Medicines and cosmetics based on natural products have been in demand since ancient times. This study aimed to compare extracts and fractions of T. aculeata, obtained by different extraction methods, in addition to evaluating the antioxidant, antibacterial and photoprotective capacity of the samples. The chemical differentiation of the content different extracts and fractions were evaluated using statistical programs and the levels of phenolic compounds and tannins were evaluated using spectroscopic methods. The results of the statistical analysis showed greater similarity in the extracts obtained by the infusion and decoction methods. The toxicity assay by Artemia Salina showed that the aqueous extracts obtained by all methodologies are non-toxic, promising for its use as a cosmetic, and antioxidant activity was more evident for the fractions. Broad-spectrum antibacterial activity was attributed to both extracts and fractions. In order to obtain a sustainable photoprotective product, the aqueous extracts were selected and incorporated into a commercial cream in order to obtain a multifunctional product, the aqueous extract obtained by the infusion method being the one that presented the best sun protection factor results (17.27), with good results of stability.
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