Medicinal Potential of Curcuma caesia Roxb.: Phytochemical Composition and TLC Profile of Hydroalcoholic Rhizome Extract
Abstract
Curcuma caesia (black turmeric) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Southeast Asia for the treatment of various ailments, including inflammation and cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile and chromatographic characteristics of its hydroalcoholic rhizome extract to explore its anticancer potential. The rhizome extract was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening to identify major classes of bioactive compounds. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was performed using six different solvent systems of varying polarity to achieve comprehensive phytochemical profiling. Chromatograms were visualized under UV light (365 nm), and Rf values were calculated to assess compound diversity and migration behavior. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides. TLC profiling showed distinct separation patterns across all solvent systems, with the most effective resolution observed in Methanol:Ethyl Acetate (2:8) and Toluene:Ethyl Acetate (2:8) systems. A total of 69 phytoconstituent bands were detected across all chromatograms, with Rf values ranging from 0.08 to 0.94, indicating high chemical diversity. Bright fluorescent spots under UV light suggested the presence of conjugated aromatic compounds typical of phenolics and flavonoids. The study highlights the rich phytochemical composition and chromatographic complexity of Curcuma caesia rhizome extract, supporting its potential as a natural source of anticancer agents. The presence of biologically active compounds, especially flavonoids and terpenoids.
Keywords: Curcuma caesia, phytochemical screening, TLC profile, rhizome extract.
Keywords:
Curcuma caesia, phytochemical screening, TLC profile, rhizome extractDOI
https://doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v15i6.7181References
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