Biologically Active Compounds in Stizolophus balsamita Inflorescences: Isolation, Phytochemical Characterization and Effects on the Skin Biophysical Parameters

Abstract

Three germacranolides, as well as five flavonoids, natural steroid and simple phenolic compounds, were isolated from the inflorescence of Stizolophus balsamita growing in Iran. The paper presents active compounds found for the first time in the inflorescence of this species. The flavonoids, simple phenolic compounds and natural steroids have been isolated for the first time in the genus Stizolophus. The MTT assay was employed to study in vitro cytotoxic effects of the taxifolin against human fibroblasts. We also evaluate the possible biological properties/cosmetic effects of Stizolophus balsamita extract and taxifolin on the human skin. Sixty healthy Caucasian adult females with no dermatological diseases were investigated. We evaluate the effects of S. balsamita extract and taxifolin on skin hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It was revealed that S. balsamita extract might decrease TEWL level and fixed the barrier function of the epidermis. The presence of bioactive phytochemical constituents in S. balsamita inflorescences makes them a valuable and safe source for creating new cosmetics and medicines.

Taxifolin as a Promising Ingredient of Cosmetics for Adult Skin

“…We have recently shown that S. balsamita extract, with TXF as the dominant flavonoid, might decrease transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and, in this way, fix the barrier function of the epidermis, which is its specific biological feature. We also confirmed the bio-safe nature of TXF to human fibroblasts [34].…”

“…In the present study, we extended our earlier research [32,34] on the interaction between the tested compounds and the skin barrier properties with non-invasive biophysical methods to measure skin color, melanin, erythema index, skin pH, skin-surface temperature, radiance, and viscoelasticity. First, we used the TEWL probe to measure water loss from the skin, reflecting the skin barrier's condition through its water-retaining ability [34].…”

“…Our previous study [34] indicated that SC hydration and TEWL (p = 0.005), a marker of the inside-outside barrier, were improved after using the 3% S. balsamita extract cream. The TXF and placebo creams lacked similar observations.…”

“…The plant was identified by our botanist based on the information from Flora Iranica [41] and Flora Europea [42]. The method of S. balsamita extraction and its phytochemical characterization was described in detail in our previous studies [32,34]. The pH value of S. balsamita extract was 4.5.…”

Recent Advances in Phytochemical-Based Topical Applications for the Management of Eczema: A Review

“…Moisturizing products such as ceramides and those made from hyaluronic acid-forming saccharide isomerates are used to retain moisture in the stratum corneum [25]. Notably, application of several phytochemicals studied in this review was followed by a reduction in TEWL and an improvement in hydration [26].…”