Formulation and evaluation of a wound healing ointment containing ethanol extract of the rhizomes of mango ginger (Curcuma amada)

Abstract

Wound healing is a vital biological process involving the restoration of damaged tissue through a series of cellular and molecular events. Herbal medicines have been traditionally used for wound care due to their safety, affordability, and therapeutic effectiveness. Curcuma amada Roxb. (Mango ginger), a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This study was undertaken to formulate a wound healing ointment containing ethanol extract of Curcuma amada Roxb. Rhizomes and evaluate its physicochemical properties. The rhizomes were collected, shade-dried, and extracted using the Soxhlet method with 70% ethanol. The prepared extract was incorporated into a topical ointment base and evaluated for parameters such as appearance, odor, pH, spreadability, viscosity, homogeneity, washability, and preliminary stability. The formulated ointment exhibited desirable characteristics, including smooth texture, uniform color, skin-compatible pH, and satisfactory stability. These findings support the traditional use of Curcuma amada Roxb. in wound management and suggest its potential for use in herbal topical formulations.