method 1), or with metal hydrides under anhydrous conditions (Method 2).

CBD-Na Synthesis

[0245] A solution of NaOH (9.4 mg, 0.24 mmol) in ethanol (3.0 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (35 mg, 0.11 mmol) in ethanol (5.0 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 h and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Na in quantitative yield.

CBD-K Synthesis

[0246] A solution of KOH (2.5 mg, 0.045 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (7.1 mg, 0.023 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-K in quantitative yield.

CBD-Ca Synthesis

[0247] A solution of CaCl.sub.2 (5.2 mg, 0.046 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (7.3 mg,0.023 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Ca.

CBD-Cu Synthesis

[0248] A solution of CuSO.sub.4 (7.2 mg, 0.045 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (9.2 mg, 0.029 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Cu.

CBD-Zn Synthesis

[0249] A solution of ZnCl.sub.2 (2.5 mL of a 0.8 mg mL.sup.-1 solution) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (5.2 mg,0.017 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Zn in quantitative yield.

CBD-Al Synthesis

[0250] A solution of AlCl.sub.3 (3.1 mg, 0.011 mmol) in methanol (5 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (5 mg, 0.016 mmol) in methanol (2.5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Al in quantitative yield.

CBD-Fe Synthesis

[0251] A solution of FeCl.sub.3 (9.2 mg, 0.057 mmol) in ethanol (3 mL) was added to a stirred solution of CBD (24.1 mg, 0.077 mmol) in ethanol (5 mL). The mixture was stirred at rt for 1 day and solvent was evaporated, affording CBD-Fe in quantitative yield.

Example 2: Preparation of CBD Salts Be the Reaction With Metal Hydrides or Ethoxides

[0252] Sodium hydride (50% in oil, 2.3 mg, 0.096 mmol) was washed (3 X 1 mL) and finally covered with THF (5 mL) under argon. CBD (15 mg, 0.048 mmol) was then added and the mixture was allowed to stir for 0.5 h. The mixture was diluted with ether (10 mL) and washed with 10% NaOH (3 X 5 mL). Combined organic extracts were dried over Na.sub.2SO.sub.4 and solvent was evaporated affording CBD-Na in quantitative yield.

Reaction of CBD With Sodium Ethoxide to Obtain CBD-Na

[0253] The CBD-Na complex may also be synthesized with sodium metal in ethanol. Sodium (2.2 mg, 0.096 mmol) was added to a solution of CBD (15 mg, 0.048 mmol) in ethanol (5 mL). The mixture was stirred for 0.5 h, diluted with ether (10 mL) and washed with 10% NaOH (3 X 5 mL). Combined organic extracts were dried over Na.sub.2SO.sub.4 and solvent was evaporated affording CBD-Na in quantitative yield.

Analysis of CBD Metal Complexes

[0254] Synthesis of CBD metal complexes was first indicated by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with silica as the stationary phase and a 9:1 mixture of hexane:ethyl acetate as the mobile phase. Plates were visualized under UV light (254 nm) Metal complexes were compared to CBD (Rf = 0.69) and displayed increased polarity (Rf = 0).

[0255] NMR studies show that CBD maintained its structural integrity through these reaction conditions, displaying nearly identical .sup.1H NMR spectra before and after synthesis. The phenolic proton disappear and the aromatic protons of the phenol shifted.

[0256] CBD metal complexes were tested for water solubility (Table 1). Significantly, sodium, calcium and copper complexes were all soluble at 10 mg/mL. CBD plant extract is only soluble at 0.0126 mg/mL.

TABLE-US-00001 Water solubility of CBD metal complexes CBD Metal Complex Solubility in water CBD-Na 10 mg/mL CBD-K 2 mg/mL CBD-Ca 10 mg/mL CBD-Cu 10 mg/mL CBD-Zn 1.7 mg/mL CBD-Al 2 mg/mL CBD-Fe 1.4 mg/mL

Reversibility

[0257] 1 M HCl solution was added dropwise to aqueous solution of CBD-Na until pH of 3 was achieved. Immediate appearance of an insoluble brown oil was observed in the mixture, which was confirmed by .sup.1H NMR to be CBD. The ease of reversibility is paramount to the success of this work, as original compounds may be easily reconstituted by a simple chemical process.

Thermal Properties

[0258] The thermal properties of CBD-Na were compared to CBD by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). DSC was performed under a nitrogen flow of 60 mL min.sup.- .sup.1 at a scan rate of 10° C. min.sup.-1 from 25 to 100° C., showing the thermal behavior of the metal complex and the parent molecule throughout this temperature range. The melting point of the CBD-Na metal complex was found to be 55° C., compared to the observed melting point of 66° C. for the parent CBD molecule.

Preparation of Metal Complexes Using Metal Hydrides

[0259] CBD ionic complexes were performed with metal hydrides (NaH, CaH.sub.2) in order to afford complexes with no side products. A solution of CBD (35 mg, 0.11 mmol) in DCM (1 mL) was added to a dispersion of excess NaH/CaH.sub.2 in DCM ( 1 mL) under dry argon gas. The mixture was left to mix at room temperature overnight. Bubbling was observed in the reaction mixture, related to the formation and release of hydrogen. The solvent was evaporated to afford CBD-Na/Ca. Products were confirmed by TLC in 9:1 hexane/ethyl acetate (R.sub.f = 0) and spectral analysis. The appearance of the product resembled that of ionic complexes formed by reaction with metal chlorides or hydroxides.

Preparation of Metal Complexes Using Sodium Ethoxide

[0260] CBD ionic complexes were performed with sodium ethoxide in order to afford complexes with no side products. A solution of CBD (35 mg, 0.11 mmol) in ethanol (1 mL) was added to a sodium ethoxide solution prepared by adding sodium metal to ethanol (1 mL) under dry argon gas. The mixture was left to mix at room temperature for 30 minutes. The solvent was evaporated to afford CBD-Na. Products were confirmed by TLC in 9:1 hexane/ethyl acetate (R.sub.f = 0) and spectral analysis. The appearance of the product resembled that of ionic complexes formed by reaction with metal chlorides or hydroxides.

Oxidation Stability

[0261] A solution of CBD in ethanol was exposed to air bubbled through and sun light. A decrease in CBD content was recognized after 24 hours of exposure. When the CBD metal complexes were exposed to air bubbled through oxidation and sun light for 24 hours, no change in CBD content is found, as determined by HPLC.

CBD Metal Material Formation

[0262] Divalent metal-CBD complexes are synthesized using different divalent metal hydroxides such as Ca(OH).sub.2 and Ba(OH).sub.2 using the following procedure.

[0263] CBD (1 equiv.) and divalent metal hydroxide (1 equiv.) are taken in a reaction vial with magnetic bar. The reaction vial is kept under Argon atmosphere. Then ethanol:water (1:1) mixture is added and the reaction mixture is stirred at RT. The completion of the reaction is monitored by TLC. After the completion of reaction, ethanol is removed using vacuum. The water is removed using lyophilizer, which yields the divalent metal-CBD complexes as a solid.

[0264] Ca-CBD complex: CBD (100 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) and calcium hydroxide (24 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) were taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. Subsequently, 3 mL of ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added. The reaction vial was kept under argon atmosphere. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD (~48 h), which confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting complex was lyophilized for overnight, which yields the product as a dark violet color solid. The obtained solid product was analyzed using FT-IR and NMR.

[0265] Ba-CBD complex: CBD (100 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) and barium hydroxide pentahydrate (101 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) were taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. Subsequently, 3 mL of ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added. The reaction vial was kept under Ar atmosphere. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD (~48 h), which confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting complex was lyophilized for overnight, which yields the product as a dark violet color solid. The obtained solid product was analyzed using FT-IR and NMR.

[0266] Generally, CBD is soluble in ethanol but not soluble in water. However, Ca(OH).sub.2 and Ba(OH).sub.2 are not soluble in ethanol and slightly soluble in water. Thus, ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was used for the reaction of divalent metal-CBD reaction. When the CBD and Ca(OH).sub.2/Ba(OH).sub.2 was stirred in ethanol:water (1:1) mixture at room temperature (rt), white color partially dissolved solution was observed. When reaction proceeds, the color of the solution gradually changed to dark violet and finally dark violet color solid was obtained after evaporation of the solvent.

NMR Analysis of Divalent Metal-CBD Complexes

[0267] 1H NMR spectrum of CBD and Ba-CBD complex was obtained. The intensity of the peak at 6.01 ppm that corresponds to two aromatic C-H protons of CBD is almost disappeared and a new peak appeared at 6.15 ppm in the Ca-CBD complex. In addition, the peak at 8.66 ppm that attributes to two OHs of CBD is vanished in the Ca-CBD complex.

[0268] Similarly, for Ca-CBD salt, the intensity of the peak at 6.01 ppm that corresponds to two aromatic C-H protons of CBD is decreased and new peaks were observed nearby in the Ca-CBD complex. In addition, the intensity of the peak at 8.66 ppm that attributes to two OHs of CBD is decreased and new peaks were noticed in the vicinity in the Ca-CBD complex.

Characterization of CBD-Na Derivatives

[0269] The synthesized CBD-Na derivatives were characterized by 1H NMR and FTIR spectra. A new peak is appearing at 6.99 ppm in case of CBD-Na (synthesized using NaH) which supports the formation of phenolate anion in CBD. Since CBD contain two phenol groups, a mono or disodium salts may be formed.

[0270] The FTIR spectrum also supports the formation of sodium derivative of CBD. The hydrogen bonded peak of —OH groups at 3425 cm-1 of CBD is suppressed and shifted to 3420 cm-1 for CBD-Na (synthesized using NaH), due to formation of metal derivative of CBD. The peaks at 1628 cm-1 and 1582 cm-1 of CBD are also shifted to 1643 cm-1 and 1514 cm-1 in CBD-Na.

Characterization of CBD-Ca Derivatives

[0271] The synthesized CBD-Ca derivative was characterized by 1H NMR and FTIR spectra. A new peak is appearing at 6.97 ppm in case of CBD-Ca which supports the formation of phenolate anion in CBD. The FTIR spectrum also supports the formation of calcium derivative of CBD. The hydrogen bonded peak of —OH groups at 3425 cm-1 of CBD is suppressed and a sharp peak of non-hydrogen bonded —OH groups is appeared at to 3640 cm-1 for CBD-Ca, due to formation of metal derivative of CBD and breaking of inter molecular hydrogen bonding of CBD.

Example 3: Synthesis and Characterization of CBD-Fe Derivatives

[0272] Synthesis: In a nitrogen purged round bottom flask, 200 mg of CBD (0.63 mmol) was dissolved in 20 ml of ethanol. FeCl.sub.3 (34 mg, 0.21 mmol), dissolved in 10 ml dehydrated ethanol, was added to the CBD solution. The solution was kept for staring in room temp for 24 h.

[0273] The EDX spectra of CBD-Fe confirms the presence of the elements C, O, Fe and Cl and the atomic % is 82 for carbon and 2.17 for Fe. So, the ratio of C and Fe is -38:1. In case of exactly replacement of the two-chloride ion by phenolic —OH group of CBD, this ration should be -42:1. This result confirms the formation of CBD.sub.2FeCl.

[0274] The FTIR spectrum also supports the formation of iron derivative of CBD. The hydrogen bonded peak of —OH groups at 3425 cm-1 of CBD is suppressed and shifted to 3300 cm-1 for CBD-Fe, due to formation of metal derivative of CBD. The peak at 1628 cm-1 of CBD, assigned to bending vibration modes of —OH group is also suppressed and shifted to 1621 cm-1 in CBD-Fe. The strong aromatic bands at 1582 cm-1 and 1442 cm-1 of CBD shifted to 1576 cm-1 and 1426 cm-1 in CBD-Fe salt indicates the change in the aromatic C═C bonds, which shows the conversion of CBD to CBD-Fe.

[0275] The DSC study shows that pure has a peak at 69° C. whereas CBD-Fe shows major peak at 132.69° C. with also a small peak at 64° C.

[0276] For all salts, adding acidic solution such as HCl, convert back the native CBD.

Example 4: Reaction of CBD With Various Monovalent Metal Salts

[0277] CBD reaction with NaOH, Na.sub.2CO.sub.3 or NaHCO.sub.3: In nitrogen purged round bottom flask, 25 mg of CBD was dissolved in 3 ml of methanol. Then 17 mg of Na.sub.2CO.sub.3 or the equivalent of sodium hydrogen carbonate and NaOH. in 2 ml ethanol, was added to the CBD solution. The solution was kept for staring in room temp for 24 h. The final dried mixture contains two portions. One is soluble in water; another portion is insoluble in water. NMR, FTIR and MS of both the two portions were checked. The water-soluble portion contain sodium salt CBD and a compound which might be oxidized CBD. The water insoluble portion contain either unreacted CBD or a single sodium salt.

[0278] CBD reaction with Using NaCl: 20 mg of CBD was dissolved in 3 ml of dehydrated ethanol. Then 8.8 mg of NaCl dissolved in 2 ml dehydrated ethanol was added to the CBD solution. The solution was stirred in room temp for 72 h. No reaction, CBD remain intact, no water-soluble compound.

[0279] Similar results were obtained when using KOH, LiOH, LiCl, KCl, KHCO.sub.3 and K.sub.2CO.sub.3 under similar conditions where the KCl and LiCl did not react with CBD while the base compounds formed the corresponding CBD salt but as a mixture with CBD and probably as oxidized CBD.

[0280] CBD reaction with ZnCl.sub.2: CBD (100 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) and zinc chloride (44 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) were taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. Subsequently, 3 mL of ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added. The reaction vial was kept under Ar atmosphere. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD, as confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting salt was lyophilized overnight to yield the product as a solid.

[0281] CBD reaction with MgCl.sub.2: CBD (100 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) and magnesium chloride (31 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) were taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. Subsequently, 3 mL of ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added. The reaction vial was kept under Ar atmosphere. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD, as confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting salt was lyophilized overnight to yield the product as a solid.

[0282] TLC was checked to confirm the completion of the reactions. After 24-48 h of the reaction, the complete consumption of CBD was observed. Divalent metal-CBD complexes were observed at the baseline of the TLC. TLC and H NMR spectra indicated that the metal salt is obtained with some side products (single metal or dimers) are formed.

[0283] Reaction of CBD and FeCl.sub.3: CBD (58.7 mg, 0.187 mmol) and iron (III) chloride (20.4 mg, 0.126 mmol) were taken in anhydrous ethanol (6 mL) and stirred at rt overnight. Solvent was evaporated to near dryness, and then precipitated into pentane. The pentane fraction contained only CBD, and a precipitate was collected. 1H NMR was unattainable due to presence of paramagnetic iron (III), and so the sample was characterized by gel-permeation chromatography (GPC). The observed MW of 1950 indicated presence of several (~6) CBD units in a complex. The product was then taken up in ethanol/0.1 M HCl (2:1 ratio), and the resulting precipitate was the starting CBD. The same reaction was performed in THF which formed the Fe-complex that was converted back to CBD when acidifying with HCl. Differed complexes were obtained when reacting FeCl.sub.3 with CBD at different ratios and reaction conditions.

[0284] Reaction of CBD and Al(Cl).sub.3: CBD (106 mg, 0.337 mmol) and anhydrous aluminum chloride (35.2 mg, 0.264 mmol) were taken in anhydrous ethanol (15 mL) and stirred at rt overnight. Solvent was evaporated to dryness, and the crude product was washed with chloroform to remove unreacted CBD. 1H NMR displayed a shift of aromatic proton peaks, indicating complex formation. The product was then taken up in ethanol/0.1 M HCl (2:1 ratio), and the resulting precipitate was shown to be CBD.

Example 5: Synthesis of Ammonium-CBD Complex Using Ammonium Hydroxide

[0285] Ammonium-CBD complexes were synthesized using a series of ammonium hydroxides such as tetramethylammonium-, tetraethylammonium-, tetrabutylammonium- tetrapentylammonium- or tetrahexylammonium hydroxides using the following procedure (Scheme 7):

[0286] CBD (1 equiv.) solution in ethanol was mixed with a solution of tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (2 equiv.) in ethanol. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight where ethanol was evaporated to yield the ammonium-CBD complex.

Example 6: Synthesis of Ammonium-Fenoldopam Using Ammonium Hydroxide

[0287] Ammonium-fenoldopam complexes was synthesized using a series of ammonium hydroxides, including tetraethylammonium, tetrabutylammonium and choline. Fenoldopam mesylate (1 equiv.) in ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was mixed with a solution of tetra-alkylammonium hydroxide (3 equiv.) in ethanol:water (1:1) mixture and stirred at room temperature. The completion of the reaction was monitored by TLC. After solvent evaporation, ammonium-fenoldopam complex was obtained.

Example 7: Synthesis of Ammonium-CBD Complex Using Ammonium Hydroxides

[0288] Synthesis of ammonium hydroxide: Various amines such as trimethylamine, triethylamine, tributylamine, trihexylamine, N-methylpyrrolidine and N-methylpiperidine were converted to the ammonium hydroxide derivatives using the following procedure. This allows to synthesis diverse series of ammonium-phenolate complexes.

[0289] In first step, tetra-alkyl substituted ammonium bromides/iodides was synthesized by the alkylation of amine (1 equiv.) with the corresponding alkyl halide (1 equiv.) in acetonitrile. The reaction mixture was stirred vigorously at a temperature of 75° C. for 12 h to form a solid product that was filtered and washed thoroughly with hexane to obtain the pure tetra-alkyl substituted ammonium halides.

[0290] These synthesized and other commercially available ammonium halide derivatives were converted to the ammonium hydroxide derivatives using the following procedure.

[0291] Tetra ammonium bromide/iodide (1 equiv.) in ethanol was mixed with a solution of KOH (1 equiv.) in ethanol and heated gradually to 60° C. overnight. The KBr precipitate was removed by filtration to yield the tetra-alkylammonium hydroxide solution. The solvent was removed by evaporation to yield tetra-alkylammonium hydroxide.

[0292] Preparation of CBD-ammonium salts: CBD (100 mg, 0.32 mmol, 1 equiv.) was taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. The reaction vial was kept under Ar atmosphere. Then 1 mL ethanol was added and stirred to dissolve the CBD. Afterwards, a solution of tetramethylammonium hydroxide pentahydrate (115 mg, 0.64 mmol, 2 equiv.) or tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (40% solution in water, 414 .Math.L, 0.64 mmol, 2 equiv.) dissolved in 1 mL ethanol was added by dropwise. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD, which confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting salt was lyophilized for overnight, which yields the product as a solid. The obtained solid product was analyzed using FT-IR, UV, and NMR.

[0293] Synthesis of ammonium-CBD complex using ammonium halides: Tetraethylammonium bromide (3.15 g, 15 mmol, 1 equiv.) or tetrapentylammonium bromide (5.68 g, 15 mmol, 1 equiv.) or tetrahexylammonium iodide (7.22 g, 15 mmol, 1 equiv.) was taken in a 50 mL round bottom flask equipped with a magnetic bar. A solvent, ethanol (10 mL) was added and the mixture was stirred to dissolve tetra ammonium bromide/iodide. After a clear solution was observed, a solution of KOH (0.84 g, 15 mmol, 1 equiv.) dissolved in ethanol was added. Then the mixture was heated gradually to 60° C. After 24 h, the mixture was cooled to room temperature. Afterwards KBr precipitate was removed by filtration, which yields the tetra-alkylammonium hydroxide solution. The solvent was removed by evaporation that gave tetra-alkylammonium hydroxide.

[0294] CBD (100 mg, 0.318 mmol, 1 equiv.) was taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. The reaction vial was kept under Ar atmosphere. Then 1 mL ethanol was added and stirred to dissolve the CBD. Afterwards, a solution of tetraethylammonium hydroxide (94 mg, 0.636 mmol, 2 equiv.) or tetrapentylammonium hydroxide (201 mg, 0.636 mmol, 2 equiv.) or tetrahexylammonium hydroxide (236 mg, 0.636 mmol, 2 equiv.) dissolved in 1 mL ethanol was added by dropwise. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as an eluent. After the consumption of CBD, which confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting salt was lyophilized for overnight, which yields the product as a solid. The obtained solid product was analyzed using FT-IR, UV, and NMR.

[0295] Synthesis of ammonium-CBD complexes: CBD exhibits pale brown color clear solution in ethanol. When, this solution added with the solution of tetrabutylammonium-and tetramethylammonium-hydroxide in ethanol, when reaction proceeds the color of the solution gradually changed to dark violet. The TLC was checked to confirm the completion of the reaction. After 48 h of the reaction, the complete consumption of CBD was observed. The ammonium-CBD complex was observed at the bottom. However, three other spots were observed in TLC.

[0296] FT-IR analysis of ammonium-CBD complexes: FT-IR spectrum of CBD and their tetramethylammonium and tetrabutylammonium complexes exhibit significant change in their frequencies. The change in the strong bands at 1582 cm.sup.-1 and 1442 cm.sup.-1 of CBD to 1514 cm.sup.-1 in ammonium-CBD complexes indicates the change in the aromatic C═C bonds, which shows the conversion of CBD. In addition, the disappearance of the frequencies at 1628 cm.sup.-1 indicates change in the double bonds of CBD.

[0297] NMR analysis of ammonium-CBD complexes: .sup.1H NMR spectrum of CBD, ammonium hydroxide, and ammonium-CBD complexes were compared. The peak at 6.18 ppm and 5.97 ppm that corresponds to two OHs of CBD is disappeared in the ammonium-CBD complexes. In addition, methyl and butyl protons of the respective ammonium hydroxides are incorporated in the ammonium-CBD complexes. However, due to the involvement of the double bonds of CBD, side reactions were observed in the NMR spectrum. Also oxidized product of CBD was observed. The compound can be further purified by washing with suitable solvents or column chromatography.

[0298] UV analysis of ammonium-CBD complexes: UV analysis of ammonium-CBD complexes compared with CBD was carried out. CBD or ammonium-CBD complexes in ethanol (20 .Math.g/mL) was analyzed for UV. CBD shows absorptions at 229-235 nm and 274-281 nm. These absorptions are widened and shifted in ammonium-CBD complexes.

Example 8: Synthesis of Ammonium-Fenoldopam Complex Using Ammonium Hydroxides

[0299] Fenoldopam mesylate (50 mg, 0.12 mmol, 1 equiv.) was taken in a 4 mL reaction vial with magnetic bar. The reaction vial was kept under Argon atmosphere. Then, 1 mL ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added and stirred to dissolve the fenoldopam mesylate. Afterwards, a solution of tetramethylammonium hydroxide pentahydrate (68 mg, 0.36 mmol, 3 equiv.) or tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (40% solution in water, 243 .Math.L, 0.36 mmol, 3 equiv.) dissolved in 1 mL ethanol:water (1:1) mixture was added by dropwise. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. After the consumption of CBD, which confirmed by TLC, the ethanol was removed using vacuum. The water was removed using lyophilizer overnight, which yields the product as a solid. The obtained solid product was analyzed using FT-IR, UV, and NMR.

[0300] Synthesis of ammonium-fenoldopam complexes: Fenoldopam mesylate exhibits colorless solution in ethanol:water (1:1) mixture. When, this solution added with the solution of tetramethylammonium- or tetrabutylammonium- hydroxide in ethanol:water (1:1) mixture turns to pale green color solution. After completion of the reaction, tetramethylammonium- and tetrabutylammonium-hydroxide reactions convert to dark brown color and dark brown color solid respectively.

[0301] .sup.1H NMR spectrum of fenoldopam mesylate and tetrabutylammonium-fenoldopam complex were compared. The peak at 9.01 ppm, 8.94 ppm and 8.81 ppm that corresponds to three OHs of fenoldopam is disappeared in the tetrabutylammonium-fenoldopam complex. In addition, butyl protons of the tetrabutylammonium hydroxide are incorporated in the tetrabutylammonium-fenoldopam complex.

[0302] UV analysis of ammonium-fenoldopam complexes: UV analysis of ammonium-fenoldopam complexes compared with fenoldopam mesylate was performed. Fenoldopam or ammonium-fenoldopam complexes in ethanol (20 .Math.g/mL) were analyzed by UV. Fenoldopam shows absorptions at 218 nm and 284 nm. These absorptions are widened and shifted in ammonium-fenoldopam complexes. In tetramethylammonium-fenoldopam complex, the absorption at 218 nm and 284 nm shifted to 229 nm and 280 nm respectively. Also, the new absorptions were observed at 306 nm and 338 nm. In tetrabutylammonium-fenoldopam complex, the absorption at 218 nm and 284 nm shifted to 226 nm and 279 nm respectively. Also, the new absorptions were observed at 308 nm and 331 nm.

Example 9: Synthesis, Formulation and Pharmacokinetics of CBD-Choline

[0303] CBD-choline salt was obtained as a dark violet color solid which is soluble in methanol, ethanol and DMSO, insoluble in toluene, hexane and chloroform, and sparingly soluble in water. CBD-choline was confirmed using NMR and FT-IR analyses. CBD was successfully regenerated from CBD-choline salt at pH~3. The methodology of CBD-choline salt was extended to other choline derivatives such as L-α-Phosphatidylcholine. CBD-choline is dispersed in aqueous media using self nano-emulsifying drug delivery system formulation, with particles of hydrodynamic diameter 85 nm and zeta potential -3.7 mV. The LogP 1.71 was determined in octanol/water. The CBD-choline salt was detected by HPLC-MS using the similar method used for CBD. The salt was extracted from acidified plasma in high yield.

[0304] CBD-Choline salt was synthesized using choline hydroxide (46% in water solution). CBD (1.0 equiv.) and choline hydroxide (2.2 equiv.) were stirred at RT under nitrogen atmosphere using methanol as a solvent. The completion of the reaction was monitored by TLC. After the completion of the reaction, methanol was removed under vacuum and lyophilized to yield CBD-Choline as a dark violet color solid.

[0305] CBD is soluble in methanol and forms pale brown color clear solution. When the solution of CBD in methanol was added dropwise to the solution of choline hydroxide in methanol, a dark violet color clear solution was observed. When reaction proceeds, the color of the solution intensifies into dark violet. The salt was isolated as dark violet solid, obtained after evaporation of the solvent.

[0306] Characterization: The .sup.1H NMR spectrum of CBD-choline salt was compared with CBD in methanol-d.sub.4. The peak at 6.08 ppm that corresponds to two aromatic C-H protons of CBD is shifted to 6.00 ppm in the CBD-choline salt. In addition, other protons of double bonds of CBD appeared at 5.28 ppm, 4.47 ppm and 4.43 ppm are shifted to 5.33 ppm, 4.51 ppm and 4.43 ppm in CBD-choline. The NMR study revealed that the formation of CBD-choline. IR spectra of CBD-choline CBD were compared. In CBD-choline, the aromatic frequencies observed in 1643 cm-1, 1622 cm-1 and 1581 cm-1 were shifted to 1640 cm-1 and 1561 cm-1 compare to CBD, which confirms the formation of the CBD-choline salt.

[0307] Regeneration of CBD from CBD-choline salt. To check the regeneration of CBD from CBD-choline salt, CBD-choline was added to a pH=3 solution and extracted with CDCl.sub.3. The CDCl.sub.3 layer clearly shows that the regeneration of CBD from CBD-choline salt, confirmed by .sup.1H NMR.

[0308] A method has been developed for the detection of CBD-choline by HPLC-MS. A linear curve has been defined for concentrations ranging from 5 ng/mL - 1 .Math.g/mL. A linear relationship between peak AUC (y-axis) and CBD-choline concentration (x-axis) has been defined.

[0309] Synthesis of CBD-Choline salts: CBD-Choline salt was synthesized using choline hydroxide (46% in water solution) as shown in Scheme 7. CBD (1.0 equiv.) and choline hydroxide (2.2 equiv.) were stirred at RT under a nitrogen atmosphere using methanol as a solvent. The completion of the reaction was monitored by TLC. After the completion of the reaction, methanol was removed using a vacuum and dried using lyophilizer, which yields the CBD-Choline as a dark violet color solid.

##STR00009##

[0310] Synthesis of pure CBD salts with high regeneration to CBD:

[0311] The synthesis of pure CBD salts using easily removable side- products.

[0312] CBD—Na salt: CBD (300 mg, 0.953 mmol, 1 equiv.) was dissolved in 3 mL dry THF, then NaH (83 mg, 2.09 mmol, 2 equiv.) dissolved in 3 mL dry THF was added dropwise under the N.sub.2 atmosphere over a period of 10 minutes. Afterwards, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at RT for 24 h under N.sub.2 atmosphere. After completion of the reaction, black colour precipitate was formed in the reaction mixture, which was collected and purified by washing several times (10 mL x 3) with n-heptane. The precipitate was collected and dried in a temperature controlled hot air oven. Yield: 260 mg (76%). The resulting CBD—Na salt was analyzed using FT-IR and NMR.

[0313] CBD-Choline (1:1) salt: Choline hydroxide solution (46% solution in water, 391 .Math.L, 1.59 mmol, 1 equiv.) was taken in a 20 mL reaction vial. 10 mL methanol was added and vortexed to dissolve. Then, CBD (500 mg, 1.59 mmol, 1 equiv.) dissolved in 10 mL of methanol was added dropwise under nitrogen atmosphere. The reaction vial was closed tightly under nitrogen atmosphere and covered with aluminum foil. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. The TLC was checked using 10% ethyl acetate/n-hexane solution as eluent. After the consumption of CBD (~48 h), which confirmed by TLC, the methanol was removed using a vacuum. The resulting salt was lyophilized overnight, which provided the CBD-Choline salt as a dark violet color solid that analyzed using FT-IR and NMR.

[0314] Modified synthesis of CBD salt and CBD recovery: CBD-Na salt was synthesized by modified procedure using CBD and NaH instead of NaOH as shown in Scheme 1. CBD (1.0 equiv.) and NaH (2.0 equiv.) are stirred at RT under a nitrogen atmosphere using dry THF as a solvent. After the completion of the reaction, the CBD-Na salt was collected and washed with n-heptane to remove unreacted CBD and other impurities.

##STR00010##

[0315] NMR Analysis: Unlike pure CBD, the NMR spectra of CBD-Na did not show any phenolic OH resonances around at 8.6 ppm in the .sup.1H-NMR spectra. This represents the formation of CBD-Na. Moreover, other aromatic and aliphatic resonances of the CBD-Na were shifted compared to the CBD.

[0316] IR-analysis: The FT-IR spectra of CBD-Na, was analysed with the comparison to CBD. CBD shows the FT-IR stretching frequencies for aromatic hydroxyl groups around at 3518 cm.sup.-1 and 3406 cm.sup.-1. These frequencies are disappeared in its analogue CBD-Na salt which confirms the conversion of aromatic hydroxyl groups into its corresponding CBD-Na salt. The alkane and alkene C—H starching frequency of these compounds were shown at 2931 cm.sup.-1 and 2857 cm.sup.-1 respectively. Most importantly, these compounds exhibited different aromatic C═C and C—O starching frequencies in the range 1643-1428 cm.sup.-1 and 1251 cm.sup.-1 respectively.

[0317] Synthesis, results, and analysis of CBD-Ch salt: CBD-Choline salt (1:1) was synthesized using CBD and choline hydroxide (46% in water solution) as shown in Scheme 10. CBD (1.0 equiv.) and choline hydroxide (1.0 equiv.) were stirred at RT under a nitrogen atmosphere using methanol as a solvent. The completion of the reaction was monitored by TLC. After the completion of the reaction, methanol was removed using a vacuum and dried using lyophilizer, which yields the CBD-Choline as a dark violet color solid.

[0318] NMR analysis of CBD-choline salt: .sup.1H NMR spectrum was obtained in DMSO-d.sub.6. The peak at 8.64 ppm that corresponds to phenolic OH disappeared in the CBD-choline salt. Other aromatic and double bond protons are shifted. The peaks related to choline moiety is observed at 3.11 ppm for three CH.sub.3 protons, 3.38 ppm and 3.81 ppm for two CH.sub.2 protons and 5.52 ppm for OH proton.

[0319] HPLC analysis of regenerated CBD from CBD-Choline (1:1): Regeneration studies were performed for CBD-Choline salt (1:1) in the HCl solution (pH=1.0) followed by extracting of the free CBD using chloroform. The appropriate amount of the CBD-Choline salt (please see table 1 for details) was taken into the 5 mL vial, to this 2 mL of HCl solution (pH=1.0) was added. Few drops of con. HCl was added to make the solution pH=1.0. The resultant mixture was kept in a shaker for 30 min. After 30 min of acid treatment, 2 mL of chloroform was added to the reaction mixture (extraction was repeated for 3 times 3X2 mL) and vortexed for 15 min. The organic and aqueous layers were separated and dried using rotavapor followed by lyophilization for overnight. The weight of the CBD generated after acid treatment from CBD-Choline salt was measured by using weighing and HPLC studies. The results are given in Table 2. Interestingly, CBD-Choline (1:1) regenerates to CBD for about 67.0% HPLC according to the HPLC analysis.

TABLE-US-00002 HPLC studies of the regenerated CBD from CBD-Choline (1:1) salt at pH=1.0 Sample Amount taken for regeneration study (mg) Organic layer CBD regenerat (%) Mol Wt Wt after evaporation (mg) CBD by HPL C (mg) CBD theoretical (mg) CBD-pure For comparison 55.28 58.10 57.52 55.28 100.00 314.47 CBD-Choline (1:1) salt 61.42 44.98 30.99 46.25 67.01 417.63

[0320] Summary: CBD-Choline (1:1) salt regenerates to CBD with 67.01%; CBD-Na was successfully prepared using CBD and NaH.; This methodology was applied to make CBD-Ca and CBD-Mg with fresh CaH.sub.2 and MgH.sub.2.

[0321] Pharmacokinetics (PK) of Cannabidiol (CBD) -choline (Ch) salt: Comparison of the CBD PK profile following administrations of CBD and the Ch-CBD salt to freely moving rats.

Formulation Properties

[0322] CBD and the CBD-choline salt were dissolved in the mixture of lipids and surfactants shown in Table 3. And dispersed in water to form a nano dispersion of about 30 nanometer. This dispersion was administered to rats by either IV or orally.

TABLE-US-00003 PNL formulation used to disperse CBD and its salts in aqueous media Excipient % (w/w) Tween 20 14.1 Span 80 14.1 Lecithin 8.3 Tricaprin 14.1 Hydrogenated castor oil (HCO 40) 14.1 Ethyl lactate 35.4 SUM 100

[0323] For IV administration: Each molecule was dissolved (2% w/w) in pro-nano lipospheres (PNL) formulation (Table 3). Double-distilled water (DDW) was added to a final CBD concentration of 0.2% w/w in the nano-suspension.

[0324] For oral administration: Each molecule was dissolved (5% w/w) in pro-nano lipospheres (PNL) formulation (Table 2). Double-distilled water (DDW) was added to a final CBD concentration of 0.5% w/w in the nano-suspension.

[0325] The percentages above refer to the actual weight amount of the salts, the correction for this amount is mentioned at Table 4 and 5, below:

TABLE-US-00004 Dosage adjustments by Mw difference ratio MW Ratio Administration % in PNL % in suspension Dose (mg/kg) CBD 314.5 - IV 2 0.2 1 PO 5 0.5 15 Ch-CBD 520.8 0.60 IV 1.21 0.12 0.60 PO 3.02 0.30 9.06

TABLE-US-00005 Correction factor and dosage adjustments by MS characterization Ratio Administration % in PNL % in suspension Dose (mg/kg) CBD - IV 2 0.2 1 PO 5 0.5 15 Ch-CBD 0.17 IV 0.34 0.03 0.17 PO 0.85 0.09 2.55

[0326] Pharmacokinetics (PK) in rats of Cannabidiol (CBD)-choline (Ch) salt following IV and oral administration: Pharmacokinetic study was performed using the freely moving rats model. For intravenously administration a dosage of 1 mg/kg was given (corrections for the salts are in Tables 4 and 5). Two groups were assigned randomly to be administered with either CBD (n=5) or Ch-CBD (n=4). Systemic blood samples (0.35 mL) were taken at 5-min pre-dose and at 5, 15 30 minutes and 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, and 8 hr. post dose.

[0327] The oral formulation was administered to the animals by oral gavage with a dosage of 15 mg/kg (corrections for the salts are in Tables 4 and 5). Two groups were assigned randomly to be administered with either CBD (n=5) or Ch-CBD (n=3). Systemic blood samples (0.35 mL) were taken at 5-min pre-dose and at 0.33, 0.66, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 hr. post dose. To prevent dehydration, equal volumes of physiological solution were administered following each withdrawal of blood sample. Plasma was separated by centrifugation (4000 rpm, 10 min) and stored at -20° C. pending analysis. Plasma aliquots of 150 .Math.L were spiked with 10 .Math.L of internal standard cannabigerol (CBG; 1 .Math.g/mL). ACN (200 .Math.L) was added to each test tube (tubes A) and vortex-mixed for 1 min. The extraction of CBD and CBG was performed by N-hexane (3 mL) that was added to each test tube (tubes A), followed by 1 min. vortex-mixing. After centrifugation at 4000 rpm for 10 min, the n-hexane organic layer was transferred to fresh glass test tubes (tubes B) and evaporated to dryness (Vacuum Evaporation System, Labconco, Kansas City, MO). Then, tubes B were reconstituted in 80 .Math.L of ACN: water (80:20). The resulting solution (80 .Math.l) was injected into the HPLC-MS system. Column used: XTerra MS C18 Column 3.5 .Math.m 2.1x100mm column (Waters®, Milford, MA). Mobile phase: an isocratic mobile phase of 20:80 (v/v) 2 mM ammonium acetate/acetonitrile. Diluent: 20:80 (v/v) water/acetonitrile. Flow rate: 0.2 mL/min. Column temperature: 35° C. ± 5° C. Sample Temperature: 20° C. ± 5° C. The detection masses (m/z): CBG - 312.2 and CBD-313.2, with negative electrospray.

CBD and Ch-CBD Salt Pharmacokinetics Profiles Comparison

[0328] The amounts found in the plasma for the salts were adjusted with the 0.17 correction factor mentioned in Table 6, to resemble dosage of 1 mg/kg for IV administration and 15 mg/kg for oral administration.

TABLE-US-00006 PK parameters of CBD following IV administration of 1 mg/kg (or adjusted to that dosage) of CBD and CBD-Choline given in PNL formulation suspended (X10) in water until 8 hours Mean ± SD CBD in PNL (n=5) CBD-Choline (n=4) MW adjustment (0.6) CBD-Choline (n=4) MS correction (0.17) AUC.sub.0-∞ (.Math.g.sup.∗hr/L) 300 ± 43.4 133 ± 29.8 * 474 ± 106 Clearance (L/hr*kg) 3.38 ± 0.43 7.80 ± 1.79 * 2.19 ± 0.5 * Volume of distribution (L/kg) 7.02 ± 2.31 12.64 ± 3.13 * 3.31 ± 0.84 * T.sub.0.5 (hr) 1.45 ± 0.44 1.07 ± 0.05 0.98 ± 0.19 .sup.∗Statistical difference found with P value <0.05, # AUC.sub.0-∞ is calculated for infinity by using the terminal slope

[0329] Statistical difference was found between the AUC, CL and Volume of distribution with both correction factors, using T test with P value of <0.05 while comparing each salt parameter to the CBD itself.

TABLE-US-00007 PK parameters of CBD following PO administration of 15 mg/kg (or adjusted to that dosage) of CBD and CBD-Choline given in PNL formulation suspended (X10) in water until 10 hours Mean ± SD CBD in PNL (n=5) CBD-Choline (n=3) MW adjustment (0.6) CBD-Choline (n=3) Ms correction (0.17) AUC.sub.0-10 (ng*hr/ml) 841 ±319 506 ± 290 1797 ± 1031 AUC.sub.0-∞.sup.# (ng*hr/ml) 846 ± 321 517 ± 301 1836 ± 1070 Cmax (ng/ml) 200 ± 79.5 119 ± 71.9 423 ± 255 T.sub.0.5 (hr) 1.05 ± 0.46 1.37 ± 0.47 1.37 ± 0.47 F.sub.abs(%) (Absolute bioavailability) 18.8 ± 7.1 11.5 ± 6.7 40.8 ± 23.8 F.sub.rel(%) (Relative bioavailability) 61 217 .sup.∗Statistical difference found with P value <0.05, #AUC0-∞ is calculated for infinity by using the terminal slope, $ Fabs= % of absolute bioavailability was calculated using data of CBD in PNL by IV administration

[0330] No statistical difference was found, using T test with P value of <0.05. The comparison between the CBD and Ch-CBD salt, after correcting the real amount of CBD to the Ch-CBD salt (both by MW and by MS). CBD and CBD-choline salt blood levels after IV were comparable, however, the oral bioavailability of the choline salt was significantly higher.

Example 10: Synthesis of Sodium Salt of Oxybenzone and Octyl Salicylate Sunscreens

[0331] The aim of Examples 44-49 is synthesis, characterization and analysis of sodium and choline salts of oxybenzone and octyl salicylate. Oxybenzone (Sigma-Aldrich, USA) and Octyl salicylate (Sigma-Aldrich, USA) were used as received. .sup.1H NMR spectra were obtained on a Varian 300 MHz NMR spectrometer using DMSO-d.sub.6 as solvent.

[0332] In a 100 mL round bottom flask, 500 mg of oxybenzone (2.19 mmol) was dissolved in 10 ml of CH.sub.3OH under nitrogen atmosphere. Then, 87.6 mg of NaOH (2.19 mmol), dissolved in 10 ml of methyl alcohol, was dropwise added to the oxybenzone solution over a long period (1 hr). The solution was kept for staring overnight at room temperature. The methyl alcohol was then removed under vacuum and the precipitate was dried under air to get solid yellowish dust as a pure sodium salt of oxybenzone.

[0333] In a 100 mL round bottom flask, 500 mg of octyl salicylate (2.0 mmol) was dissolved in 10 ml of CH.sub.3OH under nitrogen atmosphere. Then 80 mg of NaOH (2.0 mmol), dissolved in 10 ml of methyl alcohol, was dropwise added to the octyl salicylate solution over a long period (1 hr). The solution was kept for staring overnight at room temperature. The methyl alcohol was then evaporated and the precipitate was dried under air to get solid white powder as a pure sodium salt of octyl salicylate.

[0334] The synthesized sodium salt of oxybenzone and octyl salicylate are characterized by .sup.1H NMR. The peak at 12.02 ppm corresponds to —OH groups of oxybenzone are totally vanished after treatment with NaOH. All the other remaining peaks of oxybenzone are intact in case of sodium salt of oxybenzone with some up field shifting which supports the formation of phenolate anion of oxybenzone. Similarly, in case of sodium salt of octyl salicylate, the peak at 10.60 ppm corresponds to —OH groups of octyl salicylate are totally vanished after salt formation. All the other remaining peaks of octyl salicylate are also intact in case of sodium salt of octyl salicylate with some up field shifting which supports the formation of phenolate anion of octyl salicylate.

[0335] Choline-oxybenzone/octyl salicylate salts are synthesized using oxybenzone or octyl salicylate, respectively, with choline hydroxide using the following procedure (Scheme 11).

##STR00011##

[0336] Oxybenzone/octyl salicylate (1.0 equiv.) is taken in a reaction vial with a magnetic bar. The reaction vial is kept under nitrogen atmosphere. Then methanol is added and stirred to dissolve the oxybenzone/octyl salicylate. Afterward, choline hydroxide (1.1 equiv.) solution in water is added by dropwise. Then the reaction mixture is stirred at RT. The completion of the reaction is monitored by TLC. After the completion of the reaction, methanol is removed using vacuum at RT. The resulting salt is dried using lyophilizer, which yields the choline-oxybenzone/octyl salicylate salts.

[0337] Experimental procedure: Oxybenzone (500 mg, 4.38 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) or octyl salicylate (548 mg, 4.38 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) was taken in a 20 mL reaction vial with a magnetic bar. The reaction vial was kept under nitrogen atmosphere. Then 10 mL methanol was added and stirred to dissolve the oxybenzone/octyl salicylate. Afterward, choline hydroxide solution (46% solution in water, 592 .Math.L, 4.82 mmol, 1.1 equiv.) was added by dropwise. Then the reaction mixture was stirred at RT. After the consumption of oxybenzone/octyl salicylate, which confirmed by TLC, the methanol was removed using vacuum. The resulting product was lyophilized for overnight that yields the product as a viscous liquid (choline-oxybenzone - pale brown color clear viscous liquid; choline-octyl salicylate - pale yellow color clear viscous liquid), which analyzed using FT-IR, and NMR.

[0338] Results and discussion: Oxybenzone/octyl salicylate exhibit pale yellow color/colorless clear solution in methanol. After the choline hydroxide solution in water is added to this solution, when the reaction proceeds, the reaction mixture gradually changed to yellow/pale yellow color clear solution. After completion of the reaction, methanol was removed, and the product was obtained as a viscous liquid (choline-oxybenzone - pale brown color clear viscous liquid; choline-octyl salicylate - pale yellow color clear viscous liquid.

[0339] .sup.1H NMR spectrum of oxybenzone, and choline-oxybenzone salt were compared. The peak at 12.03 ppm that corresponds to OH of oxybenzone is disappeared in the choline-oxybenzone salt. Furthermore, aromatic protons of oxybenzone are shifted (upfield) in choline-oxybenzone salt because of the more electron density of phenolate ion. In addition, nine protons of three methyl (CH.sub.3) groups of the choline hydroxide are incorporated at the 3.59 ppm. Also, two methylene (CH.sub.2) groups of the choline hydroxide are observed at the 3.73 ppm and 3.28 ppm.

[0340] Iron(III) salts of oxybenzone or 2-ethylhexyl salicylate. A solution of FeCl.sub.3 (1.2 eq) in ethanol was added to a stirring mixture of oxybenzone or 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (1.0 eq.) in ethanol. A violet colour was visible immediately. The mixture was covered with aluminum foil and left to stir overnight at rt. Solvents were evaporated, and the crude product was taken up in chloroform and dripped into hexane. The cloudy mixture was then centrifuged and the supernatant was evaporated to afford a powder with a purple colour in quantitative yield.

Example 11: Synthesis of Salcaprozate Sodium (SNAC) Salts

[0341] Salcaprozate Sodium is the carboxylate sodium salt form of salcaprozate, an oral absorption promoter. Salcaprozate sodium is used as a delivery agent to promote the oral absorption of vitamin B, insulin, heparin and recently, semaglutide. In this Example, metal and ammonium phenolate salts have been prepared with the objective to improve the formulation and improve oral bioavailability. Phenolate salts of sodium, potassium, calcium and iron were prepared using one of the methods described above. Ammonium salts with choline and tetraethylammonium ions have been prepared using methods described above. These salts have been used for the improved oral bioavailability of semaglutide and insulin.

[0342] Presented below is a chemical structure of SNAC salts. 1- SNAC; 2- SNAC-sodium; 3- SNAC- Choline, 4- SNAC -Phosphatidyl Choline.

##STR00012##

##STR00013##

##STR00014##

##STR00015##

[0343] Formulation preparation: the formulations were prepared by gradual mixing of the components presented in Table 8 below. All compounds are powders and each material ratio is by mass.

TABLE-US-00008 formulation’s composition. All compounds are powders, and each ratio is by mass Ingredient % w/w Semaglutide 2.4 SNAC or SNAC-salt 70.7 PVP K90 1.9 Avicel ph101 23.6 Magnesium Stearate 1.4

In Vivo Study

[0344] 4 male Wistar rats (Harlan, Israel) are used for each SNAC or salts formulation. Pharmacokinetic study protocol: Male Wistar rats (Harlan, Israel) weighing 275-300 g are kept under a 12 h light/dark cycle with free access to food (standard rat chow) and water prior to trial. Animals are anesthetized for the period of surgery. An indwelling cannula is placed in the right jugular vein of each animal for systemic blood sampling. The cannula is tunnelled beneath the skin and exteriorized at the dorsal part of the neck. After completion of the surgical procedure, the animals are transferred to individual cages to recover overnight (12-18 h). During said recovery period, food, but not water, is deprived if an oral absorption experiment is conducted. Throughout the experiments, free access to food is available 4 h post oral administration.

[0345] Animals are randomly assigned to the different experimental groups. Oral SNAC or salts formulations and dispersed in distilled water, then administrated by oral gavage (~1.2 ml for a rat to get semaglutide dose of 12 mg/kg). Systemic blood samples (0.36 ml) are obtained by intravenous cannula, placed in the jugular vein. In the case of oral administration, samples are taken at 5 minutes pre-dose and at different time points post dose, according to the pharmacokinetic profile (blood will be drawn no more than 10% of rat blood volume). To prevent dehydration, equal volumes of physiological solution are administered to the rats following each blood sampling. Plasma is separated by centrifugation (4000 rpm, 7 minutes, 4 o C) and stored at -20° C. pending analysis. Plasma samples were analyzed by a developed LC-MS method for Semaglutide.

Results

Salt Synthesis Characterizations

[0346] Solubility: SNAC and salts thereof are soluble in water, except SNAC- PC which is water insoluble. While reducing the pH to acidic pH (1.2) as exists in the intestinal environment, SNAC and salts are precipitated. NMR confirmed that the salts regenerated to SNAC at this condition.

Pharmacokinetic Absorption Profile

[0347] The absorption of semaglutide in rats was examined as semaglutide concentration in rats plasma long time after oral administration of SNAC and salts formulations. PK parameters were extracted from the data in a semi-logarithmic scale. The PK parameters extracted from the plot described in Table 9. It is clearly seen that the SNAC-Na formulations didn’t contribute to the semaglutide absorption, compared to SNAC, as all PK parameters presented the lower values compared to other formulations: the AUC of this formulation, the Cmax and the absolute bioavailability. SNAC-CH presented similar PK values as the original SNAC, but the absorption of semaglutide by PC salt formulation displayed the highest AUC, Cmax and bioavailability. The %F (absolute bioavailability) in all cases is very low, however, the value for SNAC-PC in higher than the others by an order of magnitude. The commercial company of oral formulation for semaglutide reported that the bioavailability of their product was 1% in dogs. Moreover, semaglutide concentration reduction in blood over time using SNAC-PC is much slower, compared to the profile with SNAC, which indicates a good potential and improved formulation for administration of semaglutide per os. The reason for the PC salt to be the formulation which exhibited the improved absorption profile may lay on the fact that PC has two lipophilic long chains which may contribute to the hydrophobicity of the formulation and the ability to penetrate through the intestinal walls into the blood stream. It is further important to mention that the formulations were prepared by mass ratios. The molecular weight of PC is larger than SNAC, so in the case of PC salt formulation, the current amount of SNAC is much lower compared to the SNAC formulation. Thus, if to increase the SNAC amount in PC-salt formulation to be equal to the original ratio, even better results may be obtained.

[0348] PK parameters of semaglutide following PO administration of 12 mg/kg of semaglutide in SNAC, SNAC-Na, SNAC-CH or SNAC-PC formulations are shown in Table 9. AUC.sub.0-∞ .sup.# was calculated for infinity by using the terminal slope. F.sub.abs.sup.$= % of absolute bioavailability was calculated using data of semaglutide in SNAC formulation by IV administration as presented in Table 10.

TABLE-US-00009 PK parameters of semaglutide following PO administration of 12 mg/kg of semaglutide in SNAC, SNAC-Na, SNAC-CH or SNAC-PC formulations Mean ± SD SNAC(n=3) Na (n=3) CH (n=3) PC (n=3) AUC.sub.0-8 (.Math.g.sup.∗hr/L) 1626 ±739 1039 ±382 2031 ± 335 5083 ± 2089 AUC.sub.0-∞.sup.# (.Math.g.sup.∗hr/L) 1904 ±852 1183 ± 339 2281 ± 342 7729 ± 4140 Cmax (ng/ml) 867± 378 323± 126 494 ± 108 1132 ± 486 T.sub.0.5 (hr) 3.20 ± 0.87 2.26 ± 1.07 2.62 ± 0.35 4.87 ± 0.98 F.sub.abs .sup.$ (%) (Absolute bioavailability) 0.095 ± 0.042 0.059 ± 0.017 0.113 ± 0.02 0.38 ±0.20

TABLE-US-00010 PK parameters of semaglutide following IV administration of 0.043 mg/kg of semaglutide given in SNAC formulation suspended (X10) in water, over 8 hours Mean ± SD Semaglutide in SNAC IV (n=2) AUC.sub.0-∞ (.Math.g.sup.∗hr/L) 7199 ± 2527 T.sub.0.5 (hr) 3.91 ± 0.26

Example 12: Synthesis of Di and Tricholine Molecules

[0349] Choline hydroxide was found suitable for making choline phenolate salts of active phenol containing molecules. To obtain molecules having more than one ammonium moiety, choline was dimerized by forming an ether bond or forming a carbonate bond using phosgene or phosgene derivative. Choline esters of citric acid and diacids such as oxalic, malonic, sebacic, and fumaric acid have been prepared by condensation using an esterification catalyst. Esterification onto a Poly carboxylic acid molecule such as polyacrylic acid, may form a polymer with multi-choline quaternary ammonium sites that can be used for the formation of phenolate salts.

Example 13: Preparation of Microspheres and Delivery Systems

[0350] Curcumin salt with iron or calcium at a 1:1 molar ratio to form a material that can be formulated into nano and microparticles loaded with a drug or active agent for the delivery to the human or animal body or used for the controlled delivery of agriculture substances such as fertilizers and pesticides. These compounds can be used as carriers for the delivery of drugs or cosmetics to the skin.

Example 14: Preparation of Tapinarof for Treating Hidradenitis Suppurativa

[0351] Tapinarof is a phenolic molecule commonly used for treating skin disorders, particularly for hidradenitis suppurativa. This drug is delivered either by injection under the skin at the diuseased site or applied topically using an ointment or cream. The objective of this Example is to prepare metal or ammonium salts of Tapinarof to increase skin penetration and/or allow extended release of this drug. Salts of silver, copper, zinc and choline were prepared as described above. The salts released the drug in aqueous media for periods from a few days to 4 weeks. The salts were formulated into ointment and cream topical carriers as well as in Lipid or PLGA microsphres for extended release after application.

Example 15: Preparation of Green Tea Polyphenol Nanoparticles

[0352] Polyphenols extracted from Green Tea, in water at a concentration of 10 mg/ml, were mixed in an aqueous solution of FeCl.sub.3 at a 1:100 to 1:10 mole ratio to form nanoparticle. After 4 hours of mixing at room temperature, nanoparticles of 200-400 nanometers were obtained. The nanoparticles were isolated by lyophilization. Similarly, Ca and Zn salt nanoparticles were prepared. The factors affecting the particles size is the ratio of metal ions and the phenolic groups. Increase in the amount of metal ions per phnolic groups as well as decreasing the concentration of the phenol and metal ions in the aqueous solution decreases the size of the nanoparticles.

[0353] Similarly, nano and microparticles of tannic acid with different metal ions were prepared by dissoving the polyphenol in NaOH and to the solution, metal salts were added and mixed for 30 minutes until a nice precipitate is obtained. The particles were isolated by centrifugation or filtration to from a free flowing water insoluble nanparticles and microparticles of the phenolic molecules. Natural polyphenols and mixtures of polyphenols of different sources were used to prepare nano and microparticles with metal ions for use as controlled release systems and entrappment of drugs for controlled drug delivery or as food additives. Synthetic polydopamine was reacted with metal ions to form ionic polydopamine. The monovalent metal salys of Na, K and Li formed relatively soluble polymers while the divalent and trivalent metal ions formed insoluble materials. Insoluble salts were prepared with Ca, Mn, Mg, Zn, Cu, Al and Fe.

[0354] In additional Example, ammonium salts of choline and tetrabutyl ammonium were prepared from the direct reaction with the hydroxides of the ammonium ions.

Example 16: Metal Salts of Cinnamon Extract

[0355] Water soluble cinnamon extract as described in Food Sci. Biotechnol. 24(4): 1201-1207 (2015) were reacted with sodium and potassium salts in water to form soluble phenolate salts or water insoluble cinnamon extract with Ca, Mn, Mg, Zn, Cu, Al and Fe. The preparation of the salts was as described above. High molecular weight cinnamon extracts of molecular weights in the range of 1000 to 20000 or in the form of nanoparticles were used for the preparation of metal or ammonium salts. These salts have shown antiviral and antimicrobial activity when tested against a range of microbial agents.

Example 17: Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate) Salts

[0356] The objective is the Synthesis, characterization, and regeneration studies of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate- metal salts with the comparison of thymol (Scheme 11).

##STR00016##

[0357] The K, Li, Na and Ba salts of thymol were synthesized by reacting thymol with its corresponding alkali metal hydroxides i.e. KOH, LiOH, NaOH, and Ba(OH).sub.2 in the presence of water/methanol mixture at RT or 60° C. for 24 h respectively. Similarly, the tetrabutylammonium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate was prepared by reacting an equimolar amount of thymol with tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBA.OH) in the presence of water/methanol mixture at 70° C. for 24 h (See Scheme 11). While Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mn salts of thymol were prepared by stirring sodium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate with the corresponding transition metal sulfate/chlorides CuSO.sub.4, ZnCl2, FeCl.sub.2, and MnCl2 in the presence of water at RT for 24 h respectively (See Scheme 12). All the synthesized thymol-salts were thoroughly characterized by using various analytical and spectroscopic techniques including NMR, IR, UV-Visible, DSC, EDX, and elemental analysis.

##STR00017##

[0358] The syntheses and characterization details of various 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-metal salts were described is as follows:

[0359] Synthesis of potassium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Thymol (1 gm, 6.656 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL MeOH was added drop-wise to KOH (0.373 gm, 6.656 mmol) in 4 mL of water. Afterward, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated under rota vapor. The resultant black sticky solid was washed with n-heptane (10 mL x 3) and dried in a hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 60% (0.760 gm) FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2956-2865 (v C-H stretching), 1589-1556-1487-1447- 1397 (v C═C stretching), 1292-1270-1242-1193-1165-1150 (v C—O stretching), 1111, 1085-1056-1006 (v C—H in plane bending), 951 (v C═C bending), 857-794-738 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 . .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.57 (d, 1 H, J = 9 Hz, Ar—H), 6.02 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 5.76(d, 1 H, J = 6 Hz, Ar—H), 3.25-3.16 (m, 1 H, iPr-H), 1.98 (s, 3 H, Ar-CH.sub.3), 1.01 (d, 6 H, J = 9 Hz, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0360] Synthesis of lithium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Thymol (1 gm, 6.656 mmol) dissolved in 6 mL MeOH was added drop-wise to LiOH (0.279 gm, 6.656 mmol) in 6 mL of water. Afterward, the reaction mixture was stirred at 70° C. for 24h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated under rota vapor. The resultant dark brown precipitate was washed several time with water (10 mL x 3) and n-heptane (10 mL x 3) and dried in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 87% (0.900 gm). FT—IR— vmax/cm.sup.-1 2957-2922 (v C—H aromatic), 2865 (v C-H aliphatic), 1596-1577-1562-1508-1447-1401 (v C═C), 1292-1274-1233-1169-1157-1112 (v C—O), 1086-1054-1037-1000 (v C—H in plane bending), 953-946 (v C═C bending), 867-859-803-745 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 . .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.69 (d, 1 H, J = 6 Hz, Ar—H), 6.31 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 5.97(d, 1 H, J = 6 Hz, Ar—H), 3.48-3.26 (m, 1 H, iPr-H), 2.03 (s, 3 H, Ar—CH.sub.3), 1.06 (d, 6 H, J = 6 Hz, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0361] Synthesis of tetrabutylammonium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Thymol (1.00 gm, 6.65 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL MeOH was added drop-wise to TBA.OH0.30 H.sub.2O (5.32 gm, 6.65 mmol) in 5 mL of water. Afterward, the reaction mixture was stirred at 50° C. for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated under rota vapor. The resultant sticky solid gave wheat color precipitates upon addition of the distilled water (40 mL), which was further collected using Buchner funnel and washed subsequently several times with distilled water (40 mL x 3) and n-heptane (20 mL x3) followed by drying in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 1.20 gm (46%). .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.79 (d, 2 H, J = 6 Hz, ArH), 6.51 (s, 2 H, ArH), 6.21 (d, 2 H, J = 6 Hz, ArH), 3.27-3.20 (m, 2 H, iPr-H), 3.18-3.13 (m, 8 H, TBA), 2.06 (s, 3 H, Ar—CH.sub.3), 1.61-1.51 (m, 8 H, TBA),1.36-1.24 (m, 8 H, TBA), 1.11-1.09 (m, 6 H, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2), 0.95-0.91 (m, 12 H, TBA). FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2960 (v C—H aromatic), 2872 (v C—H aliphatic), 1586-1480-1458-1380 (v C═C), 1283-1235-1148 (v C—O), 1087-1050-1004 (v C—H in plane bending), 948 (v C═C bending), 883-864-798-738 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1.

[0362] Synthesis of sodium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Thymol (20 gm, 133.13 mmol) dissolved in 30 mL MeOH was added drop-wise to NaOH (5.857 gm, 146.451 mmol) in 40 mL of water. Afterward, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated under rota vapor. The resultant black sticky solid was washed several time with n-heptane (50 mL x 3) and then dried in a hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2952 (v C—H aromatic), 2864 (v C—H aliphatic), 1635-1595-1557-1491-1396 (v C═C), 1289-1263-1196-1166-1151 (v C—O), 1086-1054-1008 (v C—H in plane bending), 952 (v C═C bending), 860-795-739 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-.sup.1. .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.66 (d, 1 H, J = 6 Hz, Ar—H), 6.22 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 5.93(d, 1 H, J = 9 Hz, Ar—H), 3.25-3.16 (m, 1 H, iPr-H), 2.00 (s, 3 H, Ar—CH.sub.3), 1.05 (d, 6 H, J = 9 Hz, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0363] Synthesis of 2Na(2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate).sub.4Zn: Na-Thymol (5 gm, 29.03 mmol) dissolved in 70 mL of dry THF was added drop-wise to Zn(II)Cl.sub.2 (1.009 gm, 7.404 mmol) in 20 mL of dry THF. Afterward, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at RT for 36 h. After completion of the reaction, the NaCl was removed from the reaction mixture by centrifugation. Thereafter, the resultant clear solution was evaporated under reduced pressure followed by drying in a hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 71% (3.742 gm) FT—IR— vmax/cm.sup.-1 2959 (v C—H aromatic), 2868 (v C—H aliphatic), 1581-1506-1493-1456-1418 (v C═C), 1287-1230-1181-1152 (v C—O), 1087-1058 (v C—H in plane bending), 945 (v C═C bending), 861-805-738 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 . .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.93 (d, 1 H, J = 6 Hz, Ar—H), 6.57 (s, 1H, Ar—H), 6.48(d, 1 H, J = 9 Hz, Ar—H), 3.22-3.08 (m, 1 H, iPr-H), 2.14 (s, 3 H, ArCH.sub.3), 1.11 (d, 6 H, J = 9 Hz, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0364] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00018##

[0365] Synthesis of barium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Thymol (0.5 gm, 3.28 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL MeOH was added drop-wise to Ba(OH).sub.20.8H.sub.2O (0.5 gm, 1.64 mmol) in 10 mL of water. Afterward, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at 70° C. for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated under rota vapor. The resultant black precipitate was washed several times with n-heptane (10 mL x 3) and dried in a hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 0.520 gm (36%). FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2961 (v C—H aromatic), 2872 (v C—H aliphatic), 1578-1423 (v C═C), 1290-1246-1177 (v C—O), 1089-1059 (v C—H in plane bending), 947 (v C═C bending), 855-807-768 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 . .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 6.95 (d, 1 H, J = 9 Hz, Ar—H), 6.56 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 6.53 (d, 1 H, J = 9 Hz, Ar—H), 3.32-3.08 (m, 1 H, iPr-H), 2.16 (s, 3 H, Ar—CH.sub.3), 1.11 (d, 6 H, J = 9 Hz, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0366] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00019##

[0367] Synthesis of copper(II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Cu(II)SO.sub.40.5H.sub.2O (139.199 gm, 557.49 mmol) dissolved in 500 mL distilled water was added slowly to Na-Thymol (192 gm, 1114.9 mmol) in 1 L of distilled water. After addition, the immediate formation of green precipitate was observed. Afterward, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was filtered through the Buchner funnel followed by washing with excess distilled water (200 mL x 3). The resultant greenish precipitate was dried in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 80% (160.3 gm). The compound is inactive for NMR analysis due to the paramagnetic nature of Cu(II) ion. FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2958 (v C—H aromatic), 2868 (v C—H aliphatic), 1583-1491-1455-1417 (v C═C), 1338-1286-1243-1177-1155 (v C—O), 1088-1058-1004 (v C—H in plane bending), 943 (v C═C bending), 894-805-737 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 .

[0368] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00020##

[0369] Synthesis of zinc(II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Zn(II)Cl.sub.2 (0.451 gm, 3.31 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL distilled water was added drop-wise to Na-Thymol (1.14 gm, 6.62 mmol) in 10 mL of distilled water. After addition, the immediate formation of wheat color precipitate was observed. Afterwards, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at RT for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was filtered through the Buchner funnel followed by washing with excess distilled water (20 mL x 3). The resultant wheat color precipitate was dried in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 71.3% (0.85 gm). FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2962 (v C-H aromatic), 2868 (v C—H aliphatic), 1551-1457-1418 (v C═C), 1289-1260-1155 (v C—O), 855-829-807 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 .

[0370] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00021##

[0371] Synthesis of ferrous (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: Fe(II)Cl.sub.2 (0.367 gm, 2.903 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL distilled water was added drop-wise to Na-Thymol (1 gm, 5.87 mmol) in 10 mL distilled water. After addition, the immediate formation of wheat color precipitate was observed. Afterward, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at RT for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was filtered through the Buchner funnel followed by washing with excess distilled water (20 mL x 3). The resultant wheat color precipitate was dried in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 50° C. for 24 h. Yield: 37% (0.380 gm). FT—IR— vmax/cm.sup.-1 2960 (v C—H aromatic), 2869 (v C—H aliphatic), 1642-1611-1599-1506-1455 (v C═C), 1288-1255-1220-1154 (v C—O), 890-855-809 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 .

[0372] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00022##

[0373] Synthesis of silver 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: AgNO.sub.3 (0.986 gm, 5.807 mmol) dissolved in 4 mL dry acetonitrile was added drop-wise to Na-Thymol (1 gm, 5.87 mmol) in 10 mL dry acetonitrile. Afterward, the reaction mixture was allowed for stirring at RT for 24 h. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was filtered by Whatman filter paper followed and evaporated using rota vapor. The resultant solid was dried in a temperature-controlled hot air oven at 500 C for 24 h. Yield: 55% (0.820 gm). FT-IR: vmax/cm.sup.-1 2961 (v C—H aromatic), 2870 (v C-H aliphatic), 1652-1537-1485-1412 (v C═C), 1289-1223-1175 (v C—O), 855-829-807 (v C—H out plane bending) cm.sup.-1 . .sup.1H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6): δ = 7.31 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 7.13 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 6.96 (s, 1 H, Ar—H), 3.18-3.10 (m, 1 H, iPr—H), 1.85 (s, 3 H, Ar—CH.sub.3), 1.17-1.10 (m, 6 H, iPr-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).

[0374] The resultant structure is as follows:

##STR00023##

Characterization of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate- Salts

[0375] NMR analysis: The presence of organic units in a series of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate- salts were characterized by using NMR analysis. All the samples were recorded in the deuterated DMSO-d6 at room temperature. In contrast to the thymol, the absence of aromatic hydroxyl resonances in these samples around 9 ppm shows that thymol is deprotonated and this observation reveals their salt nature. Moreover, the aromatic protons of thymol-salts were shielded compared to those in thymol, further revealing their salt nature. Cu, Fe, Mn salts of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate were inactive for NMR analysis due to their paramagnetic nature.

[0376] IR Ananlysis: The FT-IR spectra of all thymol-salts were recorded with the comparison to thymol. Thymol showed FT-IR stretching frequency for the hydroxyl group at 3177.48 cm.sup.-1 while this peak is missing in its analog thymol-salts, confirming their salt nature. However, thymol-Li and thymol-Fe showed stretching frequencies for hydroxyl groups at 3436 cm.sup.-1 and 3387 cm.sup.-1 respectively. The assumption is that this might be due to coordinating solvent water molecules in its molecular structure since the reaction was performed in water. The aromatic and alkyl (methyl/isopropoyl) C-H starching frequencies of these compounds showed in the range of 2922-2961 cm.sup.-1 and 2865-2872 cm.sup.-1 respectively. Most importantly, these compounds exhibited aromatic C=C and C—O starching frequency in the range of 1635-1418 cm.sup.-1 and 1290-1155 cm.sup.-1 respectively.

[0377] DSC analysis: The melting temperature of various thymol-salts was determined with the comparison to thymol using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). DSC studies reveal that thymol-salts showing different melting temperature than the parent thymol (See Table 11).

TABLE-US-00011 Melting temperature and enthalpy of various thymol-metal salts with the comparison to thymol Thymol Salt Melting temperature (°C) Enthalphy (Jg.sup.-1) Thymol 50.38 -197.17 Lithium 111 -45.72 Silver 209.01 -40.41 Barium 67.61 -27.83 Cupper (II) 178.01 -94.34 211.06 -16.42 Ferrous (II) 50.92 -194.68 203.22 -439.36 Sodium 38.18 -69.65 Tetrabutylammonium 110.54 -59.90 Zinc (II) 51.88 -111.64 171.55 -338.25

[0378] UV-Visible spectroscopy: In order to study the electronic transitions, various 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate- salts were subjected for UV-Visible analysis with the comparison to thymol in DMF at diluted concentrations. The results reveal that the absorption of Zn, Co, Li, Fe, Ba, and Ag salts of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate are blue-shifted. While the absorptions TBA, Mn, and Cu salts of 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate are within the range of thymol. The absorption of various thymol salts with the comparison to thymol described as follows: thymol: 277, 283 nm; Zinc (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 266 nm; cobalt (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 265 nm; lithium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 269 nm; ferrous (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 264 nm; tetrabutylammonium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 277, 283 nm; manganese (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 282; copper (II) 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 282 nm; barium 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 268 nm; silver 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate: 268 nm; 2Na(2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate).sub.4 Zn: 277,282 nm. The analyses clearly demonstrate the presence of thymol in the 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-salts.

[0379] EDX analysis: EDX analysis was conducted for 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-metal salts in order to identify the percent composition of metal ions therein. The presence of different metals including Ag, Na, K, Fe, Zn, Fe, and Mn with different atomic and weight compositions confirming the formation of their corresponding -isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-metal salt.

Regeneration of Thymol From 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-metal Salts in Acidic Aqueous Media

[0380] Experimental procedure for regeneration studies: Regeneration studies were performed for 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-salts in the 0.1 N HCl solution (1 pH) followed by extracting free thymol with heptane. The appropriate amount of the corresponding thymol-salt (Table 12) was brought into the 20 mL glass vial. To this, 10 mL of 0.1 N was added. The resultant mixture was kept in a shaker for 30 min. After 30 min of acid treatment, 10 mL of heptane was added to the reaction mixture. The collected organic layer was separated from the water layer and carefully dried using rotavapor followed by drying under a temperature-controlled hot oven at 35° C. for 12 h. The percentage of the thymol regenerated after the acid treatment of various thymol-salts is presented in Table 12.

TABLE-US-00012 Regeneration studies of thymol from thymol-salts in the 0.1 N HCl solution (pH = 1) Characterization of regenerated Thymol Thymol salt weight taken Thymol regenerated thymol regenerated (theoretical yield) % of thymol regenerated Sodium 105 mg 62.39 mg 90.9 mg 68 Tetrabutylammoni um 75.2 mg 27.02 mg 28.62 mg 94 Copper (II) 126.21 mg 74.63 mg 103.974 mg 72 Zinc (II) 112.64 mg 54.52 mg 92.38 mg 59 Ferrous (II) 127.64 mg 103.9 mg 107.51 mg 97 Manganese(II) 56.58 mg 36.95 mg 47.78 mg 77 Silver 61.43 mg 20.32 mg 35.62 mg 57 Lithium 129.80 mg 77.12 mg 123.9 mg 63 2Na.sub.4Zn 102.01 mg 63.84 mg 86.127 74 Potassium 49.71 mg 22.5 mg 39.35 mg 57

[0381] The regenerated thymol was characterized by using NMR and IR analysis. The characterization data reveals that all the synthesized thymol-salts are having the ability to convert back to thymol after acid treatment. For Example, the regenerated thymol obtained from TBA-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate was shown resonance at 9.06 ppm, which corresponds to an aromatic hydroxyl group. This indicates the conversion of TBA-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate to thymol and TBA-Cl in the acidic aqueous media. In addition, missing TBA resonances in the same spectra confirms the regeneration of thymol back from TBA isopropyl-5-methylphenolate. Similarly, sodium- isopropyl-5-methylphenolate also confirms the regeneration of thymol by exhibiting hydroxyl resonance at 9.06 ppm after the acid treatment. Moreover, the FT-IR spectra of the regenerated thymol shows the stretching frequency for the aromatic hydroxyl group at 3424 cm.sup.-1 which further confirms the regeneration of thymol back from sodium-isopropyl-5-methylphenolate.

Solubility Studies

[0382] The solubility studies of various thymol-salts were performed in the different aqueous pH solutions (pH = 4, 7, and 10) and organic solvents including ethanol, acetone, and propyleneglycol. The salts were insoluble in water at any pH, except of the sodium salt that was soluble in water. Some salts had some solubiility in organic solvents.

Summarization of the Above Experiments

[0383] Na, K, TBA, Mn, Fe, Ag, Cu Li, Ba, and Zn salts of thymol have been prepared with the comparison to parent thymol molecule and analyzed. The formation of the coresponding salts was confirmed by the missing hydroxyl resonances for the salts around 9 ppm in the .sup.1H-NMR spectra. The absence of FT-IR stretching frequencies in all of these compounds at 3177.48 cm.sup.-1 compared to thymol, further confirms their salt nature. DSC studies reveal that these samples are having high melting temperature compared to thymol. The regeneration of thymol from isopropyl-5-methylphenolate-salts was studied in the acid aqueous media (pH = 1) and the characterization studies reveal the regeneration of thymol back from all samples in its pure form. The melting point of phenolate salts is higher than the original phenol, which allows processing the salt at high temperature with plastic extrusion or steam foaming.

Example 18: Antimicrobial Activity of Phenolate Salts

[0384] phenolate salts demonstrates an activity in protecting crops from bacterial and fungal infections. The following materials were tested: copper salicylate, salicylic acid, copper thymol and thymol.

[0385] The materials were tested against the following contaminants: Erwinia (bacteria), Pythium (fungi), Macrophomina Phaseolina (fungi), Athelia Rolfsii (fungi) and Potato Scab (bacteria).

[0386] Roots infected with the above pathogens were collected and decontamination was performed. Erwinia infected roots were exposed to two tests. In the first test, the percentage of rotten potatoes was measured after 30 days. In the second test, the crop yield after 120 days was measured.

[0387] Lab tests were performed against Erwinia, Pythium, Macrophomina phaseolina and Athelia rolfsii

[0388] Potato scabs were evaluated in crops after 110 days of growing in spring 2020.

[0389] Both the level of scabbing and the crop yield were measured.

[0390] Pythium was further evaluated in a field test in spring 2020. Pythium levels were measured after 110 days of growing.

Results

[0391] Both Erwinia and scabs were eradicated under laboratory conditions with all agents [0392] Copper salicylate was the most active compound against Pythium infections. [0393] Copper salicylate showed improved activity relative to salicylic acid. [0394] Activity was greater against Macrophomina Phaseolina than other fungi

[0395] The copper and zinc-thymol salts were incorporated in polystyrene foam, in a hydrogel during their manufacturing and in coating material of potato seeds and hay packaging material. Moreover, the thymol copper was incorporated in polyethylene sheets during melt extrusion. The salts were incorpoarated in these formulations while thymol could not be incorporated due to its evaporation rate and low melting point. Thymol was constantly released to air over a period of 3 weeks while protecting the hay from microbial contamination.

[0396] In a typical experiment, fresh hay was packed with thymol coated and copper-thymol salt coated packaging. After 2 weeks, the control bale became moldy. The coated bale has not shown any mold.

Example 19: Release of Salicylic/Benzoic Acid From Polystyrene Foam Which Contains 6% Cu-Salicylic/Benzoic Acid

[0397] Copper salicylate, copper benzoate and mixtures thereof were prepared as described in the above examples. Due to the high melting point and water insolubility, these salts were able to be efficiently incorporated into polystyrene foams during steam blowing. Polystyrene foam trays containing 6% Cu-Salicylic acid or 6% Cu-Benzoic acid were investigated for their salicylic/benzoic acid release properties. The release study was done in DDW at room temperature with a shaking of 150 rpm. Around 10 g of foam samples were taken for each tray and added to 550 mL of DDW until total immersion. Polystyrene foam without any active agent was employed as a reference. The solution was replaced after 1h, and 1, 2, 8, 16 and 30 days. The solutions were analyzed for salicylic/benzoic acid quantity using UV by measuring the absorption at 298 nm and 225 nm respectively. Lyophilization process was performed where the detectable concentration is very low. Polystyrene foam trays containing 6% Cu-Salicylic acid showed salicylic acid release of 34.5 mg per tray in 30 days and the 6% Cu-Benzoic acid demonstrated benzoic acid release of 30.7 mg per tray in 30 days. The release profile of salicylic/benzoic acid from the polystyrene foam is presented in the below Table 13.

TABLE-US-00013 Release of Salicylic/Benzoic acid from polystyrene foam containing 6% Cu-Salicylic/Benzoic acid (Release in mg per tray) Time (days) Salicylic acid released from PS Foam (6% Cu-Salicylic acid) in mg per tray Benzoic acid released from PS Foam tray (6% Cu-Benzoic acid) in mg per tray 1 25.3 20.7 2 27.1 21.3 8 29.4 24.1 16 31.4 27.4 30 34.5 30.7

[0398] Determination of distribution of active agents in the entire polystyrene foams: During foam preparation, it is possible that heterogeneous distribution of active agents occurs in the final product due to insolubility issues. The approach herein is to analyze the distribution of the active agents in the foams.

[0399] Small parts from several sections of the tray were taken and dispersed in a water. Salicylic acid (SA) and benzoic acid was analyzed using UV absorbance spectroscopy. The metal ion, in this case Cu (II) was analyzed using ZINCON.

[0400] Small pieces were taken out from various sections of the sample foam and added to aqueous solution which strongly agitated for 24 hours. Thereafter, the solution was analyzed using UV at 296 nm for salicylic acid content. Further, the solution was diluted using ZINCON aqueous solution and analyzed by using UV absorbance at 620 nm. Similar concentration was obtained for all samples which indicate an even distribution in the foam.

[0401] The results revealed that both the active agents, Cu-SA and Cu-benzoate are uniformly distributed in the polystyrene foams.

[0402] These trays were used for planting tomato plants contaminated with various viruses. The plants in trays that contained copper salicylate or benzoate grew well and did not demonstrate any infection of contamination. On the other hand, plants in the blank polystyrene trays were heavily infected.