The skin, which is the body’s largest organ, acts as a protective barrier against harmful substances and pathogens. Both internal and external factors influence its condition, with external factors including UV radiation, wind, humidity, air conditioning, physical damage, and microorganisms. Internal factors consist of genetics, medications, and diet. Daily use of cosmetics and skincare products can also affect skin health. These factors can accelerate skin aging by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which causes oxidative stress. This oxidative stress can lead to a decrease in skin elasticity and tensile strength, resulting in wrinkles and increased dryness. To minimize skin damage, it is important to reduce oxidative stress using antioxidants. This study explores the use of fenugreek seeds, which contain compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids, as a natural source of antioxidants for cosmetic formulations. Fenugreek seeds have demonstrated anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, the active compound epicatechin is known to protect skin cells from free radicals, preventing premature aging. The study optimizes the extraction of these compounds from fenugreek seeds using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), a method known for its efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
Methods
The study utilized ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) to extract antioxidants from fenugreek seeds, using a hydro-ethanolic solvent mixture. The extraction parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with three independent variables: ultrasonic power, ethanol concentration, and extraction time. The total phenolic content (TPC) and DPPH free radical scavenging activity were measured. The extract was then incorporated into a cosmetic cream. Stability testing was performed under varying temperatures, and sensory analysis was conducted.
Key Findings
• Optimization of Extraction: Using RSM, the optimal extraction conditions were found to be 60% ultrasonic power, 50% ethanol concentration, and a 10-minute extraction time8…. Under these conditions, the extract yielded a total phenolic content of 18.56 mg GAE/g DM and a radical scavenging activity of 63.24%.
•Phenolic Composition: Chromatographic analysis identified epicatechin as the major phenolic compound at a concentration of 22.58 mg/g DM. Other significant compounds included catechin, vanillic acid, myricetin, and luteolin.
• Biological Activities: The fenugreek extract exhibited antibacterial activity against several bacterial strains, including Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium. The extract showed no cell toxicity on RAW 267.4 cells….
• Anti-inflammatory Activity: The study showed a dose-dependent reduction in nitrite production in macrophage cells treated with the extract. This indicates significant anti-inflammatory activity.
• Cosmetic Formulation: The cosmetic cream formulation was stable with pH values ranging from 6.25 to 6.35 and viscosity values from 7941.69 to 7956.70 cp. Color changes were minimal after 90 days of preservation under varied temperatures. Sensory analysis revealed high scores for color, fragrance, texture, spreadability, stickiness, and absorption.
This study successfully optimized the extraction of bioactive compounds from fenugreek seeds, demonstrating their potential for use in cosmetic formulations. The research highlights the novelty of using fenugreek extract as a multifunctional ingredient with significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The stable cosmetic formulation developed with this extract suggests its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic ingredients in skincare products.
Future implications include further in vivo testing and scaling up production to enhance the relevance of these findings for commercial applications. This research paves the way for the development of effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly skincare products.
Link to the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/12/1/21
