Comparative Study and Molecular Docking of Chitosan‐Based Thin Films Enriched With <i>Commiphora mukul</i> and <i>Commiphora kua</i> Resins as an Active Packaging Material

ABSTRACT The mounting environmental and health issues associated with traditional plastic packaging have propelled the search for eco‐friendly biopolymer‐based substitutes. In this study, methanolic extracts of Commiphora mukul and Commiphora kua resins were incorporated into chitosan‐based active films, and their physicochemical, mechanical, structural, molecular docking, and antioxidant attributes were analyzed. The thicknesses of the films were 0.073 mm (C2) and 0.080 mm (C3), while optical transmittance varied from 87.27% (C3) to 88.55% (C2), indicating moderate transparency suitable for food packaging purposes. Mechanical properties exhibited that C2 had a comparably higher tensile strength (0.097 MPa) while C3 showed slightly better elongation at break (106.49%), indicating strength and flexibility balance. The antioxidant activity showed considerable inhibition of 50.99% (C2) and 54.95% (C3) in comparison to control. Morphological examination using scanning electron microscopy validated smooth and uniform surfaces with low agglomeration, reflecting successful dispersion of the resin in the polymer matrix. In addition, x‐ray diffraction patterns showed a broad halo at about 20°, typical features of broad amorphous halo chitosan. Moreover, both the compounds showed excellent interactions with chitosan after docking. These findings highlight the promising effect of C. mukul and C. kua resin‐loaded chitosan films as potential active packaging materials.