Quality Evaluation of Gold Nanoparticles Containing Temulawak (Curcuma Xanthorrhiza) Extract

Abstract

Background: Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) possesses significant therapeutic potential but is limited by poor water solubility and instability. Green synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) offers a biocompatible solution to enhance these properties. However, determining the quality profile of these nanoparticles is essential to ensure their suitability for pharmaceutical use. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the quality of AuNPs containing Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract (C-AuNPs) by analyzing their physical and physicochemical characteristics. Method: Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract was prepared by maceration using warm distilled water (40°C) and used for AuNP synthesis with Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) as a stabilizer. The synthesized C-AuNPs were characterized using visual observation, UV–Vis spectrophotometry, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)–Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Result: The synthesized C-AuNPs showed a color change from slightly yellowish to reddish-purple and exhibited Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) characteristics in UV–Vis analysis. Among the tested formulations, F1 showed better stability, with %T values decreasing from 80.2% at week 0 to 76.1% at week 4, while F2 and F3 exhibited aggregation during storage. PSA analysis showed particle sizes ranging from 107.6–132.8 nm with PDI values below 0.7 and zeta potential values ranging from −14.9 mV to −35.4 mV. SEM analysis revealed predominantly spherical nanoparticles, while EDS confirmed Au as the dominant element. FTIR analysis identified several functional groups associated with biomolecules from Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract. Conclusion: The synthesized C-AuNPs demonstrated distinct physical and physicochemical characteristics. Among the tested formulations, F1 exhibited the most favorable quality profile and stability compared to F2 and F3.