Natural extracts with antimicrobial properties present viable alternatives to the addition of synthetic preservatives in cosmetic products. Certain synthetic preservatives are banned in cosmetic products due to their adverse impact on human health or their potential to trigger allergic reactions. In the European Union (EU), these restricted substances are subject to regulation by the European Commission.
Achyrocline satureioides, a South American herb with a rich history in traditional medicine for treating a wide array of ailments, has garnered significant attention in various studies. These investigations have substantiated its positive influence on human health, particularly in terms of its healing and antimicrobial attributes. The study published in Plants assessed the antimicrobial efficacy of the hydroalcoholic extract of A. satureioides against Escherichia coli ATCC10536, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC12228, and Lactobacillus acidophilus INCQS00076. Additionally, authors conducted cytotoxicity tests on human HaCaT keratinocytes, revealing highly favorable effects on keratinocyte proliferation and renewal. The HPLC and GC-MS analyses revealed that the lyophilized extract contained only negligible amounts of fragrance allergens. This extract was then incorporated into two cosmetic formulations, one of which displayed a significant synergistic interaction with other cosmetic constituents.
The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the hydroalcoholic extract substantiated previous research findings. However, it is important to note that due to the extract’s potent antimicrobial effect on L. acidophilus, its use in feminine hygiene products is discouraged. Nonetheless, when suitably combined with other emulsion components, the extract’s antimicrobial effectiveness against the tested bacteria was amplified. This suggests the potential to reduce the quantity of preservatives required to ensure the microbiological stability of the cosmetic product. Furthermore, the robust antimicrobial activity of A. satureioides extract can be considered an additional biological benefit. Importantly, this hydroalcoholic extract did not exhibit any toxic effects on keratinocytes; instead, it demonstrated favorable impacts on cell proliferation and renewal. HPLC analysis further substantiated that the extract lacked any fragrance allergens, significantly lowering the risk of potential allergic reactions to this cosmetic product component. GC-MS analysis did detect trace amounts of fragrance allergens, but these concentrations are deemed inconsequential from a legislative standpoint.
In conclusion, the hydroalcoholic extract of A. satureioides could serve as a secure and hypoallergenic natural preservative for use in cosmetic products. Researchers propose the utilization of A. satureioides hydroalcoholic extract as a suitable natural antimicrobial component in cosmetic formulations, thereby replacing conventional preservatives that may cause skin irritation. This extract not only fulfills a preservative role but also possesses distinctive biological activity.
