A scientific study shows the antioxidant activity of Crucus sativus extract and its effect on human skin
Emulsions of plant extracts containing antioxidants have high potential as topical applications in the management of certain skin disorders, hence antioxidants of many plants are already being incorporated into heterogeneous system to achieve desirable cosmetic effects
In this study the antioxidant activity of Crocus sativus extract was determined using DPPH method. Water in oil (w/o) topical cream of C. sativus extract (3 %) was formulated and compared with the base (cream without extract). Both creams (formulation and base) were applied to the cheeks of 10 healthy human volunteers for a period of 8 weeks. Melanin and erythema values of skin were measured with a mexameter.
The result indicates that unlike the base, the formulation containing Crocus sativus extract produced significant depigmentation and anti erythemic effect on human skin.
The antioxidant activity of Crocus sativus is due to the presence of carotenoids, phenolics and flavonoids
Saffron also produces antiaging effects by decreasing melanogenesis by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase
Monoterpenoids, quercetin, kaempferol, and other phenolic components of saffron are responsible for this inhibition of melanogenesis.
A cream formulation containing Crocus sativus extract has significant depigmentation and antierythema effects on human skin due apparently to reduced melanin and erythema levels in the skin. Crocus sativus exhibits skin depigmentation effect due probably to the presence of strong antioxidants in the plant.
