Durian seed utilization as a base material of topical gel

Abstract

Objective: This research is aimed to investigate that durian seed gum is potential as an excipient in topical drug delivery. Durian seed gum is isolated from low-cost source and usually discarded. Methods: A certain amount of durian seed gum was isolated and characterized by scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and infrared spectrophotometer. The isolation method is divided into centrifuge and heating method, and the results of both methods are compared in their ability to form a gel and their evaluation. Results: The infrared spectra of durian seed gum by centrifugal method indicate the presence of-OH,-COOH,-CH groups, and the addition of C=O and ester groups on the heating method, i.e., at wave number 1726.22 cm−1. SEM-EDX shows the form of hollow surface particles, and the elements contained are C, O, K, Cl, and Mg. Durian seed gum of both methods formed a gel with boiling water at a concentration of 5% giving transparent and non-flowing results. Conclusion: Durian seed gum by the heating method is a low-methoxyl pectin compound because it is extracted at an alkaline pH. Durian seed gum can form a gel and complete the gel evaluation requirements.