Abstract
Introduction: Aging of the human body is a process influenced by numerous factors, both environmental and genetic. The initial signs can be observed as early as around the age of 25 and include slowed skin regeneration, the appearance of fine mimic wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and the formation of discolorations. Free radicals play a significant role in intensifying these processes, leading to a phenomenon known as oxidative stress. This condition refers to an imbalance between the presence of free radicals and the body’s ability to neutralize them. However, there are various compounds, including antioxidants, that restore balance in the body and prevent the oxidation of cellular structures, thus protecting them from damage. Compounds with antioxidant potential include various vitamins such as C, A, and E, polyphenols, flavonoids, and minerals. Considering the growing interest in natural origin cosmetics that could delay the aging process, this study aimed to investigate the antioxidant properties of root extracts from Rhodiola rosea, Arctium lappa, and Symphytum officinale. These plants have been used for centuries in traditional phytotherapy for various ailments, including skin conditions, yet in the field of cosmetology, they require more extensive research.
Materials and methods: Commercially available root extracts from R. rosea, A. lappa, and S. officinale were used to prepare the alcoholic extracts. Plant materials were subjected to ultrasound-assisted extraction for 15, 30, or 60 min, using methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, and isopropanol at concentrations of 40%, 70%, and 96/99%. The analysis and evaluation were conducted using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azinobis[3- ethyl-2,3-dihydrobenzothiazole-6-sulphonate] diammonium salt (ABTS) methods with a spectrophotometer, which allow the determination of the ability of plant extracts to neutralize free radicals.
Results: The highest antioxidant potential was observed in R. rosea extracts, particularly after 1-hour extraction using ethanol or methanol. Slightly lower activity was demonstrated by A. lappa extracts, and the lowest by S. officinale. The ABTS method proved to be more sensitive than DPPH, which may be related to the higher content of phenolic compounds.
Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that extraction time, type of solvent, and plant part are key factors for the effective recovery of antioxidants. The results suggest that the analyzed plants may constitute a valuable component of cosmetic formulations with protective and anti-aging properties for the skin.