Spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. Spelta)– from Field to Cosmetics

Abstract

Plants have been intensively used as sources of biologically active compounds. Recently, the attention was directed to spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta) as a promising source of antioxidant compounds. In the present study, the antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of Triticum spelta glycerin extracts were determined. Three different extraction techniques were performed – conventional, microwave- and ultrasound- assisted extractions. Best polyphenol content and antioxidant activity were resulted when heat reflux extraction was applied. Moreover, nourishing and regenerating cream (NRC) formulation was prepared by incorporating 1 % glycerin spelt extract. The physicochemical stability of this formulation was assessed as well as sensory and skin penetration caracteristics.The cosmetic preparation exhibited good emulsion and colour stability at all temperature tested (-10 °C; 25 °C and 40 °C) during 90 days. 85 % of volunteers assessed the skin penetration of NRC as good. The same percentage claimed pleasant odor caracteristic after application on skin. Based on these results it can be concluded that spelt is a promissing source of biologically active substances with various applications.