Formulation and Evaluation of Nano Emulsion from Curcumin for Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound primarily sourced from Curcuma longa Linn. and exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties when administered either orally or topically. Research has shown that curcumin can inhibit the metabolism of arachidonic acid, as well as affect cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the activation of nuclear factor-kB.¹ It is characterized by very low intrinsic toxicity, even when taken in significantly large doses. Curcumin's poor solubility in water at acidic or neutral pH levels, coupled with its extensive degradation in alkaline conditions, limits its applicability. Additionally, curcumin experiences rapid first-pass metabolism, converting it into inactive metabolites that result in low bioavailability within systemic circulation.² Consequently, various strategies have been explored to enhance the biological effectiveness of curcumin, including chemical modifications, formation of complexes or interactions with macromolecules, and the use of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems.³ Curcumin is a vibrant yellow compound naturally present in turmeric (Curcuma longa), a plant from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It is the key ingredient responsible for turmeric’s characteristic color, taste, and numerous health benefits. Known scientifically as Curcuma longa L., the plant originates from southern Asia and is now widely grown in temperate climates. Turmeric is derived from the plant’s rhizomes, either fresh or dried, and contains a group of active substances called curcuminoids. The major components include curcumin (about 77%), desmethoxycurcumin (around 17%), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (approximately 3–6%). These natural polyphenols give turmeric its bright color and powerful biological effects. Curcumin is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been studied for its potential in preventing and treating cancer. It also supports brain health, protects the heart, and provides natural pain relief, making it a valuable compound in both traditional and modern medicine.⁴ Nanoemulsions encapsulating curcumin are designed to address the major limitations of curcumin's therapeutic use, particularly its poor solubility and low bioavailability. By significantly increasing the aqueous solubility of curcumin, nanoemulsions enhance its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. This improved solubility, along with the nanoemulsion's ability to protect curcumin from rapid degradation, leads to greater systemic bioavailability. Furthermore, nanoemulsions can be engineered for targeted delivery, allowing curcumin to accumulate at inflamed tissues where it is most needed, thereby enhancing its anti-inflammatory effectiveness. These systems also offer controlled and sustained release, maintaining therapeutic levels of curcumin over extended periods, which supports consistent anti-inflammatory action. Additionally, by improving the efficiency of delivery, nanoemulsions reduce the need for high doses, thereby minimizing potential side effects and making curcumin therapy safer and more effective.⁵

Fig.1. Particle of Nano emulsion

Collection of Plant material:

Curcumin that was identified and collected from the Koregaon Bhima, Pune. Maharashtra, India-412216 neighbourhood. The curcumin was cleaned, dried in room temperature, transfer into moderately coarse powder and stored in well closed container before the extraction.

Preparation of Curcumin Extract:

The preparation of turmeric extract begins with washing and drying the turmeric rhizomes, which are then ground into a fine powder. Approximately 50 grams of this turmeric powder is weighed and placed into a thimble, which is inserted into a Soxhlet extractor. Around 250–300 ml of ethanol or methanol is added to a round-bottom flask attached to the Soxhlet apparatus. The setup is then gently heated to allow the solvent to reflux, initiating the extraction process, which is typically continued for 2 to 4 hours. Once the extraction is complete, the mixture is filtered to remove any plant residues. The solvent is then evaporated using a rotary evaporator or a water bath at a temperature range of 40–60°C to obtain the concentrated extract. The final extract is collected from the round-bottom flask, filtered again if necessary, and stored in a well-sealed container. For preservation, the extract should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its stability and effectiveness.

The figure shows how extraction process will conduct:

All process of extraction is conduct in Delight College of Pharmacy, Koregaon Bhima, Pune, Maharashtra, India.