Encapsulation of Kecombrang (Etlingera elatior) Flowers Extract Using the Ionic Gelation Method

Abstract

The extract flower of Etlingera elatior (kecombrang) is one of herb interested for research. This flower known to have a beneficial antioxidant activity. This antioxidant effect was obtained as a results of high flavonoid content. Photosensitivity and low bioavailability and their fast metabolism were the main limitations for its use, which can be overcome through encapsulation of the extract (flavonoids) into nanoparticle-based chitosan-tripolyphosphate by ionic gelation method. This is an observational study aims to encapsulate kecombrang flowers extract that is already form in nanoextract and assess the characterization. The nanoparticle extract of this flower obtained has a particle size of 312.7 nm with a zeta potential of -16.2 mV and a polydispersity index value of 0.502, amorphous (non-uniform) morphology, has a tendency to be spherical, and has an imperfectly spherical shape, has functional groups -OH, -NH, C=O, and a phosphate group. Overall Kecombrang flowers extract is able to be encapsulated in chitosantripolyphosphate.