Curcuminoids loaded eutectic starch emulsion gel: rheology, stability, in-vitro release behavior and cytotoxicity

The work aimed to fabricate and characterize starch-based eutectic emulsion gel with curcuminoids. The study was also aimed at understanding the release behavior of curcumin and the toxicity of the gel. Curcuminoids were extracted from Curcuma caesia rhizome using a deep eutectic solvent composed of fructose and lactic acid. The extracted phytochemicals were integrated into a rice starch-based emulsion gel matrix, forming a biopolymer network via controlled thermal and high-speed homogenization processing. The physicochemical, functional, rheological, antimicrobial, and cytotoxicity properties of the emulsion gel were thoroughly characterized. Higher water holding capacity (19.26 %) and lower syneresis suggest a stronger gel network with better water entrapment. The curcuminoid extract significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the antioxidant capacity and retention of curcumin within the gel matrix. Rheological studies demonstrated viscoelastic behavior, suitable for functional food applications. The emulsion gel showed high antimicrobial activity but low cytotoxicity. These findings highlight the potential of eutectic emulsion gels as an innovative platform for the delivery of plant-derived bioactives, combining the functional attributes of starch and the therapeutic potential of Curcuma caesia.