CHROMATOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF CURCUMA LONGA EXTRACT
Abstract
This research investigates the extraction and chromatographic profiling of curcumin, the major
bioactive constituent of Curcuma Longa (turmeric), using three different solvent systems: n
hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), and methanol. The study aims to evaluate how solvent polarity
affects the yield and composition of turmeric extracts. Extraction was conducted using Soxhlet
apparatus, and the resulting samples were analyzed using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and
Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The TLC results revealed distinct compound
separation profiles across the solvents, with methanol extracts displaying sharper and more defined
spots due to better solubility of Curcuma Longa. FTIR analysis suggested the presence of
functional groups characteristic of turmeric such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, and ether groups.
Methanol proved to be the most effective solvent, suggesting a higher quantity of Curcuma Longa.
DCM showed moderate efficacy, while n-hexane was the least effective due to its non-polar nature.
The findings underscore the significance of solvent selection in optimizing extraction processes
and suggest methanol as a preferred solvent for Curcuma Longa. Isolation. These results can
inform future pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and food-based applications of turmeric extracts.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.