Formulation Containing Phytosomes of Crocin-Rich Extract from Nyctanthes arbor-tristis and Petroselinic Acid from Coriandrum sativum seeds Exhibits Sunscreen and Moisturizing Effects

Abstract

Background: Orange coloured tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis can be utilized as a substitute for saffron due to the presence of crocin, an apocarotenoid, which can act as a sun-screen agent. Petroselinic acid is reported to have a moisturizing effect on the skin. Objective: To utilize the tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor- tristis as an economical source of crocin and Coriandrum sativum seed oil as a source of petroselinic acid for the development of a stable phytosomal gel formulation and to evaluate its sunscreen and moisturizing activities. Methodology: Phytosomes of standardized crocin-rich extract and petroselinic acid were prepared separately by lipid film hydration technique. The phytosomes were then incorporated into a gel base prepared from dehydroxanthan gum, and it was evaluated for in-vitro sunscreen activity by using Mansur’s equation. Moisturizing effect of the phytosomal gel was evaluated on 10 healthy female volunteers with their informed consent, and the water content of the stratum corneum was measured by using a Digital Moisture detector pen before and 5 hours later the application of the gel. Results: Mean initial moisture content of the skin was found to be 30.08 %, which was signifi-cantly (P < 0.05) raised to 45.59% at the end of 5 hours. Sun Protection Factor was found to be 15.09 and with a Boot Star rating of 2. Conclusion: Entrapping the phytoconstituents in vesicles increased stability, and the formulation was found to have moderate protection and a good moisturizing effect on the skin.