Determination Of Phytochemical, Antioxidant And Antimicrobial Properties Of Perilla Frutescens Var.Crispa For Cosmetic Applications.

Abstract

The skin, as the outermost layer of the body, constitutes a vital organ. In contemporary times, the majority of cosmetic products are synthetically formulated, incorporating various chemicals owing to technological advancements. This study aims to investigate a formulation enhancing physical properties through the utilization of natural components, specifically, P.frutescens leaves. These leaves are known to contain bioactive phenolic chemicals with robust antioxidant capabilities. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in safeguarding damaged cells, promoting collagen formation, and maintaining optimal hyaluronic acid levels in the skin. The primary objectives of this research encompass evaluating the effects of different ethanol concentrations, serving as an extraction solvent, on HPLC analysis, total phenolic and flavonoid content, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and other pertinent parameters. Ethanol, ranging in concentrations of 50%, 70%, and 90% (absolute ethanol), was employed as the extraction solvent. Additionally, cosmetic assessments were conducted by comparing P.frutescens serum samples at varying concentrations with a base serum formula. Initial physicochemical properties assessed included the formulation's physical appearance, pH, spreadability, and hydration capacity. Results indicated that the P. frutescens extract obtained from a 90% ethanol solvent exhibited the highest levels of total flavonoids (19.97 ± 0.36 mgQE/g) and total phenolics (49.57±1.75 mgGAE/g). Through High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), the contents of rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, luteolin, and apigenin were determined to be 7.11, 0.115, 0.034, and 0.014 mg/g DW, respectively. Moreover, the P.frutescens extract from 70% ethanol demonstrated the highest ability to scavenge DPPH free radicals (43.77 ± 1.86 μg/mL) and outperformed other ethanol concentrations in antibacterial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 7.5 to 12.5 µg/ml, and disc diffusion method values ranged from 10 to 13mm. As the concentration in the serum recipe increased, noticeable effects on the skin were observed due to P. frutescens' moisturizing capacity. Given the extract's robust antioxidant capacity, total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and moisturizing ability, further exploration into the potential cosmetic applications of P.frutescens is warranted.