Antioxidant Activity Test and Antibacterial Gel Formulation of Ethanol Extract of Black Ginger (Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb.) Rhizome

Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb, commonly known as black ginger or wild turmeric, contains several natural compounds that have demonstrated remarkable pharmacological properties. Consequently, considering the information presented above, the purpose of the current study was to analyze the antioxidant potential, create a topical ointment of C. aeruginosa ethanol extract (CAEE), and evaluate the antibacterial activities of the ointment. Research methods included the extraction of C. aeruginosa through maceration with 96% ethanol as the solvent, phytochemical screening, antioxidant measurement using the DPPH assay, formulation (0-15%), and evaluation of the ointment, and testing of the ointment's antibacterial activity using the disc diffusion method. According to the findings of the phytochemical screening, CAEE was found to contain a number of phytochemical substances, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and steroids. The researchers measured CAEE's antioxidant activity, finding it to possess an IC50 value of 6.03 µg/ml. The outcomes of the organoleptic test, the homogeneity test, and pH test were consistent with the parameters for ointment formulations. Furthermore, the antibacterial properties of 15% CAEE ointment (F4) were found to be the most effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. The research revealed that CAEE and its ointment formulation have the potential to be utilized as possible antioxidant and antibacterial agents, as well as resources for the development of novel medications.