Formulation and physical property testing of dragon's blood (Daemonorops draco) extract hydrogel plaster

Abstract

This research developed a hydrogel plaster formulation from jernang (dragon's blood) resin extract, building on traditional wound healing practices of the Suku Anak Dalam indigenous community in Jambi. Traditionally, jernang resin from ripe fruit is applied directly to injured skin areas for therapeutic purposes. The hydrogel delivery system offers advantages for wound management, including necrotic tissue removal, cooling sensation, reduced swelling, and accelerated healing through its semi-solid hydrophilic base suitable for topical application. Jernang resin extract was prepared through maceration using 96% ethanol, followed by phytochemical screening and hydrogel formulation. The extraction process yielded bioactive compounds subsequently tested for secondary metabolite content and formulated into hydrogel preparations. Physical property evaluations included organoleptic characteristics, weight uniformity, and thickness measurements. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, triterpenoids, tannins, and alkaloids, while saponins and steroids were absent. These bioactive compounds contribute to the wound healing properties attributed to jernang resin. Physical quality assessments revealed the hydrogel exhibited an unpleasant odor, dark reddish coloration, semi-solid consistency, pH 5.5, plaster thickness of 0.44 mm, and weight uniformity of 1.28 g. Results demonstrate that jernang resin ethanol extract can be successfully formulated into hydrogel preparations with acceptable physical quality parameters. The formulation shows promise for developing traditional medicinal knowledge into standardized pharmaceutical products for wound care applications.