The potential application of some novel essential oils as natural cosmetic preservatives in an aqueous cream formulation

Abstract

The use of essential oils in the production of cosmetics and related products may have several advantages, such as enhancing the dermato-cosmetic properties and preservation, as well as the marketing image of the final product. The use of botanical materials such as essential oils in cosmetic formulations at relatively high concentrations is likely to provide skin benefit. The potential of essential oils indigenous to the tropical and subtropical part of Africa has not been sufficiently exploited in this regard. Using a challenge test, this study demonstrates the potential application of two South African indigenous plant essential oils, viz. Artemisia afra and Pteronia incana oils, and oils of two Mediterranean aromatic plants grown in South Africa, viz. Lavandula officinalis, and Rosmarinus officinalis, to be used as natural cosmetic preservatives in an aqueous cream formulation. Except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, the oils displayed remarkable antimicrobial activities against all common test organisms (including bacteria and fungi) and environmental isolates used. All the test microorganisms used in this study were generally more susceptible to the oils during the challenge test in aqueous cream compared to the antimicrobial test performed on agar. The results indicate, therefore, that the oils can be recommended as candidate natural cosmetic preservatives. Artemisia afra oil was the most efficient in reducing the load of artificial contaminations in the aqueous cream formulation within 2-7 days. Since relatively high concentrations of the oils were used, the oils could at the same time serve as natural fragrances in aqueous cream, in addition to assuring protection against microbial contamination.

Essential Oils and Herbal Extracts as Antimicrobial Agents in Cosmetic Emulsion

“…The 1 and 2 % (v/v) Calamintha officinalis essential oil added to two product types O/W cream and shampoo also inhibited growth of tested bacteria and fungi alone and as mixed culture [18]. Lavandulla officinallis and Rosmarinus officinalis oils (1.5 %) in an aqueous cream formulation displayed remarkable antimicrobial activities against all common test organisms (including bacteria and fungi) and environmental isolates used [21]. Mixture of different extracts and essential oils can very effectively inhibit the growth of microorganisms at a much broader spectrum of activity and replace or significantly reduce the amount of synthetic preservatives added to cosmetics.…”

Application of essential oils as natural cosmetic preservatives

“…A study on artemisia afra, Pteronia incana, lavandula officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis essential oils demonstrated the efficacy in reducing microbial contamination in aqueous cream formulation [52]. The population of tested microorganisms was markedly limited and controlled (criterion A and B) in the challenge test up to 7 th day.…”

Encapsulation and Co-Precipitation Processes with Supercritical Fluids: Applications with Essential Oils

“…Different coating materials have been used in encapsulation techniques, including gums, starches, gelatines and polymers. Most commonly used wall materials for essential oil encapsulations are octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) Artemisia afra, Pteronia incana oils, Lavandula officinalis, and Rosmarinus officinalis Preservatives in aqueous cream formulation [5] Australian tea tree oil Recurrent herpes labialis [6] Basil Tratment for acne [7] Blend of the spices Capsicum, Cinamon, anise and oregano oil Feed complement for piglets [8] Chamomile Treatment of inflammatory dermatoses [9] Chamomile Insect bite, dry skin, sunburn, acne and psoriasis [10] Cinnamon, clove Yoghurt conservation [11] Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Origanum vulgare (origanum), Teloxys ambrosioides (the flavoring herb epazote), Syrygium aromaticum (clove), and Thymus vulgaris (thyme)…”