Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Analysis of a Curcumin-Loaded Lecithin-Coconut Oil-Based Emulgel for Enhanced Burn Management.

Background: Curcumin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, offering potential benefits in burn management. Coconut oil has also been reported to possess skin-moisturizing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to develop and evaluate curcumin-loaded coconut oil-based emulgel formulations to improve therapeutic outcomes in burn management.

Methods: Eight emulgel formulations (F1-F8) were prepared using lecithin, hyaluronic acid, and coconut oil. The formulations were assessed for organoleptic properties (color, smell, texture, phase separation) and physicochemical characteristics, including pH (5.40-6.35), viscosity (3840-5369 cps), spreadability (7-8 cm), drug content (82-95%), and in vitro drug release (88-93%). Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze the structural characteristics. Drug release kinetics were evaluated using the Hixson-Crowell model.

Results: The formulations exhibited a bi-continuous system with a three-dimensional network structure. The developed formulations were evaluated for pH (5.40-6.35), viscosity (3840-5369 cps), spreadability (7-8 cm), drug content (82-95%), and in vitro drug release (88-93%) over 24 hours which showed promising result for topical delivery. Among the formulations, F3 demonstrated the highest drug release, whereas F8 exhibited the highest viscosity and drug content. The emulgel also provided cooling, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, supporting wound healing and pain relief.

Conclusion: The developed Curcumin-loaded coconut oil-based emulgel shows promise for burn management, offering enhanced topical drug delivery and therapeutic benefits. These findings support further research to optimize formulation parameters for improved clinical outcomes.