Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF CURCUMIN HYDROGEL

P. Aparna*, G. Shivani Reddy, G. Jasmine, B. Manasa and J. Bhagyalakshmi

ABSTRACT

The formulation and evaluation of a curcumin hydrogel aim to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin, a natural compound with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. However, due to its poor water solubility and low bioavailability, the topical application of curcumin has been limited. To overcome these limitations, a curcumin-loaded hydrogel was developed using a combination of gelling agents such as carbopol guar gum. The formulation was optimized for texture, stability, release characteristics, and drug content. Physicochemical properties, including pH, viscosity, spread ability, and gel strength, were carefully evaluated. In vitro drug release studies indicated a controlled release of curcumin over a prolonged period, demonstrating the potential of the hydrogel for sustained therapeutic effects. The results suggest that curcumin hydrogel offers a promising approach for topical applications, providing a convenient and effective delivery system to enhance curcumin's bioavailability and therapeutic impact.

Keywords: Curcumin, Hydrogel, Drug delivery, Topical application, Bioavailability, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anticancer, guar gum Carbopol, Drug release, Stability, Skin irritation, Controlled release.